What is repilo and how is it treated?

Repilo damage in olive tree

Image - Innovagri.es

Olive trees, although they are characterized by being one of the most resistant fruit trees, the reality is that they can also be affected by a series of microorganisms which are capable of ending their life. One of the most dangerous is the fungus Spilocaea oleagina, which causes the repilo.

The repilo is, for many, a serious problem, since in addition to affecting the leaves it can also spoil the olives. But, How is it treated?

Symptoms and damage of the repilo

El Spilocaea oleaginaLike all mushrooms, it is favored by a warm and humid environment. But that does not mean that we can lower our guard in winter: it is able to survive in a temperature of 8ºC, so can be spread throughout the year, especially in the rainy season.

Once the mycelium of the fungus settles on the leaves, it penetrates into the epidermis and begins to grow and multiply. After a while, circular spots or chlorotic rings form on the upper part of the leaves. As the disease progresses, the leaf ends up losing chlorophyll, turns yellow and dies.

Treatment and Prevention

The treatment consists of applying fungicides such as copper oxychloride, copper sulfate, Difenoconazole, or Dodine. It is very important to read the product label and follow its directions. In addition, the use of gloves -preferably rubber- is mandatory to avoid problems.

Fortunately, we can do several things to prevent this disease:

  • Prune the cup: it is convenient that it has good aeration so that the fungus cannot do anything.
  • Treatments with fungicides as preventives: Throughout the year, preventive treatments with fungicides that contain copper should be done.
  • Water and fertilize: a well-cared for olive tree will be less likely to get sick. More information here.
  • Plant resistant olive varieties: such as Frantoio, Farga, Arbosana, Korneiki, Manzanilla de Hellín, Villalonga or Lechín de Sevilla.

Centennial olive tree in Mallorca

I hope this article has been useful to you.


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