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Easy ways to get rid of TOSPO virus (Tomato Spotted Wilt Virus)

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One of the most common diseases of tomato crops in our country, spotted wilt, is caused by Tospovirus. It can affect the various parts of the plant and each part could show a different symptom as well. They can affect the growth of the plant, damage the produce or could be fatal as well.

Tomato Spotted Wilt Virus Symptoms

Tomato spotted wilt virus or Tospovirus infections on tomato leaves will cause them to look pale yellow or brownish with fungal spots and smaller in size. The fruits formed will be discoloured with yellow rings and differently shaped as well. All of these could lead to a huge loss for the farmers as it can affect the market price of the produce.

Preventive Measures and Chemical Control

  • Using the Perfekt Herbal Crop Health Enhancer is an excellent way to prevent infection of Tospovirus in tomato plants. This is a pro-curative early disease control product made from various medicinal plant extracts. It prevents infections caused by viruses, bacteria, fungi, etc and can also resist infestation by insects and pests. This integrated nutrition for plants is completely safe for the environment. Mix 1 ml of this liquid in one litre of water and spray it on the plants.
  • Vanproz V-Bind Viricide is a mix of natural plant extracts that can be curative and preventive against various viral infections in plants. It is made of just plant extracts and essential oils. The active ingredients in this formula enter the affected plants and encapsulate the microbes and eliminate them. It can also undo the damage caused by the viruses inside the plant. Dilute 2-3 ml of the mix in one litre of water.
  • Multiplex Magnum Mn contains the necessary form of manganese for the pants. It contains 12% manganese in its chelated forms that are readily available for plants. This nutrient helps translocate other nutrient ions. This is available in powdered form. Mix 0.5 g in one litre of water and spray it all on the leaves, both on the upper and lower surfaces.
  • Multiplex Kranti Micronutrient Fertilizer is a complete plant food filled with primary, secondary and micronutrients to boost its immunity and promote growth. It makes the plants resistant to viral infections and combat environmental stress.

Conclusion

You need to use these products one after the other week for a few weeks to see remarkable differences. We hope that this information will be helpful for you. To get all kinds of information related crops visit our website  https://kisanvedika.bighaat.com/ or give a missed call on our toll free number 1800 3000 2434.

Note: The information contained herein is for informational purposes only. Nothing herein shall be construed to be financial or legal advice. Pesticides are a considerable risk of loss in crops and viewers are advised to do their own research before making any decisions.

 

Management of Aphids in Tomato

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Aphids are one of the most common problems for tomato plants. They grow fast and form colonies on tender leaves. They also pose a threat by having the ability to transmit viruses. The main difficulty here is their resistance to many insecticides.

Symptoms

The adult aphids as well as the nymphs suck the sap of younger plants and their succulent parts. The affected plants show twisted or curled leaves and swollen branches. When left untreated, they may even lead to uncontrolled infestation causing stunted growth of the plant. The affected leaves may turn yellow or brown. They secrete sugary substance called ‘honeydew‘ which attracts ants and promotes sooty mould growth. 

Preventive Measures

  • Planting companion crops and trap crops are one of the most effective ways to control these aphids.
  • Release natural predators such as ladybugs and green lacewings to control the aphid population. 
  • Installing sticky traps in the field and maintaining the field weed-free are other popular methods to prevent aphid infestation.

Chemical Control

  • Shamrock Overseas Limited Prime Gold Insecticide: It is a systemic insecticide containing Acetamiprid 20% SP and is effective against a wide spectrum of insects. It comes as a soluble powder which is diluted in water and sprayed on the crops. The dilution is 20-40 gm per acre.
  • Marshal Insecticide: It is a contact insecticide which can also be a stomach poison for aphids. The active ingredient Carbosulfan 25% EC fights off chewing and sucking pests from the crops and promotes healthy growth of the plants. The recommended dosage for this liquid insecticide is 320-400 ml per acre. 
  • Tatafen Insecticide: The 10% EC of Fenvalerate in this insecticide is effective against sucking pests via contact synthetic pyrethroid action. It works on a wide range of pests and is highly effective. The recommended dosage for this is 2.5 ml/liter or 500 ml per acre.

Conclusion

The damage caused by aphids on tomato plants is multilevel from affecting the leaves thus preventing proper photosynthesis to infesting fruits making them unfit for markets. Proper management of these pests with these insecticides along with proper prevention measures are essential. Only the combined efforts can be fruitful as they could be resistant to many insecticides.

Note: The information contained herein is for informational purposes only. Nothing herein shall be construed to be financial or legal advice. Pesticides are a considerable risk of loss in crops and viewers are advised to do their own research before making any decisions.

 

Management of Semi loopers in Crucifers

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The semi-loopers in cruciferous plants are identified as plump greenish larvae that damage the winter crops, mostly in northwest India. The young pests are more damaging to the crops. Here are some ways to control them.

Symptoms of Semi loopers in Crucifers

Semiloopers in cruciferous plants, scrap and feed on the tender leaves. Such infested feeding sites are identifiable by the sticky wet faecal matter of the pests.

Preventive Measures of Semi loopers in Crucifers

  • Using light traps can attract and kill adult worms easily.
  • Hand-picking and getting rid of caterpillars is another method of elimination.
  • Spraying endosulfan or malathion could also be done.
  • You may also choose Trichogramma wasps to remove these worms as they can remove the eggs.
  • Spraying natural insecticides such as Bacillus thuringiensis can eliminate the young caterpillars.
  • The final way is to remove the plant debris after each harvest.

Chemical Control of Semi loopers in Crucifers

  • Ekalux Insecticide is an insecticide effective against a wide range of pests. It contains Quinalphos 25 % EC and is recommended for sucking pests that affect various crops. The dilution ratio of this product is 2 ml per litre of water or 400 ml per acre.
  • Alika Insecticide is another broad-spectrum insecticide made of 141 g/L Thiamethoxam and 106 g/L Lambda-cyhalothrin. Use it at a dilution of 0.5 ml per litre or 80 ml per acre for green and luscious crucifer crops.
  • Cover Insecticide is part of the anthranilic diamide group that acts on the ryanodine receptors of the insects and works both as a contact and ingestion method. The product affects the muscle contraction of the insects to kill them eventually. It contains Chlorantraniliprole 18.5% W/W SC that protects for a longer time by building up on the leaf to prevent further infestation. Using this at a dilution of 60 ml per care will help you grow a higher yield.
  • Decis 2.8 Ec is a synthetic pyrenoid insecticide and one of the most effective products against pests. It has a composition of Deltamethrin 2.8 EC (2.8% w/w) with a photostable and non-systemic action. It affects the nerve transmission of the pests and gets rid of them. You can dilute it at a ratio of 1.5 to 2 ml per litre of water.

Conclusion

You have a wider range of products to choose from to manage the semi-loopers. When coupled with effective preventive measures, you can be on top of them. We hope that this information will be helpful to you. To get all kinds of information related to crops visit our website  https://kisanvedika.bighaat.com/ or give a missed call on our toll-free number 1800 3000 2434.

CLICK HERE : Management of Diamondback Moth in Crucifers.

Note: The information contained herein is for informational purposes only. Nothing 
herein shall be construed to be financial or legal advice. Pesticides are a considerable risk of loss in crops and viewers are advised to do their own research before making any decisions.

Management of Leaf Eating Caterpillars in Crucifers

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The leaf eating caterpillars of cruciferous plants are identified as light green velvety worms. They have a yellowish line down their back as well. These leaf-eating caterpillars can grow up to 3 cm in length. They can grow faster under sunny days and mostly feed on the lower side of the leaves. They often feed on the head leaving the produce completely unfit for marketing thus rendering loss to the farmers.

Symptoms of Leaf Eating Caterpillars in Crucifers

Small and large irregular holes are common symptoms. Later they can defoliate the entire plant and leave just the midribs of the leaves leaving just the skeleton of the plant. Later on, it may feed on flowers and other parts to make the plant stunted.

Preventive Measures of Leaf Eating Caterpillars in Crucifers

  • Plough the ground thoroughly and expose the eggs and larvae to sunshine.
  • Try to avoid water logging in the ground and prevent water stress on the plants.
  • Choose weed-free crops
  • Grow castor on the borders to trap the pests.
  • Basil is another natural repellant for this kind of pest.
  • Installing pheromone traps can attract male pests.

Chemical control of Leaf Eating Caterpillars in Crucifers

  • Jashn Super Insecticide: This ready-to-use product containing Cypermethrin 4% E.C and Profenofos 40% is an excellent larvicide and ovicide. It can successfully eliminate the tougher bollworms. The ratio for dilution is 2 ml per litre of water.
  • Proclaim Insecticide: This multipurpose insecticide is from the Avermectin group and contains Emamectin Benzoate 5% SGz. It is available in granular form and shows translaminar action within 2 hours of application. The dilution ratio is 0.5 to 0.8gm/litre of water.
  • Tafaban Insecticide: is a quick-acting animal ectoparasiticide that is effectively used against termites and other pests. It contains Fenvalerate 10 % EC that acts as a contact synthetic pyrethroid insecticide. You may use it after a dilution of 2.5 ml/litre or 500 ml/acre.
  • Rilon Insecticide contains Emamectin Benzoate 5% SG which is produced by Streptomyces avermitilis, a bacteria. It is highly potent with a translaminar action. The molecules that accumulate inside the leaves kill the pests that feed on them through muscle contraction. This is so powerful that you need just 0.5 gm in one litre of water.

Conclusion

There are several options including these natural-based products to control these caterpillars. You can have the control measures to be more effective when both the chemical and preventing measures are taken together. We hope that this information will be helpful for you. To get all kinds of information related to crops visit our website  https://kisanvedika.bighaat.com/ or give a missed call on our toll free number 1800 3000 2434.

Note: The information contained herein is for informational purposes only. Nothing herein shall be construed to be financial or legal advice. Pesticides are a considerable risk of loss in crops and viewers are advised to do their own research before making any decisions.

Management of Cut worms in Chilli

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Cutworms are greasy larvae that are black in colour with pale dorsal stripes making them distinctive. They are usually found in the soil but some species feed on the seedlings and newly transplanted plants that are in the soil level.

Cutworms in ChilliSymptoms

Cutworms in chilli plants leave the tender leaves with irregular holes, cut in them, or cause the stems to be cut at the ground level. The worms come out at night to feed and go back under the soil during day time. While doing so, they could drag the stem underground causing them to wilt.

Cutworms in Chilli Preventive Measures

The best preventive course is to plough the soil at least 3-5 weeks prior to planting to force the worms out of the soil. It will help its predators to catch hold of them as well. You must make sure to clear the weeds regularly and plant sunflower plants in between to attract the worms. Also, make sure to do tilling and remove all plant residue to leave the worms starving for a few weeks.

Chemical Control

  • EM 1 Insecticide is a multipurpose insecticide in a soluble granule form. It contains Emamectin Benzoate 5% SG that has translaminar action to act on the worms located on the lower side of the leaves. It works within 2 hours of application and can withstand rain for up to 4 hours. Use it at a dosage of 80 gm per acre.
  • Coragen Insecticide is a broad-spectrum insecticide more active as a larvicide. The chemical component here is Chlorantraniliprole 18.5 % which offers long-term protection as well. Dilute this concentrated liquid at 0.4 ml/litre or 60 ml/acre.
  • Alika Insecticide is a mix of Lambda Cyhalothrin (9.5%) ZC and Thiamethoxam (12.6%) that work on sucking pests. It works by both contact and systemic methods. The dosage is 0.5 ml per litre of water or 80 ml per acre.
  • All Bata Royal Larvend is a biodegradable green insecticide made of parasitic microorganisms and live Entomopathogenic nematodes. Use it as a foliar spray for 7-10 days initially and 1-2 times a month after diluting it at a ratio of 2 ml per litre of water.

Conclusion

Cutworms usually attack the roots and shoot systems at ground level but during summer they may come up the plants and destroy leaves and other parts as well. Timely use of pesticides can control them effectively. We hope that this information will be helpful for you. To get all kinds of information related to crops visit our website  https://kisanvedika.bighaat.com/ or give a missed call on our toll free number 1800 3000 2434.

Note: The information contained herein is for informational purposes only. Nothing herein shall be construed to be financial or legal advice. Pesticides are a considerable risk of loss in crops and viewers are advised to do their own research before making any decisions.

Management of Diamondback Moth in Crucifers

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Diamondback Moth (DBM) in crucifers was initially found in Europe but is now common in America, Asia, Australia, etc. The moth is greyish-brown in colour with a protruding antenna. It has light-coloured diamond shapes on its back and thus the name Diamondback moth. These moths are weak fliers and cannot fly more than 2 m from the ground. These moths attack all types of cruciferous plants affecting their quality and preventing their head formation.

Symptoms

The larvae of the moth feed on the foliage on its lower surface causing the upper surface to look translucent. The plants end up having several such translucent spots and holes as the worms eat the leaf parts.

The moth larvae eat only the minor leaves but the adults feed on any or all parts of the plant. An excessive number of larvae and their increase in the feed may lead to a complete elimination of the foliage which leaves only the veins of these leaves. Sometimes, their caterpillars enter the produce making it unfit for consumption thus nullifying its value.

Preventive Measures

  • The primary preventive measure is to choose quality seeds and plant them in protected conditions.
  • Make sure to sow the seeds in a weed-free land and ensure proper maintenance to keep the weeds away.
  • Practices such as crop rotation, trap cropping, and intercropping will break the growth cycle of the moth and thus can reduce their invasion or repel them effectively.

Chemical Control

  • Keefun insecticide is Tolfenpyrad 15% EC and is highly effective against various insects including the Diamondback moth. It prevents the insects from biting, sucking, and chewing on the plant parts. You can dilute the solution in water at 1.5 – 2 ml of solution in 1 litre of water.
  • Cigna insecticide is technically 5.4% EC Lufenuron, a growth inhibitor against insects. It can inhibit chitin synthesis in case the moth comes in contact with the foliage. It is completely safe to use on cruciferous vegetables. The dilution proportion is 1.5-2 ml/litre of water.
  • Intrepid insecticide contains 10% Chlorfenapyr SC and is effective on a wide range of insects and mites. This can effectively control the invasion of moths on the underside of the leaves. The dilution ratio is 1.5 ml/litre of water.

Conclusion

These chemical controls are highly effective against even the resistant varieties of Diamondback moths. We have shared the right information with you to protect cabbage crop from diamond back moth pest. We hope that this information will be helpful for you. To get all kinds of information related to such crops visit our website  https://kisanvedika.bighaat.com/ or give a missed call on our toll free number 1800 3000 2434.

Note: The information contained herein is for informational purposes only. Nothing herein shall be construed to be financial or legal advice. Pesticides are a considerable risk of loss in crops and viewers are advised to do their own research before making any decisions.

Field Preparations for Cotton Crop

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Field Preparation for Cotton
Field Preparation for Cotton


India is one of the world’s largest cotton-producing country. India grows over 1.7 million hectares. India exports to over 159 countries. India export over 5.5 million bales of cotton. The annual national total demand for cotton for the year 2022 – 2023 is 351 lakhs bales. Cotton is majorly cultivated in Gujarat, Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Orissa, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, and Tripura. Gujarat is the highest producer of cotton in India.

Difficulty Level:

Medium

Selection of Seeds:

There are over 150 varieties of cotton available in India, some of the popular ones being RASI 773, RASI 776, ANKUR 555, BAYER 7172, BAYER 7272, US 51, NUZIVEEDU 9013, NUZIVEEDU BALWAN, SRIRAM 6588, KAVERI BULLET, GOLDI 333, Buri 1007, A.K.H. 081 and D.H.Y. 286. Rasi 773 produces big bolls of cotton with optimum height for the plant. This variety also has a high tolerance toward sucking pests.

Pre-soaking of Seeds:

Native cotton seed varieties need to be soaked for two to three hours minimum and imported varieties such as US varieties four to six hours.

Cotton Seed Treatment:

Before the cotton seeds treatment, the seeds are advised to be soaked in a mixture of water, mud, and cow dung for a uniform stand of plants.

  • Chemical Seed Treatment for Cotton:

Delinting is a necessary cotton seed treatment. To delint, take 1 kg of fuzzy seeds in a plastic bucket, and add H2SO4 concentrate at 100 ml/kg of seeds. Maintain a constant stirring with a wooden spoon for 2 – 3 minutes for uniform coverage and better treatment. The seeds will appear in a coffee brown color in about 3 minutes, immediately wash the seeds with cold water about 4 – 5 times. After washing all the seeds there is need to soak in water to remove any debris or floaters. Then wash the seed in 0.5% calcium chloride solution for 10 – 15 minutes for complete removal of acid in the seeds. The seeds that sink to the bottom can be used for sowing.

Delinted seeds in 2 grams of carbonized or 3 grams of mancozeb dissolved in 1 litre of water to help against seed-prone diseases. The slurry treatment is to soak the seeds in Captan at 2 grams per kg of delinted seed with 5 ml of water per kg of seed.

  • Bacterial Seed Treatment for Cotton:

Seed treatment for cotton has a variety of options to choose from. Azotobacter at 34 to 247 kg N/ha will help with nitrogen-fixing and inoculating seeds with other necessary bacterial strains. Like azotobacter, azospirillum is also micro aerophylic nitogen fixer. Azospirillum can reduce the nitrogen requirement by 25 – 30 %.

Field Preparations for Cotton:

  • Soil Type Requirements for Cotton:

Sandy loam

  • Soil pH:

Slightly acidic pH 5.5

Land Preparations for Cotton:

The field is harrowed twice in opposite directions and then disc-ploughed this loosens the soil. After the harrow, plough the land with chisel the soil with hard pan formation of 0.5m intervals.

Land preparation for cotton is prepared usually with sandy clayey loam soil mixed with 10 tons of FYM. Mix the seeds with 3 packets of Azospirillum (600 g/ha) and 3 packets (600 g/ha) of Phosphobacteria or 6 packets of Azophos(1200 g/ha). This way it’s sapling will have plenty of accessible nitrogen.

Conclusion:

Cotton is a hardy crop that is grown throughout the country. Cotton is a major cash crop that has promised a healthy return for the year 2022 – 23. Cotton although it requires proper care, is not a high-maintenance crop, unlike other cash crops.

FAQs 

  1. Suggest some popular cotton varieties?
States  Varieties/Hybrids 
Karnataka  Amruth Cotton Grow (growth promoter for cotton), EZEE Cotton – herbal crop health enhancer, CCH 999 BG II hybrid cotton, Mahyco Dhandev + MRC 7373 BG-II Cotton 
Tamil Nadu  Amruth Cotton Grow (growth promoter for cotton), Multiplex BTC for Cotton, Mahyco Dhandev + MRC 7373 BG-II Cotton 
Andhra Pradesh  Amruth Cotton Grow (growth promoter), Mahyco Jungee Cotton, multiplex BTC Cotton micro nutrient, Navaneeth cotton (NCS929), EZEE Cotton- herbal crop health enhancer 
Telangana  US 7067 BG II (SWCH 4749 BG II) Cotton, CCH 999 BG II Hybrid Cotton, Mahyco Dhandev + MRC 7373 BG-II Cotton, Mahyco Jungee Cotton, Amruth Cotton Grow 
Maharashtra  Amruth Cotton Grow, US 7067 BG II (SWCH 4749 BG II) Cotton, Mahyco Dhandev + MRC 7373 BG-II Cotton, EZEE Cotton- herbal crop health enhancer, RCH 659 BG II Cotton 

 

  1. What is the ideal soil type for Cotton cultivation?

Sandy loam 

  1. How is the seed treatment for cotton is done?

Treat the acid delinted seeds with Carbendazim (Bavistin 50% WP) or thiram or Captan at 2g/kg of seeds. Sow the seeds after 24 hrs of treatment. An alternative method is to mix the delinted seeds with 10 ml of Azospirillium (SUN BIO AZOS) or  Phosphobacteria.(SUN BIO PHOSI) mixed with cold jaggery solution. Dry the treated seeds in shade before sowing and use it on the same day. 

(Note: Biofertilizer and fungicide are incompatible., therefore they should not be mixed together) 

  1. What is fertilizer recommendation for cotton? 

The general dose of fertilizer recommendation for rainfed cotton is 20:10:10 kg/acre and irrigated cotton is 40:20:20 kg/acre. The commercial quantity for field application is given in the table below: 

Nutrient  Fertilizer  Dosage for rainfed cotton (per acre)  Dosage for Irrigated cotton (per acre) 
Organic  FYM or compost 

or 

Vermicompost 

5 ton 

or  

1 ton 

5 ton 

or    

1 ton 

N  Urea or   35 kg  69 kg 
Ammonium Sulphate  78 kg  156 kg 
P  DAP  22 kg  43 kg 
K  Muriate of Potash (MOP) or  17 kg  33 kg 
Sulphate of Potash (SOP)  20 kg  40 kg 
Zn 

(For Zn deficient soil) 

 

ANSHUL ZINC EDTA-FS (ZN 12%) micronutrient

 

 

Foliar spray: 0.5 – 1gm/l 

Soil application: 10 kg 

Foliar spray: 0.5 – 1 gm/l 

Soil application: 10 kg 

Mg  

(For Mg deficient soil) 

Multiplex Multi Mag (Magnesium Sulphate) 

Foliar spray: 3 – 4 g/l 

Soil application: 20 – 25 kg 

Foliar spray: 3 – 4 g/l 

Soil application: 20 – 25 kg 

 

  1. Suggest crops suitable for intercropping with cotton?

Short duration and quickly developing legumes such as black gram, green gram, soybean and cow pea, and vegetables (namely beet, onion, chilli) are suitable for cotton-based intercropping. 

  1. Which pre-emergence herbicide can be sprayed in cotton field to prevent weeds?

Apply BACF PLOD herbicide (Pendimethalin 30% EC) at 1000 ml/acre, 3 days after sowing using hand operated sprayer fitted with deflecting or fan type nozzle.

Note: The information contained herein is for informational purposes only. Nothing herein shall be construed to be financial or legal advice. Pesticides are a considerable risk of loss in crops and viewers are advised to do their own research before making any decisions.

  

 

Field Preparation for Maize

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Field Preparation for Maize
Field Preparation for Maize

Maize or corn Zea mays is the world’s most versatile crop. India is the 7th largest producer of maize in the world. In the year 2021-22 alone the country has exported 3,690,469.12 MT of maize to the world for the worth of Rs. 7,615.46 crores.  India’s major maize-growing states are Andra Pradesh, Karnataka, Bihar, Maharastra, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Tamil Nadu. Due to its versatile nature, maize is a very important crop that is grown in non-traditional regions like Jammu and Kasmir and other North Eastern states.

Difficulty Level:

Medium

Selection of Seeds:

There are well over 3000 varieties of corn that are available in the market today. Popular varieties that are grown today are Ambrosia Hybrid Corn,  Jubilee Hybrid Corn,  Honey Select Hybrid Corn,  Golden Bantam Corn, Pioneer( P3396 and P3344), Dekalb (DKC 9178 and DKC 9081), Syngenta (NK7328 and NK30), CP (818, and 333), Tata seeds (DMH 8255), Advanta (Hi-Brix 53 ), Kaveri Seeds ( KMH 1411)  and Hytech Sona – 5101.

Pre-soaking of Seeds:

Seeds need to be soaked overnight for better germination. As corn seeds are shrivelled for preservation purposes.

Maize Seed Treatment:

To prevent termites and other soil-borne insects the maize seeds are treated with Imidacloprid 70WS (7.5-8g a.i /Kg of seeds).

To control seed borne diseases, treat maize seeds with carbendazim or thiram at 2g/kg of seed. The seed treatment for maize will prevent the seeds from seed borne diseases like smut, downy mildew, charcol rot etc . After the treatment shade dry the seeds for 15 minutes and later can go for sowing of seeds in a field.

Field Preparations for Maize:

  • Soil Type Requirements for maize:

A well-drained sandy red soil or black cotton soil is suitable for maize production.

  • Soil pH for Maize Production:

Maize, due to its hardy nature can grow very well in soil with pH levels anywhere from 5.5 to 7.5, depending on the variety. The optimal pH is 6 to 6.5.

Land Preparations of Maize:

The land preparation for maize needs to be weeded completely. Farmers can use four prangs and completely remove all the weeds. This includes residue from previous crop production. Apply 12.5 tons/acre of FYM or composted coir pith and apply 10 packets of Azospirillum in the field and plough the land five to six times for a fine tilth. Then proceed to prepare ridges and furrows with 45 cm spacing. Ridges and furrows help in sasaving irrigation water.

Maize Sowing:

Maize is traditionally sown directly in the field. The seeds are sown at 1/3rd of the ridge from the bottom.

Conclusion:

Maize is a hardy crop that can be grown anywhere in the country. Maize also requires less maintenance and high return due to its high demand. Unlike other cash crops like rice and sugarcane maize also requires significantly less amount of water. Corn is definitely highly recommended for less effort with high returns.

FAQs 

  1. Suggest some popular varieties of maize?
States  Varieties/Hybrid 
Andhra Pradesh 

 

Shine hybrid maize seeds rise, Pioneer Agro Corn seed/ maize seed, Rise-303 Shine Hybrid maize seeds
Telangana  Pioneer Agro Corn seed/ Maize seed, Shine Hybrid Maize seeds rise 
Karnataka  Rise-303 Shine Hybrid maize seeds, Pioneer Agro corn seed/ maize seed, Rise-202 shine hybrid maize seeds

Shine Hybrid Maize seeds rise-404 seeds 

Tamil Nadu  Pioneer Agro Corn seed/ maize seed 

 

  1. How is seed treatment done for Maize?

Maize seeds can be treated with Fortenza duo insecticide at 4ml/kg of seed mainly to control fall armyworm. 

  1. Can I grow maize in sandy soil?

A well-drained sandy red soil or black cotton soil is suitable for maize production. 

  1. What is the seed rate for maize?

For Hybrids/Composites – 7 to 9 kg/acre 

Fodder – 16 to 20 kg/acre. 

  1. What is the ideal spacing of maize for optimum yield?

Adopt a spacing of 60 x 20 cm. 

  1. What is the fertilizer recommendation for maize?

The general dose of fertilizer recommendation for maize is 60:26:26 kg/acre. The commercial quantity to be applied in the field is mentioned in the table below: 

Nutrient  Fertilizers  General Dose (per acre) 
Organic  FYM or coir pith compost   5 ton 
N  Urea (or)  109 kg 
Ammonium Sulphate  244 kg 
P  Di Ammonium Phosphate (DAP)  56 kg 
K  Muriate of Potash (MOP) (or)  43 kg 
Sulphate of Potash  52 kg 
Zn  

(For Zinc deficient soil) 

Zinc Micronutrient Fertilizer (Z3)  Foliar application: 0.5 – 1 g/l 

Soil application: 10 kg 

Fe 

(For iron deficient soil) 

Shamrock Iron (Ferrous) Chelated Micronutrient   Foliar application: 

1gm/1 litre 

Soil application: 10 kg 

Biofertilizer  Azospirillum (Pioneer Agro)   4 kg (Soil application) 

 

  1. What is the pre-emergence herbicide used to control weeds in maize field?

Apply Atrazine 50 WP (Atrataf at 1 -2 g/l) as pre-emergence on 3 – 5 DAS using Backpack/ Knapsack/ Rocker sprayer followed by one hand weeding on 30 – 35 DAS.

Note: The information contained herein is for informational purposes only. Nothing herein shall be construed to be financial or legal advice. Pesticides are a considerable risk of loss in crops and viewers are advised to do their own research before making any decisions.

 

Field Preparation for Paddy 

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Field Preparation for Paddy
Field Preparation for Paddy


India in the year 2021 – 22 in the Kharif season alone produced 111.76 million tonnes. India is the world’s second-largest rice producer. There has been a steady growth in paddy crop production over the past decade. India has the largest area under rice cultivation, far higher than any other agricultural crop. Rice is produced all across the country.

Difficulty Level: Hard

Selection of Seeds

There are over 10,000 varieties of rice available on market today. The major types of rice that are cultivated in the country are Basmati, Joha, Jyothi, Navara, Ponni, Pusa, Sona Masuri, Jaya, Kalajiri (aromatic), Boli, Palakkad Matta, Kattamodon, Kairali, Jyothy, Bhadra, Asha, Rakthashali of Kerala; Red Kavuni, Kaivara Samba, Mappillai Samba, Kuruvi Kar, and Poongar of Tamil Nadu. In the last year alone there were over 800 varieties of new rice strands were introduced.

Pre-soaking of Seeds

There are two methods of pre-soaking of seeds. There is seed priming and pre-germination soak. Seed priming is Paddy seed priming is to soak the seeds for 4 – 8 hours and re-dry the seeds before sowing.  Pre – germination of paddy seed treatment is to immerse the seed under water for 12 – 24 hours.

Paddy Seed Treatment

  • Bio Paddy Seed Treatment

There are several seed treatment options for paddy to choose from. There are both organic and inorganic methods of paddy seed treatment. Popular organic seed treatments for paddy are to use 600g/ha of Azospirillium or 1200g/ha of Azophos. In this bio-inoculation with an adequate amount of water overnight before sowing. Biocontrol agents for paddy are compatible with biofertilizers., therefore biofertilizers and biocontrol agents can be mixed together. Paddy seed treatment with Pseudomonas fluorescens with the talc-based formulation of Pseudomonas fluorescens 10g/kg of seed and soak in 1 litre of water overnight. The excess water can be decanted and the seeds are allowed 24 hrs to sprout and then sow.

  • Chemical Paddy Seed Treatment

Fungicide and biocontrol agents are not compatible. Fungicidal paddy seed treatment coating of seeds with fungicides such as Benlate or Mancozeb or Arazone red 3g/l for 1kg of seeds. Carbendazim or Pyroquilon or Tricyclozole solution at 2 g/l of water for 1 kg of seeds can be used to treat other seed-borne pathogens. Carbendazim (Bavistin) is coated at 2 g per litre of water for 1 kg of seeds. The seeds are then soaked in water for 10 hours and the excess water is drained. This is called a wet seed treatment which gives up to 40 days of protection from other diseases such as blast. Store the treated seeds in a gunny bag in a dark area and cover it with extra gunny bags. The seeds are to be left undisturbed for 24 hours for sprouting.

Nursery Bed Preparation for Paddy

There are various kinds of paddy nursery bed preparation that are practised. There are wet nurseries. The plots are marked at 2.5m breadth with 30cm wide channels all around the seedbeds. According to the soil and slope of the land, the length of the seedbed may vary.

The nursery should have a sufficient water supply as well as proper drainage. Dry plough the nursery twice and apply 1 ton of FYM. Replough the nursery and flood the nursery. The water should stay stagnant for another two days. This should be followed by puddling of the field.

Puddle the fields with 5 – 10 cm of stagnant water. Puddling is done with an iron puddler. Puddle the fields in opposite directions to loosen up the soil for better water percolation. Some of the more recent unconventional and unique paddy nursery bed preparation methods include Dapog, Mat and dry nursery.

Field Preparations for Paddy

  • Soil Type

Requirements for paddy is black loam. Paddy grows best in clayey loam or black loam.

  • Soil pH

Slightly acidic soil (pH 6)

Paddy Field Preparation (Transplanting Field)

The paddy field is prepared by flooding the fields one or two days before transplanting. The field is ploughed once or twice for a good tilth. During the final ploughing apply 12.5 t of FYM or compost or green leaf manure at 6.25 t/ha. Ten days before transplanting apply 22 kg/ha of urea. There should be a minimum of 2 – 2.5cm of water at the time of transplanting.

Conclusion

Paddy is a crop that requires a lot of care and maintenance. It is not an easy crop to cultivate. Rice, however, is the country’s most staple meal, therefore there is always market demand for rice.

FAQs 

  1. What are the popular varieties of Paddy?
States  Popular varieties 
Tamil Nadu  Short duration – IR64, CO 47, ADT 36, MDU 5, ASD 16 

Medium duration – IR 20, CO43, ADT 46, MDU 3,4, white ponni 

Long duration – Ponmani (CR1009), BPT 5204 

Hybrid – CORH 1, CORH 2, CORH 3 

Karnataka  Madhu, Jothi, Jaya, Shakthi, Prakash, Pragathi 
Andhra Pradesh  MTU 1156, MTU 1153, NLR 34449, Jyothi, ADT 37, BPT 5204, NLR 3111, BPT 2858 (Red rice), Swarna 
Telangana  NLR 145, NLR 28523, BPT 3291, MTU 5293, MTU 1156, MTU 1153, MTU – 1290, Co 51, Super Aman, Telangana Sona (RNR 15048), KNM 1638 (Kunaram vari 2), WGL 962 (Warangal vari 2), JGL 1798 (Jagityal Sannalu) 
Kerala  Short duration – Kattamodan-tall (PTB 28), Rohini (PTB 36), Jyothi (PTB 39), Swarna Prabha (PTB 43), Kairali (PTB 49), Kanjana (PTB 50) 

Medium duration– Aswathy (PTB 37), Sabari (PTB 40), Aathira (PTB 51), Aiswarya (PTB 52), Asha MO 5 

Long duration – Reshmi (PTB 44), Nila (PTB 48), Karuna (PTB 54), Makaram (KTR 2), Kumbham (KTR 3) 

 

  1. How to avoid root snapping while pulling out the seedling for transplanting in Paddy?
  • Apply 2 kg of DAP per cent, 10 days prior to pulling out, if seedlings are to be pulled out after 25 days. 
  • In case of clayey soils where root snapping is a problem, 4 kg of gypsum and 1 kg of DAP/cent can be applied at 10 days after sowing.  
  1. What is the optimum planting depth for better establishment of paddy?
  • Shallow planting (3 cm) ensures quick establishment and more tillers 
  • Deeper planting (> 5cm) leads to delayed establishment and reduced tillers. 
  1. When and how much green leaf manure should be applied in Paddy field?

During the final ploughing, apply green leaf manure at 2.5 t/acre. 

  1. How is seed treatment for paddy done?

There are several seed treatment options for paddy to choose from. 

Biological seed treatment: 

Treat the paddy seeds with 10ml of Azospirillium (SUN BIO AZOS) or Phosphobacteria (SUN BIO PHOSI) in cold jaggery solution and apply evenly on seeds surface. Dry the treated seeds in shade and use it on the same day.  Paddy seeds can also be treated with talc – based formulation of Pseudomonas fluorescens (SONKUL SUN BIO MONUS) at 10 gm/kg of seed and soak in 1 litre of water overnight. The excess water should be decanted and allow the seeds to sprout for 24 hrs and then sow. 

(Note: Biocontrol agents for paddy are compatible with biofertilizers., therefore biofertilizers and biocontrol agents can be mixed together) 

Chemical seed treatment: 

Treat the seeds with Bavistin (Carbendazim 50% WP) at 2g/l or BAAN fungicide (Tricyclazole 75% WP) at 1 g/l of water for 1 kg of seeds. Soak the seeds in water for 10 hrs and drain excess water. This wet seed treatment gives protection to seedlings up to 40 days from seedling disease such as blast. If the seeds are required for sowing immediately, keep the soaked seed in gunny in dark and cover with extra gunnies and leave for 24 hrs for sprouting.  

(Note: Fungicides and biocontrol agents are incompatible., therefore they should not be mixed together) 

  1. What is the general dose of fertilizer recommendation for paddy crop?

General dose of fertilizer recommendation for paddy is 49:24:24 kg/acre. The commercial quantity to be applied in the field is mentioned in the table below. 

Nutrient  Fertilizers  General Dose (per acre) 
Organic  FYM/compost. 

or 

Green leaf manure 

5 ton 

or 

2 – 3 ton 

N  Urea (or)  106 kg 
Ammonium Sulphate  239 kg 
P  Single Super Phosphate (SSP) (or)  150 kg 
Double Super Phosphate (DSP)  75 kg 
K  Muriate of Potash (MOP) (or)  40 kg 
Sulphate of Potash  48 kg 
Zn  

(For Zinc deficient soil) 

Zinc Micronutrient Fertilizer (Z3)  Foliar spray: 0.5 – 1 g/l 

Soil application: 10 kg 

 

  1. What is the pre-emergence herbicide used for paddy to control weed growth?

Apply pre-emergence herbicide Pretilachlor 50% EC (Craze or RACER) at 500 ml/acre or Pyrazosulfuron ethyl (Saathi herbicide) at 80 gm per acre. They should be applied within 3 – 4 days of transplanting.

Note: The information contained herein is for informational purposes only. Nothing herein shall be construed to be financial or legal advice. Pesticides are a considerable risk of loss in crops and viewers are advised to do their own research before making any decisions.

 

Planting Potatoes? Maximize Your Harvest with Proper Field Preparation

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Field Preparation for Potato
Field Preparation for Potato



Potato cultivation in India is there for 300 years. India in the fiscal year of 2021 the state of Uttar Pradesh alone produced about 16 million tons of potatoes. Potato export in the year 2019 – 2020 brought in 5 billion INR. Potatoes are a hardy crop that can grow in any region. Major potato-growing states in India are Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Karnataka, West Bengal, Bihar and Assam. Due to their versatility, value-added potatoes are always in demand.  

Difficulty Level:

Hard

Selection of Seeds:

Potatoes are usually propagated using seed tubers. The popular varieties include Kufri Sindhuri, Kufri Chandramukhi, Kufri Jyoti, Kufri Lauvkar, Kufri Badshah, Kufri Bahar, Kufri Lalima, Kufri Jawahar, Kufri Sutlej, Kufri Ashoka, Kufri Pukhraj, Kufri Chipsona, and Kufri Anand. The exotic varieties of potatoes are Russet, Round White, Long White, Round Red, Yellow Flesh, Blue and Purple.  

Potato Seed Treatment:

Seed treatment is done to prevent seed-borne diseases such as black scurf, black leg, fusarium rot and late blight. Treat the seed tubers as a whole or cut them into halves with captan @ 2g/litre. Potato seed treatment is often done within 6 hrs of cutting. Treating the seeds with humic acid or organic growth booster will provide the plant with the necessary nutrients for germination and growth propagation 

Field Preparations for Potato:

  • Soil Type Requirements for potato:

Potatoes are grown in all types of soil except alkaline or saline soils. Soil that is naturally loose and promotes tuber growth and enlargement is ideally preferred. Loamy and sandy loam soil with rich organic matter and good drainage and aeration are best suited for cultivation.  

  • Soil pH for Potato Production:

Potato grows best in slightly acidic soil. The soil with a pH range of 5.2 – 6.4 is considered to be optimal. 

Land Preparations for Potatoes:

The land is ploughed with 20 – 25 cm and the tilled soil is exposed to the sun. Soil has to have high pore space which promotes better tuber growth and development. Add well-decomposed FYM 25 – 30 T/ha and mix it during the last ploughing. Furrows are created 50 – 60 cm before planting. The whole or cut tuber is then planted 15 – 20 cm apart on the centre of the ridge with a 5 – 7 cm depth and is covered with soil. The average seed rate is 1.5 – 1.8 t/ha for round varieties and 2 – 2.5 t/ha for oval varieties.  

There is a four-row potato planter that ICAR has released into the market that is becoming very popular among potato farmers in recent times. This device requires 2- 3 people to operate and plant up to 4- 5 hectares per day, reducing the labour cost significantly.  

Conclusion:

Potato is a hardy crop that is grown almost everywhere. Potato is an ideal crop where when value is added even during times with low market rates, it always guarantees a good return on investment. Unlike other crops, potatoes can be cultivated anywhere at any time.   

FAQs 

1. What are the popular varieties of potatoes in India? 

States  Varieties 
Karnataka  Kufri Sindhuri, Kufri Jyoti, Kufri Lauvkar, Kufri Jawahar 
Tamil Nadu  Kufri Jyoti, Kufri Malar, Kufri Muthu, Kufri Swarna, Kufri Thangam, Kufri soga, Kufri Giriraj 
Telangana  Kufri Chandramukhi, Kufri Badshah, Kufri Pushraj, Kufri Jyoti, Kufri Khyati, Kufri Surya 
Andhra Pradesh  Kufri Chandramukhi, Kufri Jyoti, Kufri Himalani, Kufri Sindhuri, Kufri Lalima 
Himachal Pradesh  Kufri Chandramukhi, Kufri Jyoti, Kufri Bahar, Kufri Pushraj 
Uttar Pradesh  Kufri Chipsona-1, Kufri Chipsona-2, Kufri Ashoka, Kufri Lalima 

 

  1. How is potato tuber treatment done?

Treat the tubers with Metalaxyl 35 % (Ridomet or Krilaxyl power) 1g/l + 2-BROMO 2-NITRO PROPANE – 1,3 DIOL; 95% w/w (Bactinash) 0.5 g/l + Humic acid substance (V-Hume Plus) 10 ml/l of water. 

  1. What is the seed rate of potato varieties in India?

The average seed rate is 0.6 – 0.7 t/acre for round varieties and 0.8 – 1 t/acre for oval varieties. 

  1. What is the ideal soil type for potato cultivation?

Potatoes are grown in all types of soil except alkaline or saline soils. Loamy and sandy loam soil with rich organic matter and good drainage and aeration are best suited for cultivation. 

  1. How to plant potato tuber?

Furrows are created 50 – 60 cm before planting. The whole or cut tuber is then planted 15 – 20 cm apart on the centre of the ridge with a 5 – 7 cm depth and is covered with soil. Four-row potato planter released by ICAR will be effective for this purpose which also reduces labour costs significantly. 

(Tuber – It is a part of the plant that grows beneath the soil surface) 

  1. What is the general dose of fertilizer recommendation for potatoes?

The general dose of fertilizer recommendation for potatoes is 49:24:49 kg/acre. The commercial quantity to be applied in the field (per acre) is mentioned in the table below. 

Nutrient  Fertilizers  General Dose (per acre) 
Organic  FYM/compost.  10 –11 ton 
N  Urea (or)  105 kg 
Ammonium Sulphate  237 kg 
P  Single Super Phosphate (SSP) (or)  152 kg 
Double Super Phosphate (DSP)  76 kg 
K  Muriate of Potash (MOP) (or)  81 kg 
Sulphate of Potash  97 kg 
Mg   Magnesium sulphate (Multiplex Multi MAG)  Foliar spray: 3 – 4 g/l 
Biofertilizer   Azospirillium (Pioneer Agro) and  Phosphobacteria (Pioneer Agro)  4 kg each 

 

Note: The information contained herein is for informational purposes only. Nothing herein shall be construed to be financial or legal advice. Pesticides are a considerable risk of loss in crops and viewers are advised to do their own research before making any decisions.