THREAD BLIGHT, COFFEE - INDIA: (KARNATAKA)
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Continuous rain leads to berry drop in coffee
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It is a double trouble for coffee growing regions -- continuous rain
in the last 10 days of August [2011] has caused black rot to set in
arabica which has caused berry drop, said the Karnataka Planters
Association (KPA). In addition, non-availability of potash-based
fertilisers has also contributed to berry drop.

Black rot (koleroga) usually occurs during high humidity and hanging
mist causing blackening and subsequent rotting of young leaves,
berries, and shoots. Diseased leaves get detached from branches and
hang out by means of slimy fungal strands.

"Alarmed at black rot, the Coffee Board is advising growers to
facilitate aeration of plants by clearing weeds, dry leaves, and
mulch," said a senior official.

http://www.promedmail.org/pls/apex/f?p= ... 1000,90178