Bacterial Canker Causing Brown Spots on Lemon Crop: Here’s How to Control It

16 June 2025, New Delhi: If you notice brown, net-like spots appearing on the fruits or twigs of your lemon crop, it’s time to act. Scientists from the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), Pusa, have identified this as an outbreak of bacterial canker. This disease can severely damage lemon crops, and if not treated in time, can lead to a significant drop in yield.

What is Bacterial Canker?

Bacterial canker is an infectious disease that affects lemon plants, primarily appearing as brown lesions on fruits, twigs, and leaves. The disease hampers the plant’s growth and can cause premature fruit drop. It tends to become more aggressive during the monsoon season.

IARI Pusa’s Recommended Control Measures

Experts from IARI Pusa have suggested two key measures for controlling the disease:

Pruning Infected Twigs:

First, identify and prune the affected twigs and completely remove them from the field to prevent the spread of the infection.

Spraying Bordeaux Mixture:

Prepare Bordeaux mixture by mixing 5 kilograms of copper sulphate and 5 kilograms of lime in 100 liters of water. Spray this solution on the plants. This fungicidal and bactericidal mixture forms a protective layer on the plant surface, preventing the bacteria from spreading.

Advisory for Farmers

IARI Pusa has advised lemon growers to monitor their plants at least twice a year — once before the monsoon and once after. Immediate treatment should be applied as soon as initial symptoms appear, and regular pruning should be carried out.

The institute also stated that timely action can help save the crop and maintain both yield and quality.

Farmers are also urged to follow safety precautions while preparing and spraying Bordeaux mixture. For further guidance, farmers can contact IARI Pusa or their nearest Krishi Vigyan Kendra (Agricultural Science Center).

Also Read: Bayer Launches New Insecticide ‘Bicota’ for Managing Stem Borers in Paddy

📢 Reach Farmers, Share Your Story, and Grow Your Brand!
Got news to share? A company story to highlight? Looking to launch an impactful advertising campaign?  Connect with us at info@krishakjagat.org or nimishgangrade@krishakjagat.org and make your mark!

📢 Connect with 100+ Million Farmers! India’s leading farmers rely on Krishak Jagat’s Hindi website for trusted agriculture news, advisory and insights. Click here to explore!