Lemon: Disease, Symptoms, Prevention, and Treatment

Lemon plants hold significant importance in our gardens and fields, but their cultivation faces various diseases. These diseases not only affect plant growth but also negatively impact production. Understanding the identification of diseases in lemon plants and their effects is crucial for their control. In this post, we will explore the major diseases that affect lemon plants, their symptoms, and management strategies, enabling farmers to ensure better protection and productivity of their crops.

Major Diseases Affecting Lemon Plants

Damage Caused by Canker Disease

• Canker disease is a serious problem for lemon plants. It can cause significant damage to the plants and reduce fruit yield. This disease manifests as small, raised brown spots on the leaves, stems, branches, and fruits of affected plants. The quality of the affected fruits diminishes, leading to lower market value.

Methods to Control Canker Disease

• Select disease-resistant varieties.
• Choose disease-free plants for cultivation.
• Prune and burn the dry, infected branches.
• Apply 15 grams of Streptomycin Sulphate 90% + Tetracycline Hydrochloride 10% SP (JU-Strepto, Katyayani KMYCIN) per acre of land.
• After new plant growth appears, apply a solution of Streptocycline 50 to 100 PPM at intervals of 15 to 20 days.

Damage Caused by Anthracnose Disease

• The symptoms of this fungal disease can be seen on new plants, tender leaves, and fruits. Affected leaves develop small, dark brown spots, which are irregular in shape. The center of these spots becomes gray, while the edges turn brown. As the disease progresses, it hinders the growth of the plants. This disease can spread rapidly in areas with warm temperatures and high humidity.

Methods to Control Anthracnose Disease

• Adopt crop rotation to protect plants from this disease.
• Ensure proper drainage to avoid excess irrigation or waterlogging.
• Remove and destroy the debris of infected plants from the field.
• Use 200 ml of Azoxystrobin 18.2% + Difenoconazole 11.4% SC (DeHaat Synpact) per acre of field.
• Apply 300 grams of Kasugamycin 5% + Copper Oxychloride 45% WP (Dhanuka Conika) per acre of field.
• Use 450 grams of Carbendazim 12% + Mancozeb 63% WP (DeHaat Saabu) per acre of field.

Damage Caused by Dieback Disease

• Dieback disease causes significant damage to lemon crops. It stunts the growth of affected plants, reduces fruit production, and turns the leaves yellow. The upper branches of the plants start to dry out, and fruits begin to fall before they ripen. The roots of the affected plants turn black.

Methods to Control Dieback Disease

• Cut and remove the affected branches from the plant.
• Apply 300 ml of Azoxystrobin 11% + Tebuconazole 18.3% SC (DeHaat Azytop) per acre.
• Use 600 to 800 grams of Propineb 70% WP (DeHaat Zinacto) per acre.
• Apply 300-600 grams of Carbendazim 12% + Mancozeb 63% WP (DeHaat Saabu, Dhanuka Sixer) per acre.

Damage Caused by Gummosis Disease

• This disease is caused by the fungus Phytophthora, whose spores can survive in the soil for a long time. When the disease occurs, gum starts oozing from the stems of the plants. The roots and stems of the plants begin to rot, and the leaves turn yellow and start drying up.

Methods to Control Gummosis Disease

• Mix 250 grams of Cymoxanil 8% + Mancozeb 64% WP (Indofil Moximate, Crystal Partner, Dupont Curzet, Willowood Layby) in 100 liters of water, along with 25 grams of linseed oil in 1 liter of water, and apply.
• Use 300 ml of Metalaxyl-M 3.3% + Chlorothalonil 33.1% SC (Syngenta Folio Gold) per acre in the field.

What methods do you use to control the diseases when their symptoms appear on lemon crops? Share your answers and experiences with us in the comments. For more information on protecting crops from various diseases and pests, follow the 'Agri Doctor' channel now. Don't forget to like and share this post to reach more farmers!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What diseases affect lemon plants?

A: One common disease affecting lemon plants in India is Citrus Canker. It’s a bacterial disease that impacts the leaves, stems, and fruits of the plant. Additionally, lemon plants may also be affected by Anthracnose, Dieback, Gummosis, Powdery Mildew, and other diseases.

Q: What medication should be used for lemon plants?

A: The medication for lemon plants depends on the specific issues affecting them. Inspect the plants and identify the symptoms of the disease. If you have difficulty identifying the symptoms, contact agricultural experts and use medications as per their advice.

Q: Why do lemon trees dry up?

A: There can be several reasons for a lemon tree drying up. Common causes include insufficient or excessive watering. Other reasons may include nutrient deficiencies, pests or diseases, extreme temperatures, and poor soil quality. To avoid this, monitor the frequency and amount of irrigation, ensure proper drainage in the field, and manage diseases and pests effectively.

Q: Why do lemon leaves turn yellow?

A: Lemon leaves can turn yellow for various reasons. One common cause is nutrient deficiency, especially nitrogen. Other reasons may include over or under-watering, pests or diseases, and exposure to extreme temperatures or sunlight. Ensure timely and appropriate use of nutrients and protect the plants from diseases and pests.