Assessment of diseases and insect pests of apple (Malus domestica Borkh) in Silte Zone, Southern Ethiopia

Assessment research was conducted in six Kebeles (administrative units) of Mirab azerenet and Alicho wuriro Districts of Silte Zone in 2021/21 cropping season, to assess the prevalence and damage of diseases and insect pests of apple and growers experience on pest identification and its management. A total of 60 apple growers were interviewed using a semi-structured questionnaire. Powdery mildew and apple scab were more damaging diseases of apple fruit tree in the area and they imply economic threat if not managed and also green apple aphid was the only recorded insect pest that caused leaf curling of apple fruit tree. About 71.7% of respondents were responded powdery mildew as number one disease of apple that hinders apple production. About 76.7% of producers were answered that they didnt identified insect pests that attack their apple fruit tree. Out of the total respondents 90% (for diseases) and 16.7% (for insects) responded that, winter season was primary period for occurrence of these pests in their apple orchard/nursery. Out of the respondents 61.7% and 85% (for diseases and insect pests) responded that they dont have any information about management methods. About 85% of respondents replied that, they dont prune their apple fruit tree in the optimum season and also they dont know its importance and the method. Generally, the result of current assessment revealed that, awareness of growers on crop agronomy, pest type and its infestation season, and management measures that taken so far were not encouraging. Based on the results of our survey, we recommend the following; timely awareness of apple fruit tree; agronomy, improvement and protection should be provided for growers by agricultural extension workers and other agents.