A new control scheme for yellowing disease of betel nut

Yellow leaf disease severely affects Areca catechu, leading to yield loss, poor fruit quality, and plant death, thus threatening industry sustainability. Its complex etiology phytoplasmas, viruses, nutrient deficiencies, and improper irrigation makes management challenging. This study proposes an integrated strategy combining the plant protection formulation GZM with liquid organic fertilizer YYM. Field application significantly reduced disease symptoms, suppressed pathogen levels, and restored leaf greenness. Physiological analyses showed increased chlorophyll content and phenylalanine ammonia-lyase activity. Transcriptomic data revealed upregulation of genes related to photosynthesis and plant pathogen interactions. Additionally, the treatment enhanced flavonoid biosynthesis, adjusted immune related hormone levels, and altered the phyllosphere microbiota by reducing pathogenic and insect-associated symbionts. These results demonstrate the potential of the combined GZM and YYM treatment as a sustainable and effective solution for YLD management in areca palm cultivation.