Cancer disease in lemon plants is a fungal infection that can severely harm or even kill your tree if left untreated. The fungus known as Phoma tracheiphila is responsible for causing the cancer disease. The fungus affects the tree by producing canker-like spots on the bark of the tree, which disrupt the sap flow and cause the leaves to wilt. The fungus spreads by spores and can infect the tree through wounds or cuts. Here are essential tips for controlling cancer disease in lemon plants.
1. Preventive Measures
The best way to control cancer disease in a lemon plant is to prevent it in the first place. You can start by choosing a healthy planting site for your tree, where the soil is fertile, and there’s proper drainage. Also, keep the area around your lemon tree weed-free since weeds can harbor spores that cause the infection. Moreover, avoid pruning during the rainy season as this can provide an entry point for the fungus.
2. Remove Infected Branches
If you notice any signs of fungal infection, remove the affected branches immediately. Use pruning shears or a saw to cut a few inches below the infected area, then sterilize the tool with 70% alcohol before using it on other parts of the tree. Ensure you dispose of the infected branches away from the lemon tree since they can act as a source of spores.
3. Apply Fungicides
Fungicides are effective in controlling cancer disease in lemon plants. You should apply the fungicide spray during the dormant season when the tree is not actively growing, using the manufacturer’s instructions. Alternatively, you can use natural fungicide such as neem oil or copper fungicide, which are less toxic to the environment.
4. Improve the Soil
The soil that the plant grows in can also impact its ability to fight off infections. It is crucial to keep the soil well-drained, aerated, and healthy, which in turn, boosts the plant’s immune system. Add organic fertilizers to the soil to provide the plant with nutrients that it needs to develop a natural defense mechanism against diseases.
5. Practice Good Hygiene
Finally, maintaining good hygiene standards in the garden can help prevent the spread of the disease. Clean garden tools with alcohol after use, avoid watering the plant from overhead and dispose of infected plant material away from the garden.
In conclusion, cancer disease can be a severe threat to your lemon plant, but with good prevention measures, timely interventions, and proper care, you can manage this disease effectively. Regularly monitoring your plant’s health can help you spot the early sign of the infection, and address it before it gets out of hand.