Berry Blotch of Coffee:
Berry blotch or iron spot (Cercospora coffeicola) is the most common fruit problem worldwide and its association to malnourishment of coffee plantations is well known, particularly with respect to nitrogen deficiencies.
Disease Symptoms:
Necrotic spots on the exposed surface of green berries enlarge and cover the major portion. Fruit skin shrivels and sticks fast to the parchment.
The classic leaf symptom is circular spots with tan, gray, or white centers; lesions may be irregular in shape and cause leaf blight. Lesions begin as small, chlorotic spots that expand to become deep brown on the upper leaf surface.
Survival and Spread:
The pathogen is seed borne and conidia are spread by wind.
Favorable Conditions:
High humidity, rain and warm temperatures favours the disease.
Control:
Spray 1% Bordeaux mixture during june and late august, maintain medium shade overhead.
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