Effects of soil moisture on the development of Fusarium wilt and microbial community in rhizospheric soil of Chrysanthemum morifolium in continuous cropping fields

Fusarium wilt is a devastating disease that significantly impacts the cultivation of Chrysanthemum morifolium. Soil moisture significantly affects soil microbiomes and Fusarium dynamics, yet its role in soil microbiomes regulation and Fusarium infection promotion remains poorly understood in continuous cropping fields. This study assessed the incidence of Fusarium wilt, enzyme activity, and microbial community composition in low-moisture field (LMF) and high-moisture field (HMF) in long-term continuous cropping areas of C. morifolium. Agronomic and quality metrics were analyzed during the harvest season. Pot experiments were conducted to examine the effects of soil moisture on beneficial microorganisms and Fusarium proliferation, as well as Fusarium infection ability in C. morifolium.