Oily stain is a challenge for the passion fruit crop

Brazil maintains global leadership in passion fruit production and consumption, accounting for approximately 70% of the global volume. According to sector data, the country produces nearly 700 thousand tons annually, distributed across approximately 46 thousand hectares of cultivated land. The production chain, of strong social and economic relevance, supports domestic supply and generates income for farmers of different profiles, including small producers. Despite the expansion of the crop, phytosanitary challenges continue to limit the performance of orchards, especially in areas of high humidity. Among these, the greasy spot stands out, a bacterial disease that compromises productivity. Experts warn that, without proper management, losses can exceed 80%. The incidence of greasy spot is more intense in the Northeast, especially in the Serra da Ibiapaba (CE), where cultivation occurs year-round. According to Ricardo Joaquim Carvalho da Silva, technical commercial representative ...