Common Diseases Affecting Nectarine Fruit

Nectarines are delicious stone fruits that are susceptible to various diseases. In this article, we will explore some of the most common diseases that affect nectarine fruit, their symptoms, and potential management strategies.

1. Leaf Curl

• Reddish or purplish discoloration and curling of leaves
• Stunted growth and distorted foliage
• Abnormal fruit development

• Prune and destroy infected branches during the dormant season
• Apply copper-based fungicides during late winter or early spring
• Ensure proper sanitation practices to prevent disease spread

2. Brown Rot

• Brown, circular lesions on fruit surface
• Rapid fruit decay with a fuzzy, tan-colored spore mass
• Shriveling and mummification of infected fruit

• Remove and destroy infected fruit from the tree and surrounding area
• Apply fungicides during pre-bloom and post-harvest stages
• Improve air circulation and reduce humidity around the tree

3. Peach Scab

• Dark, scaly lesions on fruit surface
• Cracking and distortion of infected fruit
• Leaf and twig lesions with a velvety appearance

• Prune and destroy infected plant parts during the dormant season
• Apply fungicides during the growing season, following label instructions
• Ensure proper tree spacing and pruning to improve air circulation

4. Bacterial Spot

• Small, dark spots on leaves, fruit, and twigs
• Lesions may ooze bacterial exudate
• Leaf and fruit drop in severe cases

• Prune and destroy infected plant parts
• Apply copper-based bactericides during the dormant season
• Implement proper irrigation practices to avoid leaf wetness

These are just a few examples of the common diseases that can affect nectarine fruit. It is important for growers to be vigilant and implement appropriate management strategies to minimize the impact of these diseases and ensure healthy fruit production.

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Keywords: management, infected, during, diseases, symptoms, destroy, season, lesions, common