The Incidence and Severity of Pathogenic Fungal Diseases on Tomato Plants in Irasa Farm Cluster, Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria

Abstract

Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) is a globally significant crop. Today, tomatoes are valued for their taste, color, flavor, and nutritional content, making them a popular choice for both fresh consumption and processing.  However, its production is severely threatened by fungal diseases, leading to substantial yield losses. This study evaluated the incidence and severity of major fungal diseases affecting tomato plants.  The study was carried out in the Irasa Farm Cluster, Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria, through a survey across eight farms using a modified disease severity scale. A comprehensive survey was conducted utilizing a randomized sampling approach for data collection. On each farm, a random sample of 30 tomato plants was chosen, following a diagonal pattern, and assessed for disease incidence and severity. The collected data on disease incidence and severity were subjected to statistical analysis, and the results were summarized as mean percentage values for each farm. The survey revealed the prevalence of early blight (Alternaria solani) (50.6%), Fusarium wilt (Fusarium oxysporum) (Farm E - 53.83% and Farm A- 40.32%), Septoria rot (Septoria lycopersici), powdery mildew (Leveillula taurica), and Sclerotium rot (Sclerotium rolfsii) at the study location. Fusarium wilt had the highest incidence, while early blight was the most severe. Sclerotium rot and Septoria rot incidence and severity were minimal at the study site. There is a need for farmer education and integrated disease management approaches in managing these fungal diseases for sustainable food production and food security. The introduction of cultivars resistant to Fusarium wilt and early blight should be introduced to enhance tomato production sustainability. Effective management of fungal diseases affecting tomatoes requires a multi-faceted approach. Recommended practices include crop rotation, sanitation, timely fungicide application, seed treatment, and nursery bed treatment.