Publication: Management Practices and diagnosetic confirmation of post-harvest fungal diseases in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) in selected municipalities of La Union
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Date
2024-05
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Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University- North La Union Campus
Abstract
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.
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Alfonso,A.I. (2024). Management Practices and diagnosetic confirmation of post-harvest fungal diseases in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) in selected municipalities of La Union[Unpublished Undergraduate Thesis, Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University- North La Union Campus, Bacnotan, La Union].