The Brown spot disease of paddy is also known as Sesame leaf spot, fungal blight or Helmintosporiose. The fungus can affect the seedlings as well as the plants on the main field.
Symptoms of Brown Spot
The appearance of brown spots is the main symptom of this disease. The spots are seen in the sheath of the seedlings, leaf sheaths, and along the lead blades and glumes. These spots appear oval in shape or in cylindrical shapes. The brown colour of the spots gets deep and later gets a yellow halo around it. As the disease spreads, these spots become elongated and enlarged causing drying of the affected leaves. It can also cause browning of the grains affecting the quality and quantity of the yield.
Preventive Measures
- Seed treatment prior to sowing is necessary
- Choosing resistant variety
- Use slow-releasing nitrogen fertilizers
- Keep the farmland free from weeds, and debris to control the spread of disease.
Some effective chemicals to control Brown Spot in Paddy
- Tilt Fungicide is a broad-spectrum foliar fungicide made of Propiconazole 25% EC. The plants take it upwards through the xylem and distribute it inside evenly. It is not easily washed off and can last for a long time. The recommended dosage is 200 ml per acre or 1 ml per litre of water.
- Contaf Plus Fungicide has a systemic mode of action that can pass from the treated parts into the newly developed parts of the plant. It contains Hexaconazole 5% SC. It can last longer to stay intact between applications. It is also a tonic for the plants to promote their growth and yield. Mix 2 ml of the product in one litre of water for application.
- Merger Fungicide has both systemic and contact mode of action. It contains Tricyclazole 18% and Mancozeb 62% WP. This combination works against the sulfhydryl enzymes inside the fungi and destroys them. It is safe to be used repeatedly and safe for the environment as well. Effective use can control the disease and promote the overall growth of the plant. Use 400 – 500 gm per acre or 2 – 2.5 gm per litre of water.
- Godiwa Super Fungicide acts both by translaminar and acropetal methods. It acts quicker and gets dispersed inside the plant faster. The action lasts longer, and the active principles are Azoxystrobin 18.2% and Difenoconazole 11.4% SC. Apply 200 ml per acre or 1 ml per litre of water for best results.
Conclusion
Brown spot disease of paddy can seriously affect the yield, so it needs prompt treatments and preventive measures. It is important to apply the fungicides regularly.
