Ralstonia solanacearum and Xanthomonas perforans as Causal Agents of Bacterial Disease of Tomato

ABSTRACT Tomatoes are produced worldwide, and in South Africa, they are cultivated in all provinces. The most destructive tomato diseases are bacterial spot, caused by Xanthomonas spp., and bacterial wilt caused by Ralstonia solanacearum . Over the years, different strategies have been employed to control tomato disease. The disadvantage of chemical pesticides is that they alter microbial communities and sometimes remain on food commodities. Recently, studies have been conducted on biological control agents in the hope of eventually replacing the use of chemical pesticides. Some studies have discovered potential biological control agents for bacterial diseases. Better insight into host‐pathogen interaction will help develop better disease management strategies. This review provides insights into plant diseases caused by Ralstonia and Xanthomonas and how they are managed.