Anthracnose is one of the most dangerous diseases affecting avocado and mango crops, causing significant damage if not controlled. With the right preventive measures and timely action, you can protect your crops and ensure a healthy harvest. In this article, we’ll explore how to identify the signs of anthracnose and the best strategies for controlling its spread. Don’t let this destructive disease take over your crops—read on to safeguard your investment.
Causal Agent
The causal agent of anthracnose is Colletotrichum gleosporioides. This fungal pathogen thrives in very humid conditions and temperatures ranging from 25 to 30 degrees Celsius, significantly affecting the severity of the infection. Additionally, rainfall in the spring can create ideal conditions for the disease to spread.
Symptoms
- Initial Infection Signs: One of the earliest signs of infection is the spread of the fungus, which manifests as small black spots on affected tissues.
- Spread of Infection: If left uncontrolled, these spots grow and expand, covering the entire surface of the stalk. This results in flower drop and prevents the development of fruits.
- Leaf Symptoms: On leaves, anthracnose presents as dark black spots surrounded by a yellow halo.
- Fruit Symptoms: On the fruit, symptoms include burns and irregular black sores.
- Severe Infection: In cases of severe infection, the affected fruits may fall off the tree prematurely.
Prevention and Control
- Cultivate Resistant Varieties: Selecting resistant varieties is one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of anthracnose.
- Prune and Ventilate Tree Canopy: Regular pruning and improving air circulation in the tree canopy helps reduce the humidity levels where the fungus thrives. Additionally, consistently collecting and removing plant residues from the soil minimizes fungal spores.
- Chemical Control: Use of fungicides like Cuprocaffaro (500 g/barrel), Luna Sensation (70 ml/barrel), and Nativo (70 g/barrel) can help control anthracnose. These should be alternated for better effectiveness.
- Application Timing: Begin spraying the trees as soon as the first signs of disease appear, and repeat the application every two weeks for continued protection.
By following these preventive measures and control methods, growers can significantly reduce the impact of anthracnose on avocado and mango crops, ensuring better yield and fruit quality.