Relationship of Epiphytic Growth of Mycosphaerella citri to Greasy Spot Development on Citrus and to Disease Control with Fenbuconazole

Abstract

Greasy spot, caused by Mycosphaerella citri, produces foliar lesions and severe defoliation of citrus trees. Ascospore production and deposition by M. citri, development of epiphytic growth, and symptoms were monitored on grapefruit trees in the field and on rough lemon trap plants for 2 years. Ascospore production and deposition peaked in April to May both years. However, epiphytic mycelium did not develop extensively until the summer rainy season was well underway in July. Some epiphytic growth and symptoms formed on trap plants placed in the grove for 2-week periods throughout the year. In the summer, epiphytic growth was apparent 15 days after the exposure period, and symptoms appeared about 60 days after exposure, but development was much slower in cooler and drier months. One or two fenbuconazole applications before the development of epiphytic mycelium in July completely controlled greasy spot on spring growth leaves for 12 to 18 months. Applications in July or August were less effective. Epiphytic mycelium developed more rapidly on summer growth; therefore, fungicide applications need to be timed more precisely.