In recent years, the area dedicated to bitter gourd cultivation has been steadily increasing, but with this growth comes a rising concern: the widespread occurrence of bitter gourd fruit rot disease, which poses a serious threat to both yield and quality. This disease is not only common but also highly destructive, often leading to significant economic losses for farmers.
Bitter gourd phytophthora disease primarily affects the fruit, especially those that are mature or nearly mature. Infected areas typically appear wet and slimy, with visible signs of mildew. Once the fruit is infected, the affected part rapidly expands, eventually causing the entire fruit to rot. The disease progresses quickly, leading to softening and decay, making the fruit unsuitable for market.
The disease cycle begins with the survival of the pathogen in the soil through its mycelium, chlamydospores, and oospores during the winter months. In the following season, these overwintering structures produce spore sacs, which are then spread by wind, rain, irrigation water, and other means. The disease develops quickly due to its short incubation period. It thrives in warm and humid conditions, with an optimal temperature range of 25 to 28°C and relative humidity above 90%. These favorable conditions can lead to rapid outbreaks if not managed properly.
To effectively control this disease, a comprehensive approach should be adopted. First, proper irrigation practices are essential—avoid flooding and ensure timely drainage after two rounds of watering. In heavily infested fields, crop rotation with non-cucurbit vegetables can significantly reduce disease incidence. Additionally, timely harvesting helps prevent over-ripening, which can increase susceptibility to infection.
Chemical control is also an important strategy. Early detection and prompt application of fungicides are crucial. Recommended treatments include 25% metalaxyl WP diluted 1000 times, 75% Shiderer-cho wettable powder at 800–1000 times dilution, 77% copper oxychloride wettable powder at 600 times, or 58% metalaxyl-manganese zinc wettable powder at 500 times. It's advisable to rotate these products to prevent resistance and achieve better disease control.
By combining cultural, biological, and chemical methods, farmers can significantly reduce the impact of bitter gourd fruit rot and protect their crops from this devastating disease.
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