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Anthracnose Fruit Rot

Anthracnose is an important disease of strawberry with all parts of the plant (fruit, crowns, leaves, petioles and runners) being susceptible to the pathogen.

#Strawberries 

Overview

Anthracnose Fruit Rot, caused by the fungus Colletotrichum acutatum, is a significant disease affecting strawberry plants. This disease can lead to substantial yield losses and reduce the quality of the fruit. It primarily impacts ripe and nearly ripe strawberries, making it a serious concern for both commercial and home growers.


Symptoms

	1.	Fruit Rot: The most noticeable symptom of Anthracnose Fruit Rot is the appearance of dark, 
 		sunken lesions on the fruit. These lesions are typically circular, with a dark brown to black 
 		center and a reddish or pinkish border.
	2.	Spore Production: In the advanced stages of infection, the lesions may develop a pink or 
 		orange spore mass, which can be seen on the surface of the rotted fruit.
	3.	Premature Ripening: Infected fruit may show signs of premature ripening, leading to soft, 
 		mushy areas that quickly become moldy and unmarketable.
 	4.	Fruit Drop: In severe cases, the infected fruit may drop prematurely from the plant.
	5.	Leaf Symptoms: While the primary symptoms are on the fruit, the disease can also cause 
 		small, dark spots on the leaves and stems, though this is less common.
Disease Cycle

	1.	Inoculum Source: The fungus Colletotrichum acutatum overwinters in plant debris, soil, and 
 		sometimes in infected plant parts. It can also be spread through infected nursery plants or 	 
 		by contaminated tools and equipment.
	2.	Spore Release: During wet conditions, the fungus produces spores that are released into the 
 		environment. These spores are dispersed by rain, wind, or overhead irrigation.
	3.	Infection: Spores land on ripe or nearly ripe strawberries and infect the fruit through small 
 		wounds or natural openings.
	4.	Disease Development: The infection progresses rapidly under favorable conditions, causing 
 		the fruit to rot and become covered with spore masses.
	5.	Spread: As the fruit decays, it releases more spores into the environment, which can infect 
 		other nearby fruit, perpetuating the cycle.


Favorable Conditions

	•	Moisture: High humidity and frequent rainfall or overhead irrigation create ideal conditions 
 		for the fungus to thrive and spread.
	•	Warm Temperatures: The disease is favored by warm temperatures, typically between 70°F 
 		and 85°F (21°C to 29°C).
	•	Dense Planting: Close plant spacing and poor air circulation can increase humidity around 	 	 
 		the fruit, promoting disease development
Management Strategies

	1.	Cultural Practices:
		
		o	Site Selection: Choose well-drained sites for planting to reduce moisture around the 
 			plants.
		o	Crop Rotation: Avoid planting strawberries in the same location for consecutive years 
 			to minimize fungal buildup.
		o	Sanitation: Remove and destroy infected fruit and plant debris to reduce the source of 
 			inoculum.
		o	Proper Spacing: Space plants adequately to improve air circulation and reduce 
 			humidity around the fruit.

	2.	Water Management:

		o	Drip Irrigation: Use drip irrigation instead of overhead watering to keep the fruit dry 	 		 
	 		and minimize the spread of spores.
		o	Avoid Overhead Irrigation: If using overhead irrigation, ensure it is done early in the 
 			day to allow time for the plants to dry before evening.

	3.	Fungicide Applications:
	
		o	Preventative Sprays: Apply fungicides as a preventative measure during fruit 	 	 
 			development, especially in areas with a history of Anthracnose. Common fungicides 
 			include those with active ingredients like chlorothalonil, azoxystrobin, and captan.
		o	Rotation: Rotate between different classes of fungicides to reduce the risk of resistance 	 	 	 
 			developing in the fungus.

	4.	Resistant Varieties:

		o	Variety Selection: Plant strawberry varieties that are less susceptible to Anthracnose 
 			Fruit Rot if available. Consult local extension services or nurseries for recommendations 	 
 			on resistant varieties.

	5.	Regular Monitoring:
	
		o	Inspection: Regularly inspect plants for early signs of the disease and take action 
 			promptly if symptoms are observed.


Conclusion

Anthracnose Fruit Rot is a serious disease that can significantly impact strawberry production. By understanding the disease cycle, favorable conditions, and effective management practices, growers can reduce the risk of infection and protect their crops. Implementing a combination of cultural, water management, and fungicide strategies will help manage and control Anthracnose Fruit Rot, ensuring a healthier and more productive strawberry harvest.


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