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Pepper > Dark blotch
What Causes Dark Blotch on Pepper Leaves?
Pepper, also known as Chili pepper, Facing heaven pepper, Jalapeño, Anaheim pepper
Dark blotch is a prevalent disease affecting Pepper, causing dark, sunken lesions on fruit and foliage. The disease is notorious for inducing decay, loss of yield, and quality, primarily due to a fungus, Alternaria alternata.

Symptom Analysis

The disease manifests through the formation of dark, sunken spots on leaves and fruit, typically starting as small, brown to purple discolorations. The spots often enlarge, leading to severe leaf or fruit decay.
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What Causes Dark blotch Disease on Pepper?

Fungus
The primary cause of the disease is the pathogenic fungus Alternaria alternata, which attacks the fruit and foliage of the Pepper.
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How to Treat Dark blotch Disease on Pepper?

Non pesticide
Plant sanitation: Removal of infected plant debris and strict sanitation practices can minimize the spread and severity of infection.

Proper irrigation: Ensuring well-drained soil and avoiding sprinkler or overhead irrigation which can contribute to fungal proliferation.
Pesticide
Fungicide application: Use of fungicides containing copper or chlorothalonil can effectively manage the disease if applied at the onset of symptoms.

How to Prevent Dark blotch on Pepper?

Crop rotation
Implementing crop rotation with non-host plants helps disrupt the fungus's lifecycle, thus reducing the incidence of disease.
Resistant cultivars
Employing varieties of Pepper that exhibit resistance to Alternaria alternata can limit the impact of dark blotch disease.
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When is Dark blotch Most Active Period on Pepper?

Dark blotch is most active during warmer, wet periods as Alternari alternata thrives in higher humidity and temperature, expediting its spread and infection rate.

Infectivity

The disease has a moderate infectious rate, where spores of the fungus can be routinely dispersed by wind or splashing water.

Lethality

If left untreated, dark blotch can be moderately lethal to Pepper, causing considerable yield loss and reduced fruit quality.

FAQs on Pepper

What does dark blotch disease look like on Pepper?
It manifests as dark, sunken spots on the leaves and fruits. These spots usually start as small, brown to purple discolorations and may enlarge with time, leading to decay.
How does dark blotch disease affect the yield of Pepper?
Dark blotch disease can cause significant yield loss as the resulting lesions induce decay, reducing both the quantity and quality of the harvest.
Does dark blotch disease kill Pepper?
If left untreated, dark blotch can be moderately lethal, affecting plant health severely and drastically reducing yield potential.
What causes dark blotch disease in Pepper?
The disease is primarily caused by the fungal pathogen Alternaria alternata, which attacks the fruit and foliage of the Pepper.
How can dark blotch disease be prevented?
The disease can be prevented through effective crop rotation, use of resistant cultivars, strict plant sanitation, and proper irrigation practices.
Can dark blotch disease be treated?
Yes, dark blotch disease can be managed through non-pesticide methods like plant sanitation and proper irrigation and pesticide methods like application of certain fungicides.
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