A Review on Integrated Disease Management Strategies in Vegetable Crops

Abstract

Vegetable crops are highly vulnerable to a wide range of diseases caused by fungi, bacteria, viruses, and nematodes, leading to substantial yield losses and reduced quality. This review aims to explore the integrated disease management strategies in vegetable crops. Traditional reliance on chemical pesticides has raised concerns about resistance development, environmental degradation, and human health risks. Integrated Disease Management (IDM) provides a holistic framework that combines cultural, biological, chemical, host resistance, and innovative technologies for sustainable disease control. This review synthesises current knowledge on IDM practices in as biocontrol agents and nanotechnology, and the integration of resistant cultivars with precision farming. Challenges and opportunities in adopting IDM are also highlighted, with a focus on climate change impacts and future research directions. Future research should emphasize climate-resilient resistant varieties, smart delivery systems for biocontrols, and digital tools for disease forecasting to ensure global food and nutritional security.