What’s going on with this peach?
This peach is completely covered with brown rot (Monilinia fructicola). Brown rot is one of the most significant diseases of peaches, plums, and nectarines. As the fruit is consumed by the fungi, it shrivels up into what’s known as a “mummy”. Mummified fruit falls to the ground and remains throughout the winter, providing a source of inoculum for the next season. Managing brown rot requires a strict fungicide program, and is one of the main reasons growing peaches is best left to farmers.
Peach season is wide open in South Carolina, and growers are having a great harvest so far. Head on out to a roadside stand, grab a basket of fresh peaches, and support a local grower!
This week’s question is from Justin Ballew, Extension Fruit and Vegetable Research Associate.
The South Carolina Grower 