Plants showing symptoms of sudden wilt and bronzing during fruit development show extensive root deterioration caused by Agrobacterium biovar 1 isolates. Methods for evaluating cultivar resistance to this disease are described. The bacterium appears to interfere with uptake of nutrient anions (phosphate and sulfate). Consequently, the disease can be largely controlled by fertilizers containing phosphate and sulfate, providing that excess nitrogen is avoided. Biological control of this disease also may be possible.