Management Of Sheath Rot In Rice/Paddy

Sheath rot of rice is caused by Sarocladium oryzae that causes damaging effects on the plants. They appear mostly in areas where there is excessive use of nitrogenous fertilizers.   

Symptoms of Sheath Rot

The first symptoms are seen in young leaf sheaths of the uppermost areas. Later the flag leaf sheath appears oblong and irregular with greyish-brown spots. These spots enlarge gradually to form a grey centre and brown margins. The entire leaf will sooner be covered with infections. Further infection causes rotting of panicles and the fungal growth will be visible by a white powdery appearance inside the sheath.  

Preventive Measures

• Ensure proper planting density with enough space between the crops.
• Use a lesser amount of nitrogenous fertilisers.
• Treat the seeds before sowing.
• Maintain the field clean with no debris.

Some effective chemicals to control Sheath rot in Paddy

• Dhanustin Fungicide is a broad-spectrum product that can be curative and preventive. It is easily applied on the foliage and the product can travel to all parts of the plant via xylem. The main composition of the product is Carbendazim 50% WP. The recommended dosage is 2 gm per litre of water. Once applied, the effects last for up to 10 days. The frequency of application depends on the disease severity.
• Kavach is a contact fungicide that has broad-spectrum effects. It is made of Chlorothalonil 75% WP which prevents the germination of fungal spores by working in its enzymes and metabolic activities. The recommended dosage is 2 gm per litre of water.
• Tata Master Fungicide protects the inside and outside of the plants. It is composed of Metalaxyl 8% and Mancozeb 64% WP that shows systemic activity and contact action. The product can be effective throughout the growing period of the plants. The dosage required would be 300-500 gm per acre or 1.5 – 2.5 gm per litre of water. You can use it to drench the soil as it can be absorbed by the roots and transported to all parts.
• Conika is made of Kasugamycin 5% and Copper oxychloride 45% WP. It works by both contact and systemic action. It can inhibit fungal growth by affecting its enzymes and protein synthesis. Use 300 gm per acre or 1.5 – 2 gm per litre of water.

Conclusion

Sheath rot of rice requires both preventive measures and proper application of fungicides. Regular application of the recommended dosage is essential to see the best results.