Citrus Sudden Decline Disease in the South of Kerman Province

During recent years, the newly emerging disease, citrus sudden decline (CSD) has destroyed many of citrus trees grafted onto bael rootstock in the south of Kerman Province. The disease is caused by Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus and its simultaneous infection to soil born pathogens or Ca. Phytoplasma aurantifolia, or heat and drought stresses can increase the disease severity and appearance of the decline symptoms. Using the healthy and certified rootstock, using the Sour Orange or Volkamer Lemon as rootstock, control of the sucking insects at the time of flushing, optimum irrigation with appropriate distribution especially during the summer season, control of soil born fungi and nematodes, avoiding stress to plant and appropriate pruning are recommended for prevention and management of CSD disease in the south of Kerman Province.