Introduction

Nutmeg, myristica fragrans Hoult.

Nutmeg a valuable spice crop, growing nutmeg can be incredibly rewarding but as other crops it also comes with some challenges. Diseases that can impact the quality, health and yield of the plant. So, how can the diseases be prevented and get a good harvest and maintain a healthy plant. For doing this understanding of the problem is important so, here are some information’s about the diseases their symptoms and management practices that is carried on.

Major diseases of Nutmeg

Leaf spot and shot hole

Symptoms: 

Initial symptoms are sunken spots surrounded by yellow halo 

Central portion of the necrotic region drops and appear shot hole 

Mature branches are observed with dieback symptoms

Drying of leaves is seen in young seedling

Cause:

It is caused by Collectotrichum gloeosporoides

Management:

Bordeaux mixture 1% is sprayed 

Two to three times during rainy seasons

Fruit rot

Symptoms:

Water soaked lesions can be seen in the fruits

The tissues become discoloured 

Premature splitting and rotting of seed are some main symptoms of this disease

The internal tissues are rotten 

The growth of the organism in fallen fruits

Cause:

It is caused by Collectotrichum gloeosporioides & Botryodiplodia theobromae 

Management:

Spraying 1% Bordeaux mixture can control the disease

Conclusion

Managing of disease in nutmeg requires a integrated approach, this can be implemented by maintaining a clean environment and proper sanitation, taking care and regular examining of the plant is important for the cultivation of nutmeg. Early act of disease can be good in managing the disease and cultivating a healthy nutmeg.