Abstract

Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) is a vital food and cash crop in Pakistan, with Punjab accounting for over 75% of national production. District Okara is a major potato-growing region; however, bacterial wilt caused by Ralstonia solanacearum poses a serious threat, leading to yield losses of 30–80%. This study examined the influence of farmers’ management practices on the prevalence and spread of bacterial wilt. Further, it measured the spatial distribution of potato bacterial wilt in the study area. A total of 225 farmers were surveyed using a structured questionnaire. Results revealed that 39.6% of farmers did not use certified seeds and relied on seed saved from previous crops, and 49.8% used flood irrigation; the practices favoured the spread of Ralstonia solanacearum. The overall disease prevalence was 60%, with the highest recorded in Village G (78.38%). Statistical analyses showed significant associations between disease incidence and farm practices, including seed source (p = 0.001), crop rotation (p = 0.000), irrigation method (p = 0.002), and field sanitation (p = 0.000). Access to extension services (?² = 25.12; p = 0.000) strongly influenced the adoption of recommended practices. These findings underscore the urgent need for integrated disease management strategies, farmer education, and improved access to certified seed to reduce disease spread and enhance sustainable potato production.