Target leaf spot

Symptom

The disease begins from the lower leaves and gradually spreads upward toward the upper parts of the plant. Early symptoms appear as irregularly shaped spots with yellow halos. As the disease progresses, the lesions develop into larger spots with a light brown center and dark brown margins. These lesions may expand into circular areas that turn grayish to light brown and resemble concentric rings. Due to this ring-like pattern, the condition is commonly referred to as “Target Spot.” The infected spots enlarge significantly over time, causing the leaves to dry out and fall off. Although the lesions may resemble those of early blight, target spot lesions are typically larger in size. The disease also affects stems and branches. When it spreads to the fruit, the tissue becomes necrotic, turning dark and eventually leading to complete fruit rot.