Management Of False Smut In Paddy

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

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.  

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.