Identifying and Controlling Major Passion Fruit Diseases for Increased Yields of Quality Passion Fruits

Abstract

Passion fruit is a key fruit produced commercially in Kenya and ranks third among the export fruits. The production of passion fruits and its growth as a profitable enterprise however, depends on the maximum utilization of the factors of production while reducing costs. One of the major challenges encountered by passion fruit farmers is the incidences of diseases. These can reduce yields of fruits by upto 90% or lead to total crop failure. Identification of the disease and controlling them at their initials stages is a sure way of increasing yields of quality fruits that will compete effectively in the market with fruits from other areas.