Root disease of coconut

ROOT (WILT) is a major disease of coconut. The symptom of the disease is the characteristic bending of the leaflets termed `flaccidity'. Yellowing of leaves and marginal necrosis are other symptoms.

Rotting of root system, drying of spathe and necrosis of spikelets are also observed in certain cases. The disease is caused by mycoplasma like organism (MLO). It is transmitted by the lace wing bug Stephanitis typica.

The disease was confined to Kerala and few districts in Tamil Nadu. Recently, the disease was observed in Cuddalore district.

The following measures should be scrupulously followed to avoid the spread of the disease in Tamil Nadu and to eradicate it:

- As and when the diseased palms are identified in any coconut garden in Tamil Nadu, they should be immediately removed.

- The garden where the disease was observed should be monitored periodically so that if there is recurrence of the disease, the trees should be removed.

- Infected seedlings should not be transplanted from one place to another.

R. Bhaskaran

Coconut Research Station

TNAU, Veppankulam 6149 06

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