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Management Of Sheath Blight In Paddy

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May 16, 2023

A fungus named Rhizoctonia solani causes the sheath blight of paddy. It is a soilborne disease that can cause stunted growth and yield loss.

Symptoms of Sheath Blight

The symptoms appear as irregularly shaped or oval spots in greenish-grey colour. They are seen along the leaf sheath. They will gradually turn greyish-white with black-brown borders. The spots will also be enlarged as the disease progresses. Upper lesions can quickly merge, covering the entire tiller from water line to flag leaf. Large lesions on the leaf sheath can spread to healthy leaves as well.

Preventive Measures

Controlled use of nitrogenous fertilizers
Make adequate spacing between the plants
Prevent contamination through water from affected field to healthy field
Treat the seeds before sowing or dip the seedling in an antifungal solution.

Some effective chemicals to control Sheath Blight in Paddy

Folicur Fungicide is curative and can help enhance plant growth. It contains Tebuconazole 25.9% EC which has a prophylactic action to eradicate the fungus. It can inhibit the growth of fungal cell walls as well as their reproduction. Use 1 to 1.5 ml of the product in one litre of water.
Custodia is a broad-spectrum fungicide comprising Azoxystrobin 11% + Tebuconazole 18.3% SC. It has dual modes of action for a better effect. While it can affect the fungus negatively, it is completely safe for the plants and in fact, promotes its growth. Use 300 ml per acre or 1 – 1.5 ml per litre of water for best results.
Bavistin Fungicide contains Carbendazim 50% WP that acts systemically to cure or prevent sheath blight disease. It acts against a wide range of pathogens and is suitable for different types of plants as well. It is easily absorbed and can act faster. Apply 100-200 gm per acre or 1 gm per litre of water.
Tata Ayaan is another fungicide effective for the prevention and cure of sheath blight of paddy. It consists of Kresoxim-methyl 40% + Hexaconazole 8% WG. It can affect the fungus while protecting the plant and promoting its growth. Mix 1 gm per litre of water and apply it to the plants.

Conclusion

Irrigation water is a common agent for spreading this disease so, you must be highly careful while watering the plants. Make sure that the water from infected areas does not reach the healthy field. Pre-treatment of soil and seeds is one of the most effective preventive measures.

The Fight Against Paddy Hispa: Best Practices For Management – Read More

Management Of False Smut In Paddy

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May 16, 2023

False smut of paddy is caused by Ustilaginoidea virens, a fungus that causes widespread harm in the paddy field. It is mainly seen in humid areas and places where rainfall is high. In windy areas, the chances of the spread of the disease are higher.

Symptoms of False Smut in Paddy

The infection on the spikelets will be visible as fungal spore balls which appear smaller in size and orange in colour. It turns its colour to greenish-black as the infection grows. The disease cycle includes a primary infection and a secondary infection as well.

False Smut in Paddy Preventive Measures

Using certified seeds is a primary requirement to prevent this false smut disease.
Resistant varieties are a better choice.
Seed treatment must be done for 10 minutes at 52°C.
After harvesting, completely remove all kinds of debris and seeds from the field.

Some effective chemicals to control False Smut in Paddy

Amistar Top is a quickly absorbable fungicide made of Azoxystrobin 18.2% and Difenoconazole 11.4% SC. The product can be transported easily inside the plant and provides long-term effects to prevent or cure the disease. The recommended dosage is 200 ml per acre or 1 ml per litre of water.
Bcontrol is a fungicide made from Streptomyces hydroscopicus and shows natural antibiotic effects. It consists of Validamycin 3% L. It controls the fungi merely by coming in contact and acting systemically. It controls the disease by preventing fungal growth. The dosage required is 500 ml for an acre or 2.5 ml per litre of water.
Roko Fungicide contains Thiophanate methyl 70% WP which contains an S atom that has antifungal properties and can also boost plant growth. It can dissolve easily and is convenient for quick usage. Use 100 – 200 gm per acre or 0.5 gm per litre of water.
Custodia Fungicide contains Azoxystrobin 11% + Tebuconazole 18.3% SC that has medicinal properties. It can be used for prevention and curing the disease on paddy. The fungicide is effective in different stages of fungal growth. The required amount to use is 300 ml per acre or 1 – 1.5 ml per litre of water.

Conclusion

Early usage of the fungicide is recommended to manage false smut disease of paddy. The pathogen can easily affect the plant at different stages, especially during the flowering stage. Also, make sure to use lesser or adequate amount of nitrogenous fertilisers which can promote the growth of fungus.

CLICK HERE : 11 Paddy Diseases: Understanding The Causes, Symptoms, And Treatment Options.

Management Of Grassy Stunt Virus In Paddy

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May 16, 2023

Grassy stunt virus disease of paddy is commonly seen in fields where rice is grown continuously throughout the year. The disease is easily spread through vectors from one plant to the next.

Symptoms of Grassy Stunt Virus

The affected plants show rosette shape and grassy appearance. The plants grow straight as well. The leaves will turn yellow or yellow-green, which will gradually be small and thin. Even after infection, the plants grow fully but they will not produce panicles.

Preventive Measures

The primary measure to prevent grassy stunt viral infection is to plant the crops at an ideal distance from each other, at least 30 cm.
Any plants that are infested with brown plant hoppers must be eliminated as they act as a vector for this virus.
BPH-resistant plants must be chosen for crops.
Remove and bury the affected crop carefully to prevent the spreading of the virus.

Some effective chemicals to control Grassy Stunt Virus in Paddy

Note: As the virus is spread by brown plant hopper, spraying the below insecticides will control the spread of the virus in the field.

Lancer Gold Insecticide is a mix of two insecticides – Acephate 50% + Imidacloprid 1.8% SP. These are easily dissolvable and easier for the plants to absorb as well. They can eliminate sucking and chewing insects as they ingest the insecticide-absorbed plant parts. The recommended dosage is 400 grams per acre or 2 gm per litre of water.
Predator Insecticide is highly effective in removing the vectors by affecting their nervous system, leading to their death. On the applied areas, it creates a fumigant effect. The main content of this insecticide is Chloropyriphos 50% EC. The dosage required for the best results is 300 – 320 ml per acre or 1.5 ml per litre of water.
Katyayani BPH Super Insecticide contains Pymetrozine 50% WG. It works on the entire plant and helps control BPH in paddy. It works on the insect’s nervous system to render it immobile and eventually leading to its death. The dosage needed is 120 gm per acre or 0.6 gm per litre of water.
Odis Insecticide contains Buprofezin 20% + Acephate 50% WP. It is a contact insecticide working against BPH, available in a pre-mixed form. It affects nerve communication and also prevents them from shedding their skin. Just add 400 gm per acre or 2 gm per litre of water.

Conclusion

Apart from using resistant varieties, you must also ensure thorough ploughing of the field and removal of stubbles right after the previous harvest. This will help remove any kind of host or vector for the virus.

CLICK HERE : Paddy Gall Midge-An Integrated Pest Management Guide

Scale Up Your Sugarcane Yields: Best Management Practices For Scale Infestation

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May 15, 2023

Scale Up Your Sugarcane Yields: Best Management Practices For Scale Infestation

Sugarcane scale insect is a notorious pest that attacks sugarcane plants, causing significant economic losses to farmers and sugarcane industry. These small insects feed on the sap of sugarcane plants and their infestations can weaken and stunt the growth of plants, reducing yields and affecting the quality of final product. Estimates suggest that sugarcane scale insect can cause 32.6% reduction in cane yield if not managed properly. This article will explore the symptoms of scale insects and various control measures to manage them.

Type of Infestation

Sugarcane scale insect is a sap sucking pest which feeds on sap of sugarcane plants. The pest is known to infest leaves, nodes and internodes of sugarcane plants and cause significant damage if left uncontrolled.

Scientific Name: Melanaspis glomerata

Most Affected States Due to Sugarcane Scale

Sugarcane scale insect is most commonly found in the states of Maharashtra, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, West Bengal and Uttar Pradesh.

Symptoms of Sugarcane Scale

The leaves of the infested canes show unhealthy pale green color and tip drying.
Severe infestation leads to yellowing of leaves.
Non opening of leaves occurs due to severe de-sapping.
An infested crop loses its vigour, experiences cane shriveling, stunted growth and significant reduction in internodal region.
Finally, the cane dries up and when such canes are slit open, they have a brownish-red appearance.
In severely affected canes, thick brown encrustations can be observed on both nodal and internodal regions.

Sugarcane Scale Control Measures

Effective management of sugarcane scale insect requires a combination of cultural, biological and chemical control measures.

Sugarcane Scale Cultural Measures

Grow resistant sugarcane varieties like CO 443, CO 453, CO 671, CO 691 and CO 692.
Choose setts for planting that are free from scale insects.
Keep the sugarcane fields free from weeds.
Avoid water stagnation in field for longer period.
Detrash the sugarcane crop on the 150th and 210th day of planting.
Avoid repeated ratoons to reduce the sugarcane scale infestation.

Biological Measures

Encourage predators like Chilocorus nigritus or Pharascymnus horni to control the population of sugarcane scale insects.
Also release parasitoids such as Anagyrus mayurensis, Cheiloneurus sp., and predatory mites like Sancassania nuda and Tyrophagus putrescentiae to feed on scale insects.
Greenpeace Neemol Bio Neem Oil Insecticide contains azadirachtin which when used at the rate of 1-2ml per liter of water with 15 days interval between each spray can effectively control sugarcane scale insects.
Anshul Bio Finish is a broad-spectrum biopesticide containing natural plant extracts which can be sprayed to sugarcane crops for controlling scale insects. The recommended dosage is 3-5ml per liter of water. Spray the mixture at a regular interval of 10-12 days for better results.

Sugarcane Scale Chemical Measures

Sugarcane scales can be controlled using commercial insecticides. Some of the most commonly used insecticides for controlling sugarcane scales includes,

Product Name	Technical Content	Dosage
Rogor Insecticide	Dimethoate 30% EC	1 ml/lit of water
Keefun Insecticide	Tolfenpyrad 15% EC	1.5 ml/lit of water
Acepro Insecticide	Acetamiprid 20% SP	0.5 gm/lit of water
Confidor Insecticide	Imidacloprid 17.8% SL	1ml/lit of water

Red Rot Disease: Strategies For Controlling Red Rot Of Sugarcane – See More

Early Blight Disease In Tomatoes: How To Spot And Stop It In Its Tracks?

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May 12, 2023

Early Blight Disease In Tomatoes: How To Spot And Stop It In Its Tracks?

Early blight is a common fungal disease that affects tomato plants. Since it affects the growth of plants early in the season, it is called ‘early blight’. It is caused by the fungus Alternaria solani and can be a significant problem in warm, humid environments. The fungus can also infect the potato crop. Alternaria solani can invade and infect any part of the host plant, such as leaves, stems and even fruits. The plant with infections yields poor quality fruits. Learn how to recognize the symptoms of early blight, what causes it, and most importantly, how to prevent and manage it in your fields in this article.

Early Blight in Tomato Symptoms

Circular, dark brown to black spots with dark concentric rings, typically 1 – 1.5 cm in diameter, can be observed on affected leaves.
The appearance of these spots is often compared to a “Bull’s eye”.
As the infection progresses, the spots may merge, causing the affected leaves to turn yellow and defoliate.
The disease initially affects older leaves and can later spread to the stems and fruits.
In severe cases, stem lesions may appear, causing the plant to wilt and die.
Just like on leaves, the disease may cause circular lesions with concentric rings on the fruits.
Later, these spots may enlarge and become dark and sunken.
Early blight symptom in tomato plant

How is it caused?

The fungus can overwinter on plant debris and soil and can also be introduced to a field through contaminated seeds or transplants.
It thrives in wet and humid conditions, so rainy weather or overhead irrigation can promote disease development.
Tomato plants that are deficient in nutrients can be more susceptible to early blight.

Preventive Measures

Adopt crop rotation with non-Solanaceae family crops such as legumes (e.g. beans, peas), brassicas (e.g. cauliflower, cabbage), or grains (e.g. wheat, barley) to reduce the buildup of fungal spores in the soil.
Avoid transplanting seedlings that show symptoms of early blight into the main field.
Plant tomatoes with adequate spacing to improve air circulation and reduce humidity around the plants.
Grow disease tolerant varieties like Indus 1030 tomato, Bangalore red tomato.
Ensure balanced nutrition for the crop to improve its ability to withstand the disease.
Remove and destroy the plant debris properly after harvest to prevent the spread of the disease.
Avoid doing any intercultural activities during moist days.
Keep the field weed-free as weeds can act as alternate hosts for the pathogen.
Avoid overhead irrigation which can promote fungal growth.

Management of Early blight disease in Tomato

Product name	Technical content	Dosage
Biological Management
Geolife Recover Nutri Fungicide	Natural extracts & antioxidants	1 gm/lit of water
Multiplex Bio Jodi Fungicide	Pseudomonas fluorescence & Bacillus subtilis	Spray: 5 – 10 gm/lit of water Soil Application: 5 kg of product + 100 kg of FYM per acre
Chemical Management
Acrobat Fungicide	Dimethomorph 50% WP	2 gm/lit of water
Cuman L Fungicide	Ziram 27% SC	2 ml/lit of water
Merivon Fungicide	Fluxapyroxad 250 G/L + Pyraclostrobin 250 G/L SC	0.5 ml/lit of water
Custodia Fungicide	Azoxystrobin 11% + Tebuconazole 18.3% SC	1 ml/lit of water
Conika Fungicide	Kasugamycin 5% + Copper Oxychloride 45% WP	1.5 gm/lit of water
Kocide Fungicide	Copper Hydroxide 53.8% DF	2 gm/lit of water
Dhanuka M45 Fungicide	Mancozeb 75% WP	3 gm/lit of water

Note: Please follow the product’s label to know the right time of application.

Explore our comprehensive guide on tomato farming for more insights. CLICK HERE

Management Of Bacterial Leaf Blight In Rice/Paddy

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May 11, 2023

The Bacterial leaf blight disease of paddy is one of the major diseases seen in rice crops. The causative organism here is the Xanthomonas oryzae. It is a serious disease for the crops as it can cause major losses in yield and could also lead to an outbreak in the area. Effective control measures are necessary to keep this pathogen in check.

Symptoms of Bacterial Leaf Blight

The most common symptom of bacterial leaf blight of paddy is the appearance of yellow stripes along the leaf blade.
The seedling may wilt.
Bacterial oozes on the leaves are common.
The yellow lesions may turn white as the disease progresses.

Preventive Measures

Keep the field clean and free of weeds.
Avoid flow of irrigation water from affected field.
Let the field dry completely before the ploughing process.

Some effective chemicals to control Bacterial Leaf Blight in Paddy

V-Cure Fungicide Plus Bactericide is an effective solution against bacterial leaf blight of paddy. It is an organic cationic surface product having potassium and sodium salts. It is applied in the soil and can work against a variety of pathogens. The recommended dosage is 1.5 to 2 gm of product in one litre of water.
Cristocycline is a chemical bactericide made of Streptomycin sulphate 90% and Tetracycline hydrochloride 10% SP in a ratio of 90:10 respectively. It is most effective after the infestation. You can mix 6 gm of the product in 50 litres of water and spray the mixture on the foliage of the affected plants.
Geomycin is a natural and organic antibiotic, effective against bacterial diseases. It is made of plant extracts which help curb the disease and promote the growth of the plants. It can also improve the natural immunity of the crops. Mix 0.5 to 1 gm in one litre of water and spray the mix.
Conika is a powerful combination that can work against both fungi and bacteria. It works faster and can give long-term effects in preventing diseases. The chemical content is Kasugamycin 5% and Copper oxychloride 45% WP. It works by contact as well as systemic action by rapid absorption by plants and prevents the growth of pathogens inside the plant. The recommended dosage is mixing 1.5-2 gm in 1 litre of water or 300 gm for an acre.

Conclusion

Regular application of the chemical measures will be required. It must also be used at the specified intervals for best results.

From Infestation To Eradication: The Ultimate Sugarcane White Grub Management Plan

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May 11, 2023

From Infestation To Eradication: The Ultimate Sugarcane White Grub Management Plan

Sugarcane white grub is a serious agricultural pest that poses a significant threat to the productivity and sustainability of sugarcane crops worldwide. This grub feeds on the roots of sugarcane plants, causing significant damage that can result in reduced yields and even complete crop failure. It can cause 100% reduction in cane yield and 5-6% in sugar recovery if not properly managed. This article will explore the symptoms of sugarcane white grub infestation and various control measures that can be adopted to minimize its damage.

They are dirty white coloured ‘C’ shaped larvae with brown head. It can be found all year around, but their activity is typically only visible during the rainy season. Light soils rich in organic matter and high temperature create a favorable condition for sugarcane white grubs.

Type of Infestation

White grubs cause extensive damage to roots, leading to lodging of sugarcane.

Scientific Name: Holotrichia consanguinea, Holotrichia serrata

Most Affected States Due to Sugarcane White Grub

Sugarcane white grubs are found in many parts of India. H. consanguinea is pre-dominant in Rajasthan, Gujarat, Haryana, Punjab, Bihar and Uttar Pradesh whereas, H. serrata is most destructive in states like Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu.

Symptoms of Sugarcane White Grub

Initially yellowing and wilting of leaves can be seen.
Affected canes come off easily when pulled.
Grub feed on the roots and cause extensive damage to the roots and base of the shoots.
Drying of the entire crown occurs due to their feeding activity.
In case of severe infestation, the affected canes may lodge in the field.
Grubs may also be found tunneling into the cane stalks.

Sugarcane White Grub Control Measures

A comprehensive strategy, encompassing cultural, physical, mechanical, biological and chemical methods can be implemented to effectively manage sugarcane white grubs.

Cultural Measures

Grow resistant sugarcane cultivars like Co 6304, C0 1158 and Co 5510.
Deep summer ploughing of fields exposes pupae of white grubs, which are located in the soil, to birds and high temperatures.
Avoid ratoon crops in infested sugarcane.
Practice crop rotation with non-host crops like sunflower.
Grow trap crops like groundnut, castor and sun hemp in sugarcane fields to trap white grubs.
Provide adequate irrigation and balanced amount of fertilizers.

Physical Measures

Set up Light Trap to capture adult white grubs and kill them in kerosene oil water.

Mechanical Measures

Handpicking and destroying grubs and adult beetles help in reducing sugarcane white grub population.
Tapas White Grub Lure can be used to attract and trap white grubs. Install Tapas Bucket Trap with White Grub lure at a rate of 4 to 5 per acre for effective trapping.

Sugarcane White Grub Biological Measures

Anand Dr. Bacto’s Brave is an eco-friendly bio insecticide containing Beauveria bassiana which acts on the cuticle of white grubs and kills them by producing toxins. The recommended dosage is 2.5ml per liter of water.
Bio Metaz Biopesticide contains an entomo-pathogenic fungus Metarhizium anisopliae, which comes in contact with the body of insect host and kills them. In order to get better results, mix 10ml of bio metaz biopesticide with 1 liter of water and spray them during evening hours.
Biofix Biofighter is a novel bio control agent, containing naturally occurring soil microorganisms. To effectively control white grubs, drench 5g of biofix biofighter in 1 liter of water per acre.
Anshul EPN Army Nematicide comprises of Heterorhabditis indica, an entomopathogenic pathogen which eradicates white grubs by making contact with them. For an acre, apply 1-2 kg of army nematicide for better results.

Sugarcane White Grub Chemical Measures

In case of severe infestations, chemical measures can be taken using commercial insecticides. The following are some of the commercial chemicals that are commonly used to control white grubs in sugarcane,

Product Name	Technical Content	Dosage
Soil Application
Lesenta Insecticide	Imidacloprid 40% + Fipronil 40% WG	100 gm/acre
Furadan 3G Insecticide	Carbofuran 3% CG	13 kg/acre
Foliar Spray
Nanobee Agrokill Insecticide	Nano Colloidal Micelles 100% (Fatty Acid based Plant Extracts)	3 ml/lit water
Bacf End Task Insecticide	Fipronil 40% + Imidacloprid 40% WG	0.5 gm/lit of water

EXPLORE Enhancing Sugarcane Yield And Sustainability Through Integrated Nutrient Management (INM)

Battle Against Sugarcane Mealybug: Comprehensive Management Strategies For Farmers

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May 11, 2023

Battle Against Sugarcane Mealybug: Comprehensive Management Strategies for Farmers

The sugarcane mealybug, Saccharicoccus sacchari is a small insect that poses a significant threat to sugarcane crops worldwide. They are pinkish oval shaped insects usually found beneath the leaf sheath, which feeds on the sap of the sugarcane plant, leading to stunted growth and reduced yields. Sugarcane mealybug infestations have become a growing concern for farmers in many parts of the world and the economic losses can be significant. In this article, we will discuss the symptoms of sugarcane mealybugs and various control measures that can be adopted to manage them.

Type of Infestation

Sugarcane mealybugs are a type of sap feeder, which feeds on the sap of the sugarcane plants.

Scientific Name: Saccharicoccus sacchari

Most Affected States Due to Sugarcane Mealybug

Sugarcane mealybugs are widely distributed across India and they are known to cause damage to sugarcane crops in several states, including Maharashtra, Karnataka and Uttar Pradesh.

Symptoms of Sugarcane Mealybug

The symptoms of sugarcane mealybugs infestation can be easily identified by,

The presence of pinkish oval shaped insects under the leaf sheath at the nodes, with whitish mealy coating.
They suck the sap from the plant leading to yellowing of leaves.
Sugarcane mealybugs secrete a honeydew substance, which attracts other pests and can lead to the growth of sooty mould on the canes.
They also attack roots and the affected main cane becomes stunted.

Sugarcane Mealybug Control Measures

A combination of different control measures is often important to effectively manage mealybugs infestation in sugarcane crops. The following are some of the commonly used IPM practices for controlling sugarcane mealybugs,

Cultural Measures

Grow resistant sugarcane varieties like CO 439, CO 443, CO 720, CO 730 and CO 7704.
Detrash the sugarcane crop on 150 and 210 days after planting
Drain excess water from the sugarcane field.
Avoid using excessive dozes of nitrogen-based fertilizers.

Biological Measures

Encourage bio-control agents to keep the mealybug populations in check.
Amruth Alestra Liquid (Bio Insecticide) contains strains of naturally occurring entomopathogenic fungus Verticillium lecanii which comes in contact with the cuticle of the mealybugs and colonizes them. The recommended dosage is 2ml per liter of water.
Greenpeace Neemol Bio Neem Oil Insecticide contains neem-based products azadirachtin which when used at the rate of 1-2ml per liter of water with 15days interval between each spray can effectively control mealybugs in sugarcane fields.
Kaybee Mealy Raze Bio Pesticide contains natural plant extracts which when sprayed affects the internal nervous system of mealybugs, leading to paralysis and death. The recommended dosage is 1-2ml per liter of water.

Sugarcane Mealybug Chemical Measures

Some of the commercial chemicals that can be used to control sugarcane mealybugs are mentioned below,

Product Name	Technical Content	Dosage
Tafgor Insecticide	Dimethoate 30% EC	1.5 ml/lit of water
Confidor Insecticide	Imidacloprid 17.8% SC	0.75 ml/lit of water
Sivanto Prime Insecticide	Flupyradifurone 17.09% SL	2 ml/lit of water
Tafaban Insecticide	Chlorophyriphos 20 %EC	2.5 ml/lit of water
Anshul Ikon Insecticide	Acetamiprid 20% S.P	0.5 gm/lit of water

EXPLORE Disease Management in Sugarcane Crop using UAL Organic Based Products.

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