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Phomopsis fruit rot (Phomopsis obscurans) is caused by the same fungus that causes leaf blight. It can affect ripening or ripe fruit. Disease begins as light pink spots and later develops dark centers with black fungal fruiting structures. Pathogen overwinters on old foliage and fallen fruit. Infection may also be introduced on infected plugs or tips. 

Phomopsis fruit rot.

(Photo: Natalia Peres, University of Florida)

Management:

• Use proper sanitation.
• Remove diseased fruit.
• Mulch to keep fruit clean and dry. 
• Increase air circulation to encourage drying of tissue.
• Use fungicides to prevent spread from leaf symptoms.

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