Scientists alert Thanjavur farmers over ‘wilt’ disease in coconut trees

Thanjavur: Coconut farmers of Pattukkottai are in a catch 20 situation because recently the witnessed some unusual symptoms in their trees, like emission of juice from the base of the trees. This happenings raised the alarm bell, therefore, the Horticulture Department in Thanjavur, along with scientists from the Coconut Research Station in Veppankulam, reached the spot and conducted a field inspection. Finally they called it a fungal disease named ‘Thanjavur wilt’, which is common in coastal regions during summer.

The disease badly hit coconut groves due to poor maintenance, especially those on sandy soils. Key symptoms include sap oozing up to three feet from the trunk base, trunk rot, yellowing and drying of fronds, root decay, and early nut fall. In advanced cases, beetle attacks and fungal growth can also be seen.

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Horticulture officials explained that the disease is caused by Ganoderma lucidum, a soil- and water-borne fungus that can survive for years. To control the disease, infected trees must be removed immediately. Farmers are advised not to share irrigation between trees and instead use drip irrigation. Applying bordeaux mixture at the base and using hexaconazole as a root treatment every three months are key steps in disease management.

The Horticulture Department organized a training camp a couple of days ago in Ponnvarayankottai village where experts revealed disease symptoms and then told how to overcome from such issues. Several scientists, farmers and top brass of the department took part in this training camp.

The department advised block-levels officers to go for field checks and wherever needed carry out demonstrations linking both farmers and horticulture scientists. Early detection and its proper treatment are essential to prevent the spread of this dangerous wilt.