Controlling basal stem rot in coconut trees
AMONG THE various fungal diseases affecting coconut palm, basal stem rot (Ganoderma wilt) is the most destructive.
During the early stage of infection no external disease symptoms are clearly visible.
The first characteristic visual symptom of the disease is exudation of reddish brown viscous fluid from basal portions of the stem.
Stem discolouration
The bleeding patches begin from the base and extend up to three metres upwards as the disease progresses and discoloration in the stem can be seen up to the height of bleeding.
In the crown, leaflets of the outer most whorl exhibit wilting symptoms. Later on, one or two outer whorls of leaves turn yellow.
As the disease advances, the leaves droop down in quick succession leaving only the spindle with new unhealthy leaves around. Normal development of flowers and bunches is arrested, leading to button shedding and nuts become barren.
Finally, all the leaves droop and fall out leaving the decapitated stem. The stem shrivels and drives up.
Integrated Management
— The diseased part of the garden should be isolated from healthy area by digging an isolation trench.
— Removal and burning of diseased and dead palms along with roots is recommended.
— Injury or damage to roots and pruning or cutting of roots should be avoided.
— Frequent watering/irrigation should be done during summer months.
— While irrigating, care should be taken to avoid flow of water from diseased trees to others. Basin system of irrigation to individual palms is thoroughly recommended.
— Application of talc formulation of Trichoderma viride (50 gm) in combination with 5 kg neem cake/palm/year is recommended. .
B. SRINIVASULU
AND D.V.R. RAO
Acharya N.G. Ranga Agricultural University
Ambajipeta
Andhra Pradesh
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