Management Of Grassy Stunt Virus In Paddy

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