Late blight control is the most critical task for potato and tomato farmers during the rainy season. Known as one of the most destructive plant diseases in Kenya, Late Blight (Phytophthora infestans) can wipe out an entire field in days if the weather is cool and wet.
Target Crops & Damage Symptoms
To achieve effective late blight control, you must identify these symptoms early:
Potatoes: Dark, water-soaked patches on leaves with a “pale halo.” White fungal growth often appears on the leaf undersides during humid mornings.
Tomatoes: Large, irregular greenish-black spots on leaves and stems. Fruits develop hard, brown, marbled spots that make them unsellable.
Prevention and Late Blight Control
Late Blight thrives in high humidity. Use these strategies to lower your risk:
Scouting: Check your crops daily during the rainy season, specifically the lower leaves where moisture lingers.
Hilling: For potatoes, ensure tubers are well-covered with soil to prevent spores from washing down from the leaves.
Pruning: Remove lower tomato leaves to improve air circulation and reduce leaf wetness.
Kenagro Recommended Solutions
For professional late blight control, Kenagro Suppliers Ltd offers a range of systemic and contact fungicides:
Tajiri 720WP: Use 40g per 20L of water. This is our premier dual-action fungicide (Mancozeb + Cymoxanil). It provides a protective barrier while killing the fungus inside the leaf.
Stopdew 250WP: Mix 30g per 20L of water. A powerful systemic solution (Metalaxyl-M + Propamocarb) that is excellent for high-pressure situations, providing curative control.
Pablo 600WG: Apply 20g to 30g per 20L of water. A broad-spectrum fungicide perfect for managing both Early and Late Blight simultaneously.
Vanguard 525WG: Use 10g to 15g per 20L of water. A high-performance granule (Cymoxanil + Famoxadone) that is highly resistant to being washed off by rain.
Late Blight FAQ
Q: What is the best product for Late Blight control?
A: Tajiri 720WP is highly recommended for its dual-action protection. For farmers facing an active outbreak during heavy rains, Stopdew
Q: How often should I spray for Late Blight?
A: For effective late blight control, spray every 7 days during dry spells and every 3 to 5 days during continuous rainy or foggy weather when disease pressure is extreme.
Q: Can I use Tajiri 720WP on roses?
A: Yes, Tajiri 720WP is also very effective at controlling Downy Mildew in roses and other ornamental plants at the same dosage of 40g per 20L.
Q: Why did my crop die even after spraying?
A: Late Blight moves very fast. If the spray is applied too late or if you use a contact-only fungicide during heavy rain, the disease can bypass the treatment. Always use a systemic option like Stopdew 250WP for better results in wet weather.
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