Fruit Splitting

Fruit split Common name Fruit split Dehiscence Causal agent Fruit split is a non-pathological plant disorder caused by variable temperatures and water supply. It is common in areas where a dry spell is followed by heavy rains. The fruit skin hardens during the dry season and splits when the fruit absorbs water during the rain. Although it can appear on any fruit, citrus fruits are more prone to developing split skin. Symptoms & Signs It appears as cracked or split skin on the fruits. This may lead to several diseases since the pathogens can enter through the cracks. Mature, ripened fruits are more likely to develop cracks since the skin is fragile at that time. Time of concern Throughout the crop growing season Common hosts Tomato Orange Mandarin Apple Pear