Effective Control of Durian Fungal Diseases in Malaysia
Durian is one of Malaysia’s most high-value crops, playing an important role in the country’s agricultural economy. However, durian orchards are increasingly threatened by fungal diseases, particularly Phytophthora and Rhizoctonia, which can severely damage tree health and reduce overall productivity.
Malaysia’s humid tropical climate, combined with frequent rainfall and wet soil conditions, creates an ideal environment for these pathogens to thrive. If not addressed promptly, infections can spread rapidly, stunt tree growth, reduce yields, and in severe cases, lead to the death of young trees.
The Solution: Cocoly + Horizon
Aligned with Farmland Solutions Sdn Bhd’s Simplified Farming (NongFangNongFa) philosophy, the combination of Cocoly and Horizon provides a simplified and effective approach to durian disease management. This solution reduces complexity, improves efficiency, and makes orchard management more practical and sustainable.
Key Benefits
Disease Suppression
Effectively prevents and suppresses Phytophthora and Rhizoctonia in trunks, branches, and root zones.
Strengthens Tree Immunity
Enhances natural tree resistance, promoting healthier growth and improved yields.
Easy Application
Fully water-soluble formulations allow easy and convenient application, streamlining orchard management.
Long-Lasting Protection
Provides durable protection, maintaining durian tree health over time.
The Hidden Threats in Your Soil
Phytophthora Infection
Phytophthora is a soil-borne pathogen commonly found in durian orchards with poor drainage and prolonged waterlogging. It spreads rapidly during periods of heavy rainfall, attacking the roots and lower trunk, and disrupting water and nutrient uptake.
Key Symptoms:
Rotting roots and collars that weaken tree stability
Dark lesions near the base of the trunk
Rapid leaf yellowing, wilting, and defoliation
In severe cases, complete tree collapse
Rhizoctonia Infection
Rhizoctonia is a soil-borne fungal pathogen that thrives in warm and humid conditions. It is often associated with compacted soils and poor aeration, targeting the root zone and collar area, and affecting overall tree establishment.
Key Symptoms:
Root and collar decay near the soil surface
Reduced root function and nutrient absorption
Leaf yellowing or uneven growth despite fertilisation
Slower establishment in young trees
The Cost of Inaction: Impact on Orchards and Industry
Effects on Trees and Orchards
Reduced Vigor: Weakened canopy health and slower tree growth
Yield Loss: Reduced fruit quantity and quality
Higher Mortality: Increased tree death, especially in young orchards
Economic and Industry Impacts
Market Instability: Reduced supply and price fluctuations
Higher Costs: Increased labour, monitoring, and repeated treatments
Export Risk: Inconsistent quality affecting export competitiveness
Smallholder Losses: Income risks for durian-dependent farmers
Testimonial 1: Recovery from Phytophthora
Timeline: 6 June 2022 – 19 December 2022
Observation:
After applying Cocoly and Horizon, affected trees showed significant recovery, with stronger roots, healthier leaves, and improved canopy growth.
Testimonial 2: Healthier New Leaves
Observation:
Newly grown leaves became greener and healthier after treatment, indicating improved tree vitality and stronger resistance to fungal infection.
Testimonial 3 - Improvement of Phytophthora-Affected Areas
Observation:
1 Month: Visible recovery in affected trunk and root areas
3 Months: Healthy roots appeared near the soil surface with improved trunk condition
Testimonial 4: Progressive Recovery Over Time
Timeline: 17 January 2019 – 13 May 2019
Observation:
Within one month, visible improvement was observed. Continued recovery over three months showed healthy root development and sustained tree resilience.
Sustainable Durian Cultivation in Malaysia
Fungal diseases such as Phytophthora and Rhizoctonia remain major challenges for durian cultivation in Malaysia. Preventive measures and early intervention are essential to protect tree health, reduce losses, and maintain stable yields.
Farmland’s NongFangNongFa Solution, combined with Cocoly and Horizon, simplifies durian disease management by strengthening tree resilience, controlling infections effectively, and supporting healthier, more productive orchards—even under Malaysia’s challenging tropical growing conditions.