Growers Learn New Methods to Control Black Sigatoka

The Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation (EMBRAPA), in collaboration with the Brazilian Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock, conducted a series of trainings that aim to teach banana growers new techniques of controlling the black sigatoka, a dreaded banana disease common in Brazil. Caused by the fungus Mycosphaerella fijiensis, the disease is the primary reason for the decrease in productivity and economic losses of banana producers in the country.

One of the most effective ways to control the black sigatoka disease is the use of banana cultivars resistant to Mycosphaerella. To this end, five banana varieties resistant to the disease were developed and are now recommended for planting by EMBRAPA. Another technique is the application of fungicides, such as flutriafol and azoxystrobin formulations, on specific locations on the plant. This technique is effective and low cost because it reduces the number of sprays required per production cycle.

For more details, visit http://www.embrapa.br/embrapa/imprensa/noticias/2009/maio/2a-semana/tecnicos-aprendem-novo-metodo-de-controle-da-sigatoka-negra-no-acre