Utpal Dey

Okra Powdery Mildew: Erysiphe Cichoracearum Utpal Dey

Powdery mildew disease on okra (Abelmoschus esculentusL.) incited by fungus, Erysiphe cichoracearum DC is a limiting factor in the successful cultivation in Marathwada region of Maharashtra State. Survey on farmers field indicated the average incidence and average severity in the range of 87.70 per cent and 52.26 PDI The disease on farmers field was characterized with the appearance of white patches on the upper surface of lower leaves which soon join together to farm large patches. Severely infected plants showed necrosis on leaves, petioles, stem and fruits. On the basis of effectiveness in controlling the powdery mildew disease of okra the most effective fungicides recorded in the order of merit were Karathane (0.1 %), Thiovit (0.3 %) and Tilt (0.1 %). Maximum fruit yield (11.21 t/ha) and highest per cent increase in yield(58.92 per cent) over unsprayed control was recorded in fungicide Karathane sprays followed by Thiovit and Tilt fungicides. Maximum test weight (60.80 g) and maximum increase in test weight (15.94 g) over unsprayed control was also found in fungicide Karathane.