Abstract:
Anthracnose, powdery mildew and rust are the major fungal diseases affecting mango, avocado, apple, guava and pawpaw fruits in the
field and after harvest. These diseases affect all stages of plant growth causing damage to leaves, stems, flowers & fruits. Moist conditions
and high humidity are primary factors in the spread and development of fungal diseases. Spores of the pathogens are dispersed mainly by
splashing rain, wind, field tools, animals, planting materials, etc. Fungal diseases cause several kinds of rot, blights, die back, necrosis,
blotch, spots, mildew, flower and fruit abortion. Besides fungal diseases, bacteria infections are also of great economic importance and
cause heavy losses in fruit production in the SWAEZ.