Leaf Spot Disease in Jackfruit: Follow these strict measures to effectively manage leaf spot disease in jackfruit

Leaf Spot Disease in Jackfruit: Because of its nutritional richness and economic significance, jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus), a fruit crop that is produced extensively in India, is favored in tropical and subtropical climates. However, this crop is susceptible to several illnesses, the most common of which is leaf spot disease.

Numerous fungal infections are the primary cause of this illness, which results in leaf spots and reduces agricultural output. This disease may hinder plant development and decrease fruiting capacity if it is not managed in a timely manner.

Principal causes of the illness

Fungal infection is the primary cause of jackfruit leaf spot disease. The primary microorganisms that cause this illness are

• Colletotrichum species.
• Cercospora species.
• Cornespora species.
• Alternaria species.

These infections spread due to a variety of circumstances, including…

• 80–90% high humidity
• climate that is hot and humid (25–35°C)
• Waterlogging and constant rains
• Poor ventilation
• Poor farming practices and contaminated planting materials

Jackfruit Leaf Spot Disease Symptoms

At first, the disease’s symptoms seem mild, but with time, they may become more severe.

1. The first phase

The leaves have tiny brown or black dots.

The patches could have a faint golden tint.

2. Mild infection

The patches enlarge and begin to blend together.

The plant’s ability to perform photosynthesis is impacted when the chlorophyll in the impacted leaves is destroyed.

3. A serious infection

The leaves begin to wilt and drop off too soon.

The plants cease growing, which has a negative impact on jackfruit output.

Management strategies that work

To control leaf spot disease, integrated disease management, or IPM, is required. This tactic combines chemical, biological, and cultural control.

1. Cultural actions

Cutting back

Regularly remove the diseased leaves and branches. To ensure good air circulation, maintain the right spacing between the plants.

• Crop residue management and sanitation
• Take the sickly leaves out of the field and dispose of them.
• Keep water from standing still on the field.

Balanced use of fertilizer

Provide a balanced supply of potash, phosphorus, and nitrogen. To keep the plants healthy, use biofertilizers.

Interplanting

The illness may be stopped from spreading by planting jackfruit alongside crops like turmeric or ginger.

2. Control by biology

Utilizing advantageous microorganisms

Pseudomonas fluorescens and Trichoderma viride are useful in inhibiting the infections.

Biofungicides

Apply fungicides derived from bio-extracts such as garlic, neem, and others.

3. Handling of chemicals

Appropriate fungicides may be applied if the disease is severe.

Fungicides based on copper

Apply 1% Bordeaux mixture or 0.3% copper oxychloride.

Fungicide contact

Apply either chlorothalonil (2 g/liter of water) or mancozeb 75% WP (2–2.5 g/liter of water).

Fungicides in the System

Apply 0.1 percent carbendazim and 0.1 percent propiconazole.

Combination Pesticides

Spray Hexaconazole (0.1%) + Mancozeb (0.2%) + Carbendazim.

Schedule for Spraying

• First Spray: When the illness first manifests.
• Second Spray: Ten to fifteen days later.
• Third Spray: When necessary.

4. Resistant Varieties Selection

• Make use of disease-resistant cultivars.
• Use healthy planting material when you plant.

5. Early Intervention and Monitoring

• Conduct weekly inspections and, should any signs appear, take prompt corrective action.
• Keep an eye on the weather and use caution when it’s humid.