The lower leaf scars are surrounded by dark brown lesions, and the stem becomes hollow and water-soaked. The cortex sloughs off easily. As infection advances, the whole plant wilts and collapses.
The disease is particularly prevalent along rows beneath the roof gutters, where high humidity and free water on the plants are more likely to occur The bacterium may be present in the soil and can be splashed onto deleafing wounds by drips from the roof; it can also be carried in irrigation water from wells and outside reservoirs. The bacterium spreads by contact with contaminated hands and tools.
