Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that can infect okra plants, causing white powdery growth on the leaves, stems, and even fruits. It can reduce yields and affect the quality of the okra. The white powdery growth on leaves blocks sunlight, hindering the plant's ability to produce food through photosynthesis. Infected leaves may drop prematurely, reducing the plant's photosynthetic capacity and limiting its ability to produce fruits. Severe infections can stunt the overall growth of the plant, leading to fewer and smaller fruits. Powdery mildew can directly affect the quality of okra fruits, making them blemished and unmarketable.
- Type of Infestation: Fungal Disease
- Common Name: Powdery Mildew
- Causal Organism: Erysiphe cichoracearum
- Affected Parts Of the plant: Leaves, Stem, fruits
Environmental favorable factors for pests/Diseases:
- Temperature: Optimal range for the fungus lies between 18-25°C (64-77°F). Cooler nights with warm days further promote spore germination and growth.
- Humidity: Moderate humidity (around 50-70%) allows for spore dispersal and germination, but not enough to wash them away.
Symptoms of Pest/Disease:
- White powdery growth: This is the most obvious symptom, and it usually appears on the upper surface of the leaves first. The growth may spread to the undersides of the leaves, stems, and fruits.
- Stunted growth: Infected plants may not grow as tall or produce as many fruits as healthy plants.
- Yellowing leaves: Leaves that are severely infected with powdery mildew may turn yellow and drop off prematurely.
- Reduced fruit quality: Powdery mildew can make okra fruits misshapen and discolored.
Measures to control Pests/Diseases:
| Products | Technical Names | Dosages |
| KTM | Thiophanate Methyl 70% WP | 250-600 grams per acre |
| CONCOR | Difenconazole 25 % EC | 120 ml - 150 ml / Acre |
| Azoxy | Azoxystrobin 23 % sc | 200 ml/acre |
| Hexa 5 Plus | Hexaconazole 5 % SC | 200-250 ml per acre |
| Dismiss | Dimethomorph 50 % WP | 400 gms/ Acre |
