ZDDT Agri-extension Helps Market Gardeners

Sooty Mould grows in the honeydew or secretion of many common plant pests, such as aphids or scale. The pests cover the leaves of the plant in the honeydew and the Sooty Mould spore lands on the honeydew and begins to reproduce.

During a discussion on the trust's Garden Information Platform group, the Zimbabwe Development Democracy Trust (ZDDT) Horticulture Consultant, Yvonne Berkhout, said Sooty Mould is an economically significant pest as it depletes the tree of nutrients with a subsequent impact on the tree’s ability to produce fruit.

“The chemical Malathion is very effective in treating Sooty Mould. Firstly, you fill your knapsack spray with 10 liters of clean water, add 12ml of Malathion, and shake well to mix. Spray the whole tree on both sides of the leaves tree until it is dripping wet. Repeat the same process after 10 days. Always ensure that you are wearing protective overalls, gloves and a mask when handling chemicals,” she said.

ZDDT’ s projects endeavour to include capacity building, team building and business and agri-training. People’s participation, that leads to ownership and tolerance of the differing views and allegiances of the individual, is a central message.