Integrated management of phytophthora diseases of durian: recommendations and benefit-cost analysis

Abstract

Durian is a favourite fruit throughout Southeast Asia. Increasing areas have been planted to durian orchards in recent years, especially in the Mekong Delta and southeastern provinces of Vietnam, in marginal areas of Thailand and in northern Australia. Durian growers face significant losses due to phytophthora diseases, and there is an urgent need for recommendations to control these diseases. Integrated disease management recommendations, based on an understanding of the biology of the pathogen, optimal growing conditions and soil health, promise sustainable durian production with minimal environmental impact. We have developed integrated orchard management recommendations based on an appreciation of the natural rainforest conditions in which durians co-evolved with the pathogen.