National Symposium on “Plant Pathology in the Changing Global Scenario” held at National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources, New Delhi on February 27–28, 2009
Field trials was conducted on black fruit spot (Alternaria alternata) of ber at PAU, Reginal Station, Abohar. The disease is economically important as the consumers do not like to purchase the spotted fruits. The fungus produces small irregular, sunken and black spots on the fruits. In advanced stages, these spots coalesce to form the bigger spots and cover the more fruit areas. The infected fruits became disfigured and may drop off before harvest. The disease starts its appearance in first week of February and was very severe in February to March. It reached its highest peak(52.27%) in March (7–15th March) and there after it declines. Of the screened varieties of Ber (Umran, Sanaur-2, ZG-2, Kathli, Nazuak and Chhuhara) all were found susceptible. Sanaur-2, Nazuak and Chhuhara were significantly susceptible. Out of the three fungicides namely, Mancozeb 75 WP, Ziram 27 SC and Blitox 50 WP, mancozeb resulted in significantly low disease development and high disease control and was also economical. Two sprays of mancozeb 75 WP @ 0.25% in end January and mid-February for the better control of disease is recommended.
