Problem solver
Identify the problem from the symptom
Twelve common symptoms with likely causes and organic fixes. If unsure, call the Krishi Call Centre on 16123.
| Symptom | Likely cause | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Lower leaves turning yellow | Low nitrogen, or root damage from waterlogging | Improve drainage; add compost or aged manure; water less |
| White powdery coating on leaves | Powdery mildew — crowding and poor airflow | Remove affected leaves; thin plants; water at the base |
| Brinjal shoot wilting and drying | Shoot and fruit borer | Cut and destroy affected shoots and fruit; scout regularly |
| Leaves curling or crinkling | Aphids, mites or a virus | Neem or soapy-water spray; uproot virus-infected plants |
| Dark rot at the bottom of tomato fruit | Uneven watering and calcium problems | Keep moisture even; mulch; add compost and crushed eggshell |
| Seedlings rot at the base and collapse | Damping-off — wet, crowded seedbed | Sow thinly; water less; use clean soil and airflow |
| Holes in leaves, frass on stems | Caterpillars or stem borers | Hand-pick; destroy eggs; cut out infested parts |
| Small gourd fruits yellow and drop | Not pollinated | Hand-pollinate in the morning with a male flower; plant flowers nearby |
| Lush plants but few flowers or fruit | Too much nitrogen or too little sun | Reduce nitrogen; move into more sun; prune tips |
| Fruit splitting | Sudden heavy watering after a dry spell | Regular modest watering; use mulch |
| Brown spots spreading on leaves | Fungal or bacterial leaf spot | Remove affected leaves; avoid wetting foliage; rotate crops |
| Plant wilts suddenly while still green | Bacterial wilt (tomato, brinjal, chili) | Remove plant; avoid the same family there for 2–3 years; use raised beds and good drainage |
Guidance is general. If you ever use chemical pesticides, follow the label and observe the waiting period before harvest.