Colletotrichum > Identify, Control & Disease Prevention Tips

Colletotrichum

Colletotrichum is a genus of fungi of the Glomerellaceae family known since 1831.

Colletotrichum causes significant damage to agricultural crops. Among the crops it affects most are beans, peas, beans, soybeans, corn, watermelons, melons, and lupins, leading to huge crop losses. To a lesser extent, it affects pumpkins and cucumbers. Weakened citrus plants can also be in danger.

The infection damages fruits, leaves, and cuttings. The incubation period is 3-4 days at a temperature of 72-81°F (22-27°C) and a humidity of 90%. The causative agent overwinters on the remains of plants. Seeds obtained from infected plants also carry the infection. From year to year, the infection remains in diseased trees and fallen leaves, carrying the infection and seeds.

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Signs of damage

First of all, dark yellowish spots appear on the plant organs, then depressed ulcers;
A copper-pink layer of fungal spores develops on the surface of the ulcers;
Brown cracked spots with a reddish edge are visible all over the pods, leaves, and stems;
These spots of dead tissue with black dots located in concentric circles on the leaves;
In wet weather, the spots look healed, but with the coming of dry weather, they crack again;
Fruits become bitter when spots appear on them;
The branches dry up;
The affected organs die fast.

How to prevent

For the intensive development of most diseases, the presence of droplet moisture is necessary, as well as a certain range of air temperature and humidity. Colletotrichum is not an exception. To prevent the fungus, scientists emphasize the need for the selection of plants with genetic resistance.

In humid weather, in particular, at an air humidity of more than 60%, the spores germinate quickly. But the infection would not occur at lower humidity, such as 50%. In terms of temperatures, the disease develops best at a temperature of 59-66°F (15–19°С).

The correct approach to plant protection is preventive treatments with fungicides.

Heal

Forecasting the development of diseases and their timely and correct diagnosis in combination with effective fungicidal protection can significantly increase the level of the final yield. With this in mind, the construction of a disease protection scheme should be approached comprehensively.

So far, the fighting tactics remains the same as for any fungal disease. Remove infected fruit and branches to reduce the spread of the disease from season to season and utilize fungicide protection.

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