AsaaseYaaBlack sigatoka
A leaf spot disease of plantain. Streaks turn into black patches and the leaves die early.
What it looks like
Every field looks a little different. If you are not sure, ask in the app’s Farmers, or ask an agronomist.
When it comes
| Crop | Stage | Check |
|---|---|---|
| Plantain | Establishment | Scout monthly |
| Plantain | Vegetative growth | Scout every 2 weeks |
| Plantain | Flowering | Scout every 2 weeks |
What to look for
Once a month, check the base of each plant. Small holes with sawdust-looking dust around them = banana weevils tunnelling inside — they're the worst pest for plantain in Ghana. Always plant clean suckers from a healthy farm; don't take suckers from old or sick plants.
Every 2 weeks, look at the leaves. Yellow streaks that grow into big brown patches = a serious leaf disease called black sigatoka. Cut off infected leaves and burn them — never use them as mulch, you'll spread the disease.
Keep checking leaves for the yellow-streak disease. Also watch the developing fingers — rust-coloured scarring on the skin = thrips. The plantains are still good to eat but harder to sell at top price.
What to do
Leaf spot disease
A fungus or bacteria that spreads in wet, warm weather.
- Pick off spotted leaves and take them far from the field. Burn or bury them.
- Water the soil, not the leaves, and water in the morning so the leaves dry.
- If it spreads fast, ask the agro-shop for a fungicide made for your crop (often copper-based) and follow the label.
Don’t: Do not leave sick leaves on the ground. Wash your hands and tools before touching healthy plants.
Also watch for
General advice from crop guides for Ghana. Before you spray, ask your agro-input dealer for a product registered for this pest, read the label, and wear gloves. For a serious attack, call your district agriculture office or an agronomist.
Catch it early
AsaaseYaa reminds you when to check your crop for pests, and shows you what to look for. Free.