Navsari Agricultural University
Pests:
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(1) Banana stem borer: Larva feeds on corm. Leaves turn yellow, weather & plant dies. Controlled by clean cultivation.
(2) Banana Aphids : They are the vectors of virus of ‘bunchy top’ disease. Can be controlled by spraying Dimethoate or Melathion, (10 ml in 10 lit water).
(3) Nematodes :Affected plants do not respond to fertilizers, irrigation, cultural practices etc. Root become reddish & rot. It can be controlled by (1) Treating plant material with Furadon granular insecticide. (2) Use nematicide.

Diseases:
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(1) Panama disease OR Banana wilt :- Soil borne fungal disease. Gets entry through roots. Serious in poorly drained soils.Yellow leaves hang on the stem. Not serious in Gujarat. Can be controlled by (1) Planting of resistant varieties like Basrai or poovan. (2) Uproot the affected plant & burn.
(2) Bunch Top : It is a viral disease transmitted through vector Aphid. Plant remain stunted & produce poor bunch. Can be controlled by. (1) Destroying affected plants with rhizome. (2) Spray insecticide to control aphids.
(3) Leaf spot OR Sigatoka disease :- It is a fungal disease. Light yellow spots which become dark brown on the leaf. Killing of large part of leaf. Gross Michael & Cavendish are highly succeptible. Can be controlled by. (1) Improving drainage & reducing humidity in plantation. (2)Remove affected leaves (3) Spray Dithane M-45.
Premature ripening of fruits:- Observed in Kheda, Bharauch & Surat regions. Leaves become yellowish, red spots on leaves. Fruit ripen earlier. Can be controlled by. (1) Dusting 300 mesh sulphur (16 kg/ha.) (2) Spray 0.025 % Carbendazim at one months interval.
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