Certainly, here is an article on coral spot in chilli:
Coral Spot: A Common Fungal Disease in Chillies
Chilli peppers are widely cultivated and highly valued for their unique hot flavor and nutritional value. They are also susceptible to various fungal diseases which can reduce yields, affect crop quality, and compromise plant health. One of the most common fungal diseases in chillies is coral spot, caused by the fungus Nectria cinnabarina. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at coral spot and how to manage it.
Symptoms and Signs of Coral Spot
Coral spot is a destructive fungal disease that affects the stems and branches of chilli plants. It is characterized by the presence of small, bright red to orange, coral-like structures called sporodochia on infected plant tissues. These structures are the fruiting bodies of the fungus and are visible to the naked eye. The sporodochia produce spores that can spread the disease to healthy plants. Coral spot also causes lesions or cankers on the stems, which can lead to stem girdling and eventual plant death. The infected tissues may also become dry, cracked, and bark may be lost.
Causes of Coral Spot
Coral spot typically occurs in damp or humid conditions when the plants are stressed due to poor nutrition, waterlogged soils, injury or other underlying diseases such as root rot. The fungus can infect any part of the plant that is wounded, such as pruning cuts, insect feeding or damage from environmental factors such as frost. In botanic gardens, pits are prone to sandy planting mixes, over potting, and exposed roots which can be exacerbated by immersion in wet pits and in pool environments with continuous splashing.
Prevention and Control of Coral Spot
Preventing coral spot infection is critical to maintaining healthy, productive chilli plants. Proper plant care is the best way to prevent coral spot from infecting chillies. Maintaining sufficient spacing between plants is essential to reduce humidity; providing good drainage to minimize soil moisture; avoiding overwatering; establishing robust and fast-drop roots. Avoiding injuries to the plant by ensuring that the plants are supported and well-staked to prevent wind damage. Prune out any affected plant tissues immediately to minimize the spread of the fungus. Planting chillies in free-draining soils, with good aeration and balanced nutrient regimes will ensure plants are less likely to succumb to opportunistic diseases like coral spot.
In cases where coral spot has already infected chillies, prompt intervention and treatment are crucial. Diseased plant material and debris should be removed and can be burned to minimize the spread of the fungus. For more severe infections, fungicides containing mancozeb, thiophanate-methyl, or copper oxychloride can be applied to the affected plant tissues.
In conclusion, coral spot is a destructive fungal disease that can significantly reduce yield and plant health in chilli peppers. Prevention and control measures involve proper plant care practices, such as good soil drainage, adequate spacing, and proper pruning techniques. Prompt treatment with fungicides may be necessary to manage severe infections. With proper care and management, farmers and gardeners can effectively manage coral spot and enjoy the full benefits that chilli peppers have to offer.