Fungal attack in orange crops is a common problem farmers face. Fungi grow well in warm and humid weather conditions, which makes oranges a perfect breeding ground. There are several types of fungi that can attack orange crops, and they can cause serious damage to the fruits, lead to a poor harvest and even make the crop unsellable.
Thankfully, here are some tips on how to control fungal attack in orange crop.
1. Use a Fungicide
A fungicide is a chemical treatment that can be used to prevent and control fungal infections in crops. There are several types of fungicides available in the market that can be used to control fungal attack in orange crops. Some of the commonly used fungicides include copper-based products, sulfur-based products, and synthetic fungicides. It is important to read the label and follow the instructions provided when applying a fungicide.
2. Proper Sanitation
Proper sanitation is essential to control fungal attack in orange crops. It is necessary to remove dead wood and plant debris from the orchard, as fungi can grow in decaying plant material. Prune the damaged or diseased branches of the orange trees as soon as you detect them. Also, avoid watering the tree leaves as this can create a humid environment that favors fungal growth.
3. Crop Rotation
Crop rotation is a technique that involves alternating the planting of different crops in the same field to prevent the buildup of soil-borne pathogens. It is advisable to avoid planting oranges in the same plot repeatedly, as this can increase the risk of fungal infection. Instead, rotate different crops in the orchard year after year to prevent build-up of fungal spores.
4. Plant Disease-Resistant Varieties
Select orange tree varieties that are disease-resistant to prevent fungal attack. Study and find out the best disease-resistant varieties to plant that are adapted to your region. Disease-resistant oranges are known to produce high-quality fruits and have fewer disease issues.
5. Keep the Crop Dry
Fungi thrive in wet conditions. Therefore, it is essential to keep the crop dry to prevent fungal attack. Use a drip irrigation system instead of overhead watering to reduce humidity levels in the orchard.
In conclusion, controlling fungal attack in orange crops requires a combination of preventive measures such as proper sanitation, crop rotation, planting disease-resistant varieties, and keeping the crop dry. A preventive approach will help to prevent fungal infections from spreading and save you time, money, and effort in the long run.