Also known as “black rot,” this disease is caused by the Phytophthora fungus and spreads more easily in humid, temperate, or even warm (15/27°C) atmospheric conditions. The responsible species of this disease may vary from year to year. Symptoms and damage: Appearance of yellowish spots that quickly turn brown. On the underside of the leaves, a gray-white fuzz, where spores emerge, can be observed. Generally, the entry points of shoots, leaves, and fruits are the first affected areas. Leaves are the first to be affected, followed by stems, and ultimately, fruits. Control methods: Prevention forms the most effective means of control. When the disease is diagnosed, the infected plant is considered almost lost. It is necessary to plant seedlings you have grown from your own seeds or those hardened through rooting. Mixing different varieties (early, late, disease-resistant, high-yielding…) signifies an advantage in preventing the spread of the disease on affected plants. Avoid excessive irrigation, thin leaves sporadically, and regularly prune between plants to facilitate air circulation. Cover material is also a good way to reduce humidity; drip irrigation allows watering without wetting the leaves. The use of plant extracts (ferns/chestnut/nettle) as a preventive measure will strengthen the plant and make it more resistant to attacks. Additionally, spraying with black soap mixed with baking soda can be effective for better adhesion on leaves. Fermented extract of milk thistle (use dry leaves) diluted by 20% and sprayed three times at 10-day intervals is also very effective. The use of “Bouillie Bordelaise” (Bordeaux mixture), which was widely used in the past, is not recommended in the long run because this solution has a polluting effect on the environment (heavy metals). Indeed, copper in its composition does not dissolve in the soil and can be harmful to the life of soil microorganisms.

Also known as powdery mildew disease, this condition is caused by fungi belonging to the Erysiphaceae family. Unlike other fungi, these fungi can reproduce even in dry weather. Additionally, a wide temperature range between night and day is a exacerbating factor. Symptoms and damage: Yellow spots on the upper surface of leaves and the formation of white powdery growth on the lower surface. Yellowing, drying, and falling of leaves. It significantly affects young organs. Mineral deficiency exacerbates this disease. On the other hand, it is never visible on fruits. Control methods: The use of a Sulphur-containing Bordeaux mixture or a garlic infusion with added milk (milk serves as both an adhesive and an antifungal agent) helps suppress powdery mildew while preserving the environment and soil fertility. Sulfur infusions or sprays are still very effective in controlling this disease. Remove the base leaves affected by the disease and stimulate growth with nitrogen supplementation (nettle liquid). For crops grown in tunnels, it is necessary to ventilate as much as possible to prevent excessive heat. As a preventive measure, a spray mixed with milk and water (in a 10% ratio) can be applied. This spray will have an effect on eliminating powdery mildew and strengthening the plant’s immune defenses at the same time.