Powdery Mildew

Bitter gourd

Name: Powdery Mildew

Scientific Name: Erysiphe cichoracearum, Sphaerotheca fuliginea

Crop: Bitter gourd

Description:

  • The fungus survives on plant debris and spreads through wind-borne spores.
  • This disease occurs mostly in dry weather with high humidity conditions.

Damage Symptoms:

  • Whitish or grey, tiny powdery growth is seen on foliage, stems, and growing parts of the plant.
  • The superficial growth ultimately covers the entire leaf area.
  • The diseased areas turn brown and dry, leading to premature defoliation and death.
  • Fruits remain undeveloped and are deformed.

Preventive Measures:

  • Maintain proper air circulation by pruning and spacing the plants.
  • Avoid overhead irrigation to keep leaves dry.

Control Measures:

  • Spray tridemorph 0.1% or Karathane @0.2%.
  • Apply systemic fungicides like Tebuconazole or Myclobutanil.