Tomato Diseases


Anthracnose
Colletotrichum coccodes, Colletotrichum spp.

Found worldwide

Damage Symptoms

The fungus infects green fruit, but symptoms appear only on ripe fruit. Small circular depressions appear and enlarge up to 12 mm in diameter. The center of the lesion usually becomes tan in color and is dotted with microsclerotia. Salmon-colored spores may appear on the surface of the lesion.


Conditions for Development

Rainfall is required for infection and spread of the disease. The pathogens persist on alternate hosts, crop debris, and are seedborne.


Control

Used pathogen-free seed. Rotate with non-Solanaceous crops. Stake to allow air circulation and rapid drying. Minimize overhead irrigation. Apply fungicidal sprays.