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Chayote > Spots
Why Does Chayote Get Spotty Leaves?
Chayote, also known as Choke, Christophine, Pepineca, Alligator pear, Choko
Spots is a fungal disease that causes damage to Chayote, leading to yield losses. The disease is characterized by browning spots on leaves, reduction in plant vigor, and decay of the fruit flesh. Its severity is influenced by environmental conditions and the plant's overall health status.

Symptom Analysis

Affected Chayote plants develop brown spots on the leaves that may coalesce into larger blotches. Stem infection can cause wilting, and severe symptoms include fruit decay, characterized by soft, water-soaked areas that may become covered in orange spore masses.
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What Causes Spots Disease on Chayote?

Fungi
Spots is primarily caused by the fungal pathogens from the genus Colletotrichum. These pathogens enter plant tissues through wounds or natural openings, thriving in warm and humid conditions.
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How to Treat Spots Disease on Chayote?

Non pesticide
Cultural controls: Implement proper spacing of plants to improve air circulation, prevent overcrowding and reduce humidity levels. Regularly remove and destroy infected plant material to limit the spread of fungal spores.

Resistant cultivars: Planting disease-resistant varieties can help minimize the effects of Spots.
Pesticide
Fungicide applications: Applying a suitable fungicide, following the manufacturer's instructions, can effectively control fungal populations.

How to Prevent Spots on Chayote?

Proper irrigation management
Avoid over-irrigation and ensure proper drainage to prevent standing water. High humidity and constant leaf wetness favor the spread of the disease.
Crop rotation
Performing crop rotations and incorporating non-host crops can help break the disease cycle by disrupting the survival of fungal pathogens in the soil.
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When is Spots Most Active Period on Chayote?

Spots is most active in warm and humid seasons, as these conditions favor fungal growth and penetration. Excessive irrigation and rainfall can also contribute to an increase in disease incidence.

Infectivity

Spots is highly infectious because the fungal spores spread easily through wind, water splashes, contaminated tools and infected plant debris.

Lethality

The disease is moderately lethal, causing significant yield losses but rarely resulting in plant death unless in magnified conditions.

FAQs on Chayote

Why are the leaves of my Chayote plant turning brown?
Leaf browning can be a sign of Spot disease. Look for small, round or irregularly shaped spots which may merge into larger blotches if the disease progresses.
How does Spots disease spread in a Chayote garden?
Spots disease spreads mainly through fungal spores carried by wind, splashing water, and contaminated tools or plant material. Fungi can also persist in soil or on plant debris.
Can Chayote recover from a Spots disease infection?
Yes, with proper management procedures and treatments, Chayote can recover from Spots. Consider fungicide applications, resistant cultivars, and good cultural practices.
How can I prevent Spots on Chayote?
Prevention measures include proper irrigation, suitable plant spacing, removal of infected plant material, use of resistant varieties and crop rotation.
Are the fruits of a Chayote plant infected with Spots safe for consumption?
If only a small portion of the fruit is affected and the infected tissue is removed, it may be safe to consume. However, fruits showing extensive disease symptoms should be discarded.
Does every brown spot on a Chayote plant indicate the presence of Spots disease?
Not necessarily. While brown spots can be a symptom of Spots disease, they can also develop due to nutrient deficiencies, water stress or other pathogens. Accurate diagnosis is crucial.
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