is said to be present in West Africa, the Pacific and the Far East. In the Western Hemisphere, it has been reported in Mexico, Guatemala, Belize, El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Panama, Brazil, Colombia, Venezuela, Bahamas, South Florida, Cuba, Haiti, Jamaica, Trinidad and now the Dominican Republic. This fungus attacks banana and plantain trees without mercy! It starts by forming small spots on the back of the leaf and then rapidly progresses until the life is sapped out of the plant. Here in the T.E.A.R.S. Center Agricultural Project this fungus is responsible for the lost of over 50% of the harvest in our plantain fields. We are fighting back with natural pesticides but with little success. The other available method of control is through the use of fungicides and/or fungi stats in conjunction with cultural control and other agronomic practices. These include optimum crop nutrition, control of root pests, adequate plant density, weed management, proper drainage and reduction of fungal inoculums (de-trashing and removal of infected leaves). I never knew that “gardening” could be so much hard work! I think we could use some professional help with this project for sure but we are very thankful that many of our other crops such as corn, squash, beans and exotic peppers are doing great! The reality is, that for me, getting out in the field is therapeutic. I love the work and the time of solitude, which seems to recharge my batteries. Altogether we have about 2 acres planted with various fruits and vegetables. It is so exciting to see the seeds grow and bring forth fruit! Our prayers are that God will make us fruitful both naturally and spiritually!
One day at a time,
Roderick Davis
P.S. if you know of anyone with an old tractor that they are not using drop us a line! 
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