Anthracnose
Colletotrichum spp., Discula spp., Elsinoe spp., Glomerella spp.
Overview
A common fungal disease causing dark, sunken lesions on leaves, stems, flowers, and fruits. The lesions often have concentric rings and may produce salmon-pink spore masses in wet weather.
Symptoms
Dark, sunken, water-soaked lesions on leaves, stems, and fruit. Lesions may have tan or salmon-pink centers with dark borders. Leaf distortion, defoliation, and fruit rot in severe cases.
Environmental Conditions
Humid
Prevention
Plant resistant varieties. Ensure good air circulation. Avoid overhead irrigation. Remove and destroy infected plant debris. Practice crop rotation. Apply preventive copper sprays.
Management
Apply copper-based or chlorothalonil fungicides at first signs. Remove infected plant parts. Improve drainage. Avoid working with wet plants. Hot water seed treatment for vegetable crops.