A REVIEW ON RECENT METHODS TO CONTROL EARLY BLIGHT OF TOMATO (Solanum lycopersicum L.)

The present review paper is focused on bringing forth the different methods used in controlling early blight disease of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.). It is a well-known fact that tomato is a main fruit consumed as a vegetable globally which provides important minerals, vitamins, fibres and antioxidants. However, tomato is susceptible to an array of diseases, of which early blight is the most destructive instigated by Alternaria solani, affects fruits and foliage resulting in a loss of 80% yields. Therefore, it becomes imperative to discuss the various strategies applied in controlling early blight of tomato. A number of researchers have used diverse methods to regulate early blight disease of tomato ranging from use of fungicides, plant extracts to several biological organisms. Nevertheless, it is equally important to develop and apply the most efficient management systems and good agricultural practices to rescue the plant of interest.