Farmer Management Practices and Cabbage Fungal Pathogens in Santa, Cameroon: Assessment of Local Cultivation Habits and Disease Characterization

Cabbage plays a crucial role in the livelihoods of small-scale farmers in Cameroon, contributing to both food security and household income. Nonetheless, its cultivation in the Santa area faces major setbacks due to fungal diseases that lead to substantial reductions in yield. To try to address these burdens, a comprehensive study was conducted involving a survey of 78 farmers to assess their socio-demographic characteristics and agricultural management practices. Concurrently, 160 symptomatic cabbage samples were collected from 10 different farms for diagnosis. Fungal pathogens were isolated from these samples and identified through morphological analysis, pathogenicity tests, and molecular sequencing of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region. The survey indicated widespread use of chemical fungicides such as Balear and Pencozeb, yet highlighted a notable absence of proper protective gear among growers. A total of 96 fungal isolates were obtained, with 11 showing strong pathogenicity. Molecular results identified Fusarium species, primarily Fusarium oxysporum as the most common causal agents. Other harmful fungi detected included Curvularia coatesiae , Colletotrichum kahawae, and Epicoccum nigrum . Disease incidence was found to be especially severe during the dry season. These results underscore the necessity for integrated disease control approaches, enhanced training for farmers on safe pesticide application, and ongoing monitoring of pathogens to support sustainable cabbage production in the region.