Fungal disease control: Chamba KVK issues advisory for apple farmers

The Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Chamba, of has issued a comprehensive chemical control advisory to apple growers in the district to prevent spread of Marssonina blotch, a fungal disease. Caused by Diplocarpon mali, the disease has been increasingly affecting orchards in Holi, Bharmour, Mehla and Sidhkund areas. Commonly observed during the monsoon season, it causes premature leaf fall and significantly deteriorates fruit quality, leading to major economic losses if not controlled in time.

“Timely and scientific disease control is essential to minimise damage and protect the fruit quality,” said Dr Dharminder Kumar, senior scientist and head of KVK, Chamba.

Dr Jaya Chaudhary, plant pathologist, emphasised that along with chemical control, orchard hygiene and proper pruning are equally important to suppress the disease. She advised that regular removal of weeds and grasses from around the trees helps maintain airflow and reduces the humidity that favors fungal infection. For chemical control, she recommended a systematic spray schedule tailored to the developmental stage of the apple crop.

At the early stage, when the fruit is walnut-sized, farmers should apply either Fluxapyroxad 250 g/l + Pyraclostrobin 250 g/l SC (500 SC) at a dose of 50 ml per 200 liters of water, or Fluopyram 17.7% + Tebuconazole 17.7% SC at 126 ml per 200 liters. Alternatively, Dodine 40% SC at 150 ml per 200 liters could be used.

During the fruit development stage, sprays should be applied every 18 to 21 days using alternating fungicides such as Tebuconazole 50% + Trifloxystrobin 25% WG at 80 gm per 200 litres, Mancozeb 60% + Pyraclostrobin 5% WG at 700 gm per 200 litres, or Metiram 70% WG at 600 gm per 200 litres.

As the harvest approaches, around 20 to 25 days before picking, farmers are advised to apply either Ziram 80% WP or Hexaconazole 4% + Zineb 68% WP, both at 500 ml per 200 litres of water. “It is crucial that farmers strictly follow the recommended doses and spray intervals,” said Dr Jaya Chaudhary. “This not only ensures effective disease control but also minimises the risk of chemical residues on the fruits.” Farmers have been advised to remain in contact with KVK for further guidance and support, especially during the monsoon period when the disease pressure is high.