The Citrus They group together a wide variety of crops of economic importance. On this occasion, we will learn about the orange tree diseases, which cause great economic losses and damage our orchard fruit trees. An important aspect to take into account are the orange tree diseases more common.
El sweet orange tree (Citrus) is the most consumed citrus fruit worldwide. It is native to China and northern Burma and has also been well known throughout the Mediterranean for some 3000 years.
Control of orange tree diseases begins with a proper recognition of the causative pathogen and the conditions that promote its development. In addition, it is vital to understand the plagues and diseases that affect other citrus fruits, as they may share similarities.
Gum
Description
This disease is caused by different species of PhytophthoraThis fungus is found in the soil and infects the neck, trunk, main branches and roots.
La gummosis in citrus fruitsIncluding orange tree, can occur both in the nursery and in the field when the conditions necessary for the disease to develop are met. Lesions develop rapidly, and gum-like exudations (hence its name) are observed.
These exudates are water-soluble, so they can disappear with irrigation or rainfall. However, they reappear later. Affected plants acquire a pale green color and the leaf veins turn yellow. The tree appears droopy and produces few new shoots. To learn more about care, we recommend consulting our guide on orange tree care.
Conditions that favor it
High soil moisture, pH between 4 and 6, mechanical damage to the roots and lower stem (caused by pests or tillage). Also, grafting below 30 cm and deep planting, the use of susceptible rootstocks, and excessive nitrogen fertilization. Phytophthora spp. can remain on the ground for long periods. The moisture It favors the reproduction and dissemination of the pathogen and, for this reason, its incidence increases during the rainy season or in poorly drained soils.
Prevention and control
Use high-quality phytosanitary materials purchased from responsible nurseries. Graft plants above 30 cm in height from the rootstock. Always use plants grafted onto disease-resistant rootstocks. Maintain adequate drainage to prevent waterlogging at the base.
It is VERY IMPORTANT: 1) Apply copper-based healing paste to the wounds. 2) Control insects or larvae that attack the roots. 3) Apply copper fungicides and/or fosetyl-Al based.
Anthracnose
Description
It is favored by conditions of high humidity and rainfall. The disease is caused by fungi of the genus ColletotrichumIn affected plants, necrotic lesions can be seen on flower buds, fruits and leaves.
Brianda Orange leaves, the spots are irregular and vary in size. If the infection is severe, intense defoliation occurs. It is generally associated with leaf spots caused by fungi of the genus Alternaria.
Under high humidity conditions, soft, pinkish masses appear, which slough off and are dispersed by rain. Insects, wind, and tools also spread the pathogen, which can survive on fallen fruit and dry branches.
Conditions that favor it
Relative humidity above 90%. Presence of a layer of water on the leaves. Temperatures close to 25°C, favorable for conidia production and germination. Lack of vigor, stress, or nutritional imbalance in the plants.
Prevention and control
Purchase healthy plants from responsible nurseries. Collect and destroy diseased fruit to eliminate sources of infection. Prune affected branches and leaves and remove them from the field, making sure to eliminate them so they don't become a source of inoculum. Apply preventive measures. copper fungicides and benzimidazole fungicides.
sooty mold
Description
Sooty mold is very common on mature trees with abundant foliage that have been attacked by insects that secrete sticky substances. Dark spots can be seen covering orange leaves and fruit, diminishing their quality.
Sooty mold is managed preventively by adequately controlling the insects that produce its food. For this, it is advisable to apply Neem insecticide in mixtures with Pyrethrin, to control a wider range of insect pests.
Radical sores
Description
This orange disease is caused by several different pathogens. The most common are fungi of the genera Rosellinia, Ceratocystis y armillariaThe development of the disease depends on the causative agent; however, they share some characteristics. The pathogen is found in the soil, penetrates through wounds in the roots and neck, and causes rot at the base of the trunk, resulting in death.
Prevention and control
Use healthy materials purchased from responsible nurseries. Disinfect work implements before use. Avoid pruning during rainy seasons. Trichoderma on the ground, which is an antagonistic agent of excellent action.
The identification of Diseases and pests that affect orange trees is crucial for prevention and control. These may include infestations of aphids, which can cause deformations in leaves and fruits, as well as transmit viruses. fruit flies y cotton buds They are also significant pests that can weaken the tree and affect the quality of the fruit. For more information, you can consult the Navelina Orange Tree, a resistant variety.
In addition, with a focus on integrated management, cultural practices can be implemented, such as proper watering, pruning at the right time, and choosing resistant varieties. These practices help reduce the incidence and impact of pests and diseases.
It is important to perform regular inspections to detect any signs of disease or pests. Monitoring forms and traps can help in the early identification of infestations. If pests are detected, appropriate interventions They must be fast and effective, using both chemical and biological methods.
La farmer education It's essential in this process. Knowing the pests and diseases, as well as the available control methods, allows for more effective management. It's also advisable to attend workshops and training sessions to stay up-to-date on best practices and advances in the field.
Pest control in orange trees
Pest management in orange groves is carried out through cultural, biological, and chemical techniques. Implementing an integrated approach is key to maintaining a healthy crop. For example, biologic control uses natural enemies of pests, such as predators and parasitoids, to keep pest populations in check fruit flies, aphids y miners.
El chemical control This may include the application of insecticides specific to the pest, as well as the use of traps to capture adults. It is also essential to consider the appropriate dosage and application timing to maximize effectiveness and minimize environmental impact.
La training and qualification Farmers' health information is an important tool in the fight against pests and diseases. Knowing the different types of pests, their life cycles, and behavior helps citrus growers make informed decisions. You can find more information about when to plant orange trees.
Pests that affect the orange tree
The most common pests that affect the orange tree include fruit fly (Ceratitis capitata), the aphid, the citrus miner, as well as the California red louse (Aonidiella aurantii). Each of these pests presents unique challenges and requires different control approaches. Visit our section on pest control for more relevant information.
La fruit fly It is known to affect not only orange trees, but also other fruit trees. Control is based on early identification and the use of traps, as well as the removal of infected fruit.
In turn, the aphid can weaken the tree and transmit viruses, while the citrus miner It causes visible damage to leaves due to its galleries. The control strategy should include both cultural methods and the use of insecticides at critical times.
Pests and diseases of orange trees
For the citrus grower, the Pests and diseases in orange crops They represent a significant threat because they reduce production volume, affecting not only the quality of the fruit, but also the profitability of the crop.
Proper control of these pests and diseases is essential to ensure crop health and maximize yields. Preventive measures, such as proper irrigation and fertilization management, are equally important. In this regard, one of the key aspects is understanding the right time to prune.
Implement an approach of integrated fighting It combines cultural, biological, and chemical practices to effectively manage pests. This not only helps mitigate the impact of pests but also promotes environmental conservation and the health of the agricultural ecosystem.
In California they are having problems that may have reached Spain.
Here I leave the link:
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