This presentation covers major diseases of apple, focusing on their causal agents, symptoms, disease cycles, and management strategies. Emphasis is placed on accurate identification and integrated management for sustainable apple production. Key topics include apple scab, powdery mildew, and fire blight. Important academic keywords: pathogen, symptoms, disease cycle, management, resistant varieties.
Introduction to Apple Diseases
Apple is affected by several fungal and bacterial diseases.
Major diseases include apple scab, powdery mildew, fire blight, and crown gall.
Effective management requires understanding pathogen biology and integrated control methods.
Major Apple Diseases and Causal Agents
Apple scab: Venturia inaequalis
Powdery mildew: Podosphaera leucotricha
Fire blight: Erwinia amylovora
Crown gall: Agrobacterium tumefaciens
Other diseases: Black rot, sooty blotch, flyspeck, Phytophthora crown rot
Apple Scab – Pathogen and Distribution
Caused by Venturia inaequalis (fungus).
First reported in Sweden (1819); in India, on Ambri variety in Kashmir (1935).
Favored by cool, moist conditions during spring.
Apple Scab – Symptoms
Black, circular, velvety spots on upper leaf surface; may coalesce.
Leaves become twisted, yellow, and may drop prematurely.
Fruits show sooty, gray-black lesions that become sunken and tan.
Severely affected fruit may crack and drop early.
Apple Scab – Disease Cycle and Spread
Primary inoculum: ascospores from fallen leaves in spring.
Secondary spread: conidia dispersed by wind and rain.
Infection favored by wet weather during bud break and early fruit development.
Apple Scab – Management
Sanitation: remove and destroy fallen leaves.
Use resistant varieties: Emira, Redfree, Ambstraking, Ambroyal, Ambrich, Ambred.
Fungicide sprays: captan (0.2%), dodine (0.25%) after petal fall.
Apply difolatan (0.3%) at green bud stage, followed by captan at petal fall.
Powdery Mildew – Pathogen and Symptoms
Caused by Podosphaera leucotricha (fungus).
White or gray powdery patches on young leaves, shoots, and fruits.
Leaves become narrow, curled, and distorted; twigs covered with powdery mass.
Affected fruits are small, deformed, and roughened.
Powdery Mildew – Disease Cycle and Management
Overwinters as mycelium in buds and fruits.
Spread by wind-borne conidia in spring and summer.
Sanitation: remove infected shoots and plant debris.
Spray lime sulphur (1:60) pre-bloom; dinocap (0.05%) or wettable sulphur.
Resistant varieties: Maharaja Chunth, Golden Chinese, Yantarka Altaskya, Dolgoe.
Fire Blight – Pathogen and Symptoms
Caused by Erwinia amylovora (bacterium).
Affects blossoms, shoots, branches, and sometimes rootstock.
Blossoms become water-soaked, then brown to black and shriveled.
Shoots wilt, forming “shepherd’s crook”; leaves blacken along veins.
Infected fruit shrivel, turn black, and may remain attached.
Fire Blight – Disease Cycle and Spread
Bacteria overwinter in cankers and healthy woody tissue.
Spread by insects (bees, flies, ants) and rain splash.
Infection occurs during warm, humid weather, especially at bloom.
Fire Blight – Management
Prune and burn infected twigs and branches 30 cm below visible symptoms.
Disinfect tools with 10% sodium hypochlorite after each cut.
Control insect vectors.
Use resistant varieties where available.
Dormant sprays: copper sulphate or Bordeaux mixture; streptomycin for blossom protection.
Other Important Apple Diseases (Brief Overview)
Cedar apple rust: Gymnosporangium juniperi-virginianae – orange leaf spots, fruit lesions.
Crown gall: Agrobacterium tumefaciens – tumor-like galls on roots and stems.
Black rot: Botryosphaeria obtusa – fruit rot, leaf spots, cankers.
Sooty blotch and flyspeck: superficial fruit blemishes, reduce market value.
Phytophthora crown, collar, and root rot: Phytophthora spp. – root decay, tree decline.
Summary: Integrated Disease Management in Apple
Combine cultural, chemical, and genetic approaches for effective control.
Regular orchard sanitation and pruning are essential.
Use disease-resistant varieties when possible.
Apply fungicides and bactericides judiciously, following recommended schedules.
Monitor orchards regularly for early detection and management.
This lecture covers fundamental concepts in agriculture, focusing on crop production, soil management, and pest control. It emphasizes the importance of horticulture practices, forestry conservation, and veterinary science in sustainable farming systems. Key topics include integrated pest management, soil fertility, and crop improvement techniques.
Introduction to Agriculture and Horticulture
Definition and scope of agriculture and horticulture.
This presentation covers the fundamental concepts of **agriculture**, **horticulture**, **forestry**, and **veterinary sciences**. It provides an overview of key topics relevant for competitive exams such as JRF, SRF, PG/PhD, ICAR, and ARS. The slides are structured to facilitate understanding and retention of important information.
Introduction to Agriculture
Agriculture involves the cultivation of plants and rearing of animals for food, fiber, and other products.
It is a critical sector for global food security and economic development.
Key areas include crop production, animal husbandry, and sustainable farming practices.
Horticulture
Horticulture focuses on the cultivation of fruits, vegetables, and ornamental plants.
It includes practices like plant breeding, pest management, and landscape design.
Horticulture contributes to nutrition, aesthetics, and biodiversity conservation.
Forestry
Forestry involves the management and conservation of forests and woodlands.
It plays a vital role in carbon sequestration, biodiversity, and ecosystem services.
Sustainable forestry practices ensure the balance between resource use and conservation.
Veterinary Sciences
Veterinary sciences focus on animal health, welfare, and disease prevention.
It encompasses veterinary medicine, surgery, and diagnostics.
Veterinarians play a crucial role in public health and food safety.
Integrated Management
Integrated management combines various practices for sustainable agriculture and resource use.
It includes integrated pest management, soil conservation, and water management.
Emphasizes the use of technology and innovation for efficient resource utilization.
This lecture provides an overview of the fundamental concepts in agriculture, including its definition, branches, importance, and the role of agro-ecological factors. It introduces key terms and the scope of agricultural sciences for students preparing for competitive exams. Emphasis is placed on the significance of agriculture, horticulture, forestry, veterinary science, and agro-ecology.
Introduction to Agriculture
Agriculture is the science and art of cultivating crops and raising livestock.
It includes soil preparation, planting, crop management, and animal husbandry.
Essential for food, fiber, fuel, and raw materials.
Branches of Agriculture
Agronomy: Study of field crops and soils.
Horticulture: Cultivation of fruits, vegetables, and ornamental plants.
Forestry: Management of forests and forest resources.
Animal Husbandry: Rearing of domestic animals.
Veterinary Science: Animal health and disease management.
Importance of Agriculture
Provides food security and nutrition.
Major source of employment in rural areas.
Supports agro-based industries and exports.
Contributes to national income and economic development.
This presentation covers the production technology of apple (Malus domestica), an important temperate fruit crop. It includes taxonomy, origin, climatic and soil requirements, recommended varieties, major pests and diseases, and management practices. The content is structured for academic and exam preparation, emphasizing key aspects of apple cultivation. Important academic keywords: Malus domestica, chilling requirement, varieties, pest management, apple scab.
Introduction to Apple
Botanical name: Malus domestica; Family: Rosaceae
Origin: Central Asia, including Caucasus and Hindu-Kush Himalayan region
Chromosome number: 2n = 34, 51, 68 (x = 17)
Genus Malus has about 25 species
Importance and Distribution
Major temperate fruit crop, rich in carbohydrates, potassium, phosphorus, and calcium
Introduced in India in 1865 (Kullu Valley, Himachal Pradesh)
Commercially grown in Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand
Also cultivated in NE states and Nilgiri hills
India: ~2.8 lakh ha area, ~1.77 million tonnes production
Climatic and Soil Requirements
Requires 1000–1600 chilling hours; low-chill varieties need 500–800 hours
Optimal summer temperature: 21–24°C; pollination best at 18–22°C
Frost-free spring, mild summer, and 100–125 cm well-distributed rainfall ideal
Prefers deep, fertile, loamy soils with pH 6.0–6.5 and good drainage
Taxonomic Classification and Species
Family: Rosaceae; Genus: Malus
Important species: M. domestica (edible apple), M. floribunda (flowering crab), M. baccata (Siberian crab), M. coronaria (American crab), M. angustifolia (narrow-leaved crab)
Crab apples used as pollinizers and ornamentals
Recommended Varieties in India
Early: Irish Peach, Benoni, Tydeman’s Early Worcester, Mollies Delicious, Anna
Mid-season: Starking Delicious, Red Delicious, Rich-a-Red, Top Red, Scarlet Gala
Late: King Pippin, Golden Delicious, Red Fuji, Granny Smith, Mutsu
Spur types: Red Chief, Oregon Spur, Silver Spur, Well Spur
High Density Planting (HDP) in apple involves increasing tree population per unit area to enhance productivity, fruit quality, and resource use efficiency. This approach utilizes dwarfing rootstocks, specialized training systems, and precise canopy management. HDP is a key innovation in modern apple orcharding, enabling early returns and improved orchard management. Important academic keywords: rootstock, canopy management, training systems, productivity, bioregulators.
Introduction to High Density Planting (HDP) in Apple
HDP increases plant population per unit area for higher fruit yield.
Addresses low productivity and long gestation periods in traditional orchards.
Enables early returns and efficient land use.
Types and Categories of HDP in Apple
Semi-intensive: 500–1,000 trees/ha.
Intensive: 1,000–10,000 trees/ha.
Super-intensive: 10,000–100,000 trees/ha.
Apple-specific: Low (<250), Moderate (250–500), High (500–1,250), Ultra-high (>1,250 trees/ha).
Meadow orcharding: 20,000–70,000 trees/ha.
Key Components of HDP in Apple
Use of dwarf scion varieties and dwarfing/semi-dwarfing rootstocks.
Efficient training and pruning systems.
Application of plant growth regulators.
Adoption of suitable crop management practices.
Advantages of High Density Planting
Maximizes land and resource utilization.
Increases yield per unit area.
Improves fruit quality and uniformity.
Facilitates easier intercultural operations, plant protection, and harvesting.
This presentation covers the cultivation practices of apple (Malus domestica), a major temperate fruit crop. It details origin, economic importance, botany, varieties, climate and soil requirements, propagation, orchard management, plant protection, and post-harvest handling. Key concepts include varieties, propagation, orchard management, disease management, and post-harvest practices.
Introduction to Apple Cultivation
Apple (Malus domestica) belongs to family Rosaceae.
Known as the “king of temperate fruits.”
Major table fruit globally; widely consumed fresh and processed.
Originated in Central Asia; cultivated for over 4000 years.
Origin and Distribution
Origin: Central Asia (Kazakhstan region).
China is the largest producer globally.
In India, major states: Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland.
Apple is the main horticultural crop in Himachal Pradesh.
Area, Production, and Productivity (India, 2001-02)
State
Area (‘000 ha)
Production (‘000 MT)
Productivity (MT/ha)
Jammu & Kashmir
90.1
909.6
10.1
Himachal Pradesh
92.8
180.6
1.9
Uttarakhand
51.8
59.3
1.1
Arunachal Pradesh
6.7
8.5
1.3
Nagaland
0.1
0.3
3.3
All India
241.6
1158.3
4.8
Economic Importance and Nutritional Value
Consumed fresh; also processed into juice, jelly, cider, wine.
Rich in dietary fiber, vitamins (A, B1, B2, C), and minerals (P, Ca, Fe).
One medium apple: ~95 kcal, 0.47g protein, 4.4g fiber.
Apple (Malus domestica) is a major temperate fruit crop known for its high nutritional value and economic importance. This presentation covers the botany, climate requirements, varieties, propagation, orchard management, pest and disease control, and post-harvest practices of apple cultivation. Key academic concepts include rootstocks, chilling requirement, self-incompatibility, high-density planting, and integrated pest management.
Introduction to Apple Cultivation
Apple is called the ‘King of Temperate Fruits’ and is a symbol of health.
Deciduous fruit tree, widely grown in temperate regions worldwide.
India’s main apple-producing states: Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, Uttarakhand.
Apples have a long storage life and high economic value.
Nutritional Value of Apple
Rich in carbohydrates, dietary fiber, vitamins (A, C), and minerals (K, Ca).
Contains antioxidants and phytochemicals beneficial for health.
Brinjal (Solanum melongena), also known as eggplant, is a major vegetable crop in India. This presentation outlines the package of practices for brinjal cultivation, covering climate and soil requirements, varieties, sowing, nutrient and water management, pest and disease control, and harvesting. Key academic concepts include varieties, sowing, nutrient management, pest management, and harvesting.
Introduction to Brinjal
Brinjal (Solanum melongena) is a widely grown vegetable in India.
It is cultivated for its edible fruit, rich in vitamins and minerals.
Suitable for both small-scale and commercial farming.
Climate and Soil Requirements
Grows best in warm, humid climates (21–30°C).
Requires well-drained, fertile loamy soils with pH 6.0–7.0.
Cannot tolerate frost or waterlogging.
Recommended Varieties
Pusa Purple Long, Pusa Purple Cluster, Arka Keshav, Arka Nidhi, Punjab Bahar, and Bhagyamati are popular varieties.
Hybrid varieties offer higher yield and disease resistance.
Seed Rate and Sowing
Seed rate: 400–500 g/ha for open-pollinated, 200–250 g/ha for hybrids.
Sow seeds in raised nursery beds; transplant 4–6 week-old seedlings.
Spacing: 60 x 45 cm (varietal), 75 x 60 cm (hybrid).
Field Preparation and Transplanting
Plough field thoroughly and incorporate organic manure (20–25 t/ha FYM).
Apply basal dose of fertilizers before transplanting.
Transplant healthy seedlings with adequate root ball.
Nutrient Management
Recommended dose: 100–120 kg N, 60–80 kg P2O5, 50–60 kg K2O per hectare.
Apply half N and full P, K as basal; remaining N in two splits after transplanting.
Micronutrients (Zn, B) may be supplemented if deficient.
Irrigation Management
Requires regular irrigation, especially during flowering and fruiting.
Frequency: 7–10 days in winter, 4–5 days in summer.
Avoid waterlogging to prevent root diseases.
Weed and Intercultural Management
Keep field weed-free for first 30–40 days after transplanting.
Hand weeding or hoeing recommended at 20 and 40 days after transplanting.
Mulching helps conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
Major Pests and Their Management
Fruit and shoot borer: Remove infested shoots/fruits; spray insecticides (e.g., Emamectin benzoate 0.002%).
Jassids, aphids, whiteflies: Use neem-based products or recommended insecticides.
Practice crop rotation and use resistant varieties.
Major Diseases and Their Management
Bacterial wilt: Use resistant varieties; avoid waterlogging.
This presentation covers various tomato diseases, including bacterial canker, bacterial spot, wilt, and blight. Each disease is described with its symptoms, conditions for development, and management practices.