Mango malformation
A fungal disease that turns mango flower panicles or new shoots into compact, bunched, cauliflower-like masses that set no fruit.
Also known as: Bunchy top of mango, Floral malformation
Symptoms and identification
Flower panicles become short, thick and densely branched, with many crowded flowers that do not set fruit and stay on the tree as dark, dry clusters. On young plants, shoots develop bunches of small, stiff leaves.
Causes
The fungus Fusarium mangiferae, spread by mango bud mites, infected planting material and pruning tools. It is common in north India.
Organic treatment
Cut off malformed panicles and shoots with 15–20 cm of healthy wood as soon as they appear, and burn or bin them. Prune out affected shoots after harvest.
Prevention
Buy grafted plants from reliable nurseries, and do not take grafting wood from affected trees. Disinfect pruning tools between trees.
Chemical treatment (use with care)
Use a fungicide labelled for mango malformation after pruning, following the label or advice from a local agricultural office.