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Fruit rotting in field

Cigar end

Affected areas are dark and in later stages are covered by ashy grey spores © Department of Primary Industries
Close up of later stage covered by ashy grey spores © Department of Primary Industries

Cause: The fungus Musicillium theobromae (formerly known as Verticillium theobromae). It enters the fruit from the dead floral parts and extends 10 to 20 mm into the fruit. 

Solution: Cigar end is a minor disease and specific control measures are not warranted. 

Mixed ripe

Bunch ripens prematurely in the field, making the bunch unmarketable © Department of Primary Industries

Cause: Various stresses (severe leaf spot, pest damage, water and nutrition) reduce the rate of fruit filling. 

Solution: Improve crop management to limit stresses on the plant.

Sunburn

© Department of Primary Industries

Cause: Insufficient bunch shading during prolonged high temperatures. 

Solution: There is no cure for affected fruit. Maintain good canopy cover and ensure bunch covers are applied properly. It may be necessary to pull a leaf down over the bunch for protection.