Increased frequency of phytosanitary pod removal in cacao (Theobroma cacao) increases yield economically in eastern Peru

Diseases caused by Moniliophthora roreri (moniliasis), Crinipellis pernicio sa (witches' broom) and Phytophthora palmivora (black pod) are the most imp ortant factors limiting cocoa production in Peru and cultural management is considered to be the only practical means of control for the smallholder. The objective of this study was to develop an epidemiologically and economi cally sound control recommendation based on the frequency of phytosanitary pod removal. Weekly removal of diseased pods reduced the incidence of disea ses significantly in comparison with fortnightly removal. In three fields, moniliasis was decreased by 26-41%, black pod by 35-66% and witches' broom on pods by 14-57%. The cumulative effect was a consistent yield increase fr om an average of 504-660 kg ha(-1) yr(-1). Returns compensated for increase d labour costs. Weekly pod removal was 32% more profitable. Timecourse anal yses indicated that weekly removal should be practised throughout the year under field conditions of eastern Peru. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.