Browsing by Author "Alfonso, Angie I."

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    Management Practices and diagnosetic confirmation of post-harvest fungal diseases in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) in selected municipalities of La Union
    (Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University- North La Union Campus, 2024-05) Alfonso, Angie I.
    Tomato is a highly sought crop in the world with substantial income potential in both local and international markets, yet it faces persistent challenges from various pathogens, including postharvest fungal diseases that significantly reduce yield. This study aimed to document the cultural practices and disease management strategies employed by farmers to control postharvest fungal diseases of tomatoes in La Union. A descriptive research survey and laboratory procedures for disease identification were utilized. Survey revealed that financial constraints stemming from low income, coupled with issues related to harvest timing and crop failures worsened by market fluctuations, impede effective disease management. These challenges are further compounded by suboptimal cultural practices and inadequate postharvest handling methods, such as improper sanitation, lack of pre-cooling, insufficient sorting and grading, absence of proper storage facilities, neglect of postharvest treatments, misuse of pesticides, and irregular irrigation practices, which inadvertently contribute to pathogen spread. Based on the procedures of Koch’s Postulate, the major fungal diseases threatening post harvest tomatoes in La Union were identified as early blight caused by Phytophthora sp., fruit rots caused by Fusarium sp. and Alternaria sp. These diseases are frequently misdiagnosed by farmers as calcium deficiency. To address these issues, it is recommended to implement Farmer Field Schools (FFS) supported by Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) materials tailored to the specific findings of this study. This approach aims to foster knowledge exchange and improve practices for disease control and management among tomato farmers.