Hendersonia rot

Hendersonia rot, caused by the fungus Hendersonia creberrima, is a significant pathological condition affecting mango trees. This fungal infection primarily manifests as leaf spotting and fruit lesions, which can compromise the structural integrity and market quality of the harvest.

The pathogen is an ascomycete fungus that survives in infected plant debris, including fallen leaves and twigs. Under specific environmental conditions, the fungus produces spores that serve as primary inoculum, initiating the infection cycle on healthy plant tissues during favorable weather windows.

Early symptoms include the appearance of localized dark spots on leaves, which gradually enlarge and may coalesce. On mango fruits, the disease presents as necrotic lesions that reduce the fruit's storage potential and often act as an entry point for other opportunistic soft-rot pathogens.

Disease progression is highly dependent on environmental factors, particularly prolonged periods of high humidity and rainfall. These conditions facilitate spore germination and mycelial spread. Poor orchard sanitation and dense canopy foliage further exacerbate the impact of the disease by creating micro-habitats conducive to fungal growth.

Effective management and prevention of Hendersonia rot require an integrated approach focusing on reducing the pathogen load and boosting tree resistance:

• Sanitation protocols, such as removing and destroying all infected plant materials.
• Pruning to increase light penetration and air circulation throughout the tree canopy.
• Strategic fungicide applications to protect young leaves and developing fruit.
• Maintaining proper horticultural practices to avoid excessive humidity around the trees.