Question: The most common disease of Ber is –
Options:
(a) Rust (1)
(b) Powdery mildew (2)
(c) Canker (3)
(d) Fruit rot (4)
Powdery Mildew: This is the most prevalent and economically significant disease affecting Ber trees. It is caused by the fungus Oidium erysiphoides var. zizyphi. The disease manifests as a white powdery coating on leaves, stems, flowers, and fruits. Severe infections can lead to defoliation,
🛑 Additional Information:::
• The common diseases of Ber (Ziziphus mauritiana) include:
• Powdery Mildew:
Cause: Fungal infection by Oidium erysiphoides.
Symptoms: White powdery spots on leaves, stems, and fruits, which can spread and lead to defoliation and reduced fruit quality.
Management: Spraying with sulfur-based fungicides or systemic fungicides like hexaconazole or carbendazim.
• Leaf Spot:
Cause: Fungi like Cercospora spp.
Symptoms: Brown or black circular spots on leaves, causing leaf drop in severe cases.
Management: Regular pruning of infected parts and use of fungicides like mancozeb or chlorothalonil.
• Fruit Rot:
Cause: Fungi such as Rhizopus spp. or Aspergillus spp.
Symptoms: Rotted, discolored, or mushy fruits, often under high humidity conditions.
Management: Proper sanitation, avoiding fruit injuries, and pre-harvest sprays of fungicides.
• Dieback:
Cause: Fungi like Lasiodiplodia theobromae.
Symptoms: Drying of twigs from the tip backward, ultimately killing the branch.
Management: Pruning of affected branches and application of systemic fungicides.
• Rust (less common):
Cause: Fungi like Ravenelia zizyphivulgaris.
Symptoms: Orange or rust-colored pustules on leaves, reducing photosynthetic activity.
Management: Use of copper-based fungicides or sulfur sprays.