DiseaseMedium Severity

Bacterial Blight

Xanthomonas spp.

A bacterial disease caused by Xanthomonas species that enters plants through wounds or natural openings. The bacteria move systemically through the plant, causing severe leaf blight with characteristic water-soaked lesions and yellow borders.

Peak Season: Most active during warm, humid weather. Spreads rapidly during rainy periods and high humidity conditions.
Bacterial blight symptoms showing wilting and browning of leaves

Identification & Symptoms

What to Look For

Small, water-soaked, circular lesions with irregular borders
Initial symptoms appear near leaf margins
Water-soaked areas visible on leaf undersides
Lesions enlarge and coalesce over 7-14 days
Brown centers with greenish-yellow borders
Irregularly shaped spots bordered by lemon yellow ring (diagnostic)
Lesions in interveinal areas or leaf edges
Premature senescence and leaf drop
Yellow slimy ooze under favorable conditions

Potential Damage

Severe defoliation from leaf death
Reduced photosynthetic capacity
Weakened plant vigor
Premature leaf drop
Reduced plant aesthetics
Secondary infection opportunities
Poor seed quality if pods affected

Lifecycle

Bacteria enter through wounds, stomata, or hydathodes. Once inside, they move systemically through the vascular system. The disease progresses rapidly under favorable conditions of high humidity and moderate temperatures. Bacteria can survive on plant debris and be spread by water, wind, and mechanical means.

Professional Treatment Approach

1

Remove and destroy infected plant material

2

Improve air circulation around plants

3

Avoid overhead irrigation

4

Apply copper-based bactericides preventively

5

Disinfect tools between plants

6

Plant resistant varieties when available

Recommended Mauget Products

Arborfos (Potassium phosphite)

Professional-grade treatment specifically effective against bacterial blight.

View Product Details

Copper-based bactericides

Professional-grade treatment specifically effective against bacterial blight.

View Product Details

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