The application of benomyl (Benlate),* methyl 1-(butyl-carbamoyl)-2-benzimidazole-carbamate, to infested soils controlled populations of the wilt Fusarium (F. oxysporum f. melonis), reduced wilt losses to low levels, and permitted a harvest to be taken. Powdery mildew (Erysiphe cichoracearum) was also inhibited. In pot culture the compound was effective in single or split applications of 0.08 g active material and in a single application of 0.16 g or 4 applications of 0.04 g each per 1000 g soil. At the above rates Benlate prevented increases in populations of the pathogen in soil planted with susceptible melons. In the field, three applications of 0.64 g each/0.09 m2 (11.49 kg/ha), or one application of either 1.28 g (7.66 kg/ha), or 2.56 g (15.32 kg/ha) controlled wilt. Treatments that controlled wilt also retarded early growth and delayed the onset of fruiting. Recovery was made, however, followed by a prolonged period of growth and fruit production.