Black Spots on Guava fruit and leaves

We do have about 300 guava plants at our farm. These days we are finding that many of our fruits are getting black spots, even the leaves.

Black spots on guava fruit can be caused by various factors, including fungal infections, pests, or environmental stress. Here are some organic solutions to help manage and prevent black spots on guava fruit:

1. Cultural Practices

Proper Spacing: Ensure adequate spacing between plants to improve air circulation, which can help reduce humidity and prevent fungal diseases.

Watering: Water the plants at the base to avoid wetting the leaves, which can promote fungal growth. Water early in the day to allow foliage to dry quickly.

Mulching: Use organic mulch (like straw or wood chips) around the base of the plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

2. Organic Fungicides

Neem Oil: Mix neem oil with water (follow the manufacturer's instructions) and spray it on the affected areas. Neem oil has antifungal properties and can help control fungal infections.

Baking Soda Solution: Mix 1 tablespoon of baking soda with 1 gallon of water and a few drops of liquid soap. Spray this solution on the leaves and fruit to help prevent fungal growth.

Milk Spray: Dilute milk (1 part milk to 2 parts water) and spray it on the plants. Milk has been shown to have anti-fungal properties.

3. Natural Remedies

Garlic Spray: Blend a few cloves of garlic with water, strain the mixture, and spray it on the plants. Garlic has natural antifungal and insect-repelling properties.

Chili Pepper Spray: Blend hot chili peppers with water, strain, and spray on the plants. This can deter pests that may contribute to the problem.

4. Pest Management

Handpicking: Regularly inspect the plants and handpick any visible pests.

Beneficial Insects: Introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings that can help control pest populations.

5. Soil Health

Compost: Regularly add organic compost to improve soil health and plant vigor, which can make plants more resilient to diseases.

Crop Rotation: Practice crop rotation to prevent the buildup of pathogens in the soil.

6. Regular Monitoring

Inspect your guava plants regularly for early signs of black spots or other issues. Early intervention can prevent the spread of diseases.

Conclusion

By implementing these organic solutions, you can effectively manage and prevent black spots on guava fruit while promoting a healthy growing environment. Always remember to test any spray on a small area of the plant first to ensure there are no adverse reactions.