Critical infection periods of mango blossom diseases.
Lonsdale J. H., Kotzé J. M.
Author Affiliation: Merensky Technological Services, P O Box 14, Duivelskloof 0835, South Africa.
Yearbook - South African Mango Growers' Association 11 : 62-64
Abstract : Critical infection periods for powdery mildew [Oidium mangiferae], blight [Dothiorella dominicana] and blossom spot [Alternaria alternata and Glomerella cingulata] of mango inflorescences were established. A sharp increase in powdery mildew infection occurred during the period 13 Jul. and 3 Aug. for cv. Zill and between 3 Aug. and 24 Aug. for cv. Keitt. During this period flowers had begun to open on the panicles. Prior to flowers opening and during fruit set, little infection occurred. Blight infection appeared to take place before the bud break stage. Blossom spot infection was very low, however, a critical infection period was observed 2-3 weeks after bud break (between 6 Jul. and 20 Jul. for cv. Zill and between 27 Jul. and 10 Aug. for cv. Keitt).