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Amazing truth: How to identify hidden symptoms of anthracnose in grapes?
For grape growers, there are many challenges in ensuring a healthy crop. Of these, anthrax (caused by Elsinoë ampelina) is undoubtedly one of the most threatening diseases. This disease not only affects the yield of grapes, but also affects the quality of grapes and the overall economy. The threat of this disease is particularly urgent at a time of global climate change. So, how can we identify the symptoms of anthracnose in advance and protect our grapes?
Disease identification
The symptoms of anthracnose on grapes are specific and indicative. First, circular spots called "bird's eye spots" appear on the grapes. These spots are red in color and will transition from light to dark over time, forming sunken black or gray lesions. The lesions are also evident on leaves and new shoots. The initial symptoms appear as small red round spots, which then expand and become gray and sunken, with the edges changing color to dark red or purple-black. If not controlled, these lesions can cause the entire shoot to die.
Anthracnose can not only cause the death of the plant, but also significantly reduce its ability to photosynthesize, affecting the growth of the entire grape plant.
Pathological cycle
During the disease life cycle, Elsinoë ampelina survives the winter by producing sclerotia, which are important reproductive structures. During the rainy season, the pathogen uses spores produced by water to infect new and tender tissues. If conditions are right, the time from germination to the appearance of symptoms may be as short as 4 days, which makes early identification and control extremely important.
Environmental impact
Grape anthracnose prefers warm and humid conditions, especially rainy seasons or high humidity climates. In addition, the spread of the pathogen is usually mediated by water droplets splashed by rain, which means that local soil drainage is poor or the air circulation of bamboo poles is poor, which may increase the risk of disease outbreaks.
The threats hidden beneath these symptoms are lurking like scuba diving, and could cause severe damage to the fate of grapes at any time.
Disease Management
The most effective way to control grapevine anthracnose is to maintain good hygiene practices, including regularly removing infected branches and leaves to reduce the potential reservoir of the disease. In addition, planting varieties that are resistant to the disease can significantly reduce the risk. In terms of applying chemical agents, the most critical time is before the buds sprout in spring. At this time, lime sulfur solution can be used to reduce the presence of pathogens.
Economic impact
With the spread of anthracnose, the quality and yield of grapes will undoubtedly be seriously affected, which is undoubtedly a major blow to wineries that rely on high-quality grapes to produce fine wines. After many battles against diseases, many industry players may be wondering: How to strike a balance between protecting resources and economic interests?
What else can we do to protect grapes from anthracnose and ensure sustainable agricultural production?
