elaichi capsules and shoots rotting and dropping in continuous Idukki rain, losing crop
How to control capsule rot (azhukal) in cardamom during heavy monsoon?
SSebastian7mo ago · 332 views
4 Answers
🌾Farmer.in Krishi TeamExpert ✓7mo ago
Capsule rot or azhukal is a serious monsoon disease of cardamom (Phytophthora) where capsules, shoots and leaves rot and drop in continuous wet weather. Improve drainage so water does not stagnate around clumps, remove and destroy rotten capsules and affected shoots, and regulate shade so the plantation is not too dark and damp. Mulch and trash should not be piled soggy against the base. Prophylactic sprays before and during the monsoon are usually advised, but the fungicide, dose, spray rounds and pre harvest interval must follow your KVK and Spices Board recommendation since timing before the rains is critical and products change. Spraying after the rot has spread badly gives poor results.
JJoy Mathew7mo ago
The protective spray has to go on before the monsoon really sets in, not after the rot starts. The year I sprayed late it was almost useless. Timing before the rains is the whole game with azhukal.
DDevassy7mo ago
I opened drainage channels through my plantation so water does not sit around the clumps, and that cut the rot a lot. Standing water in the continuous rain was feeding the disease. Get the water moving off.
AAntony Joseph7mo ago
Thinning the shade so the plants are not in dark damp all day helped me too. And I clear out the rotten capsules and shoots and burn them instead of leaving them in the field where the rot spreads.