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Botrytis Blight in Kiwi Fruit
How to identify and treat botrytis blight in Kiwi Fruit.
potted_plant
Kiwi Fruit care requirements
water
Water regularly to keep soil consistently moist, especially during flowering and fruit development. Provide 1–2 inches of water weekly; reduce in winter. Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
soil
Prefers well-draining, slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.0–7.0) rich in organic matter. Avoid waterlogged or compacted soils; amend with compost.
light
Full sun; requires 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal fruit sweetness and ripening.
symptoms
Symptoms to look for in Kiwi Fruit
- fiber_manual_recordFuzzy grey-brown mould on flowers, leaves, or stems
- fiber_manual_recordWater-soaked spots that turn brown and mushy
- fiber_manual_recordBlighted flower buds that fail to open
help
Common causes in Kiwi Fruit
Caused by the fungus Botrytis cinerea (grey mould), which thrives in cool, humid conditions with poor air circulation, often spreading rapidly on damaged or ageing plant tissue.
healing
How to treat botrytis blight in Kiwi Fruit
Remove and destroy all affected plant material immediately, improve airflow around the plant, and apply a fungicide labelled for Botrytis if the infection is spreading.
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Preventing botrytis blight in Kiwi Fruit
Avoid overhead watering and overcrowding, water at soil level, deadhead spent flowers promptly, and ensure good ventilation, especially in humid weather.