Verticillium dahliae is a soil-borne fungus that causes wilt disease in a variety of plants, including crops like cotton, tomatoes, and potatoes. It infects plants through their roots and can survive in the soil for many years, making it a persistent threat to agriculture. The fungus produces spores that spread through water, soil, and infected plant debris. Once inside a plant, it blocks water and nutrient transport, leading to wilting, yellowing leaves, and ultimately plant death. Effective management strategies include crop rotation, resistant plant varieties, and proper soil management practices.