Prevalence of Bacterial Wilt Disease Caused by Ralstonia solanacearum in Tomatoes within Meru South Sub-County

Abstract

Tomato (Solanum lycopersicon) is among the most consumed vegetables across the globe. In most parts of Kenya, tomato production is characterized by low quality and huge losses due to pests and diseases. The most prevelance tomato diseases are caused by bacteria and fungi, most common being bacterial wilt. This study determined the prevalence of Ralstonia solanacearum in tomato farms in Meru South sub-county. The Prevalence of bacterial wilt was carried out by conducting a survey across agroecological zones in Meru South. Study farms were randomly selected. Data on the frequency of occurrence, severity, and impacts of the disease were collected by observation and administration of questionnaires to the farmers. The study broadens the understanding of R. solancaerum prevalence in Meru South sub-county.