Fungal attack is one of the major challenges faced by the brinjal growers. Brinjal, also known as eggplant, is a vegetable crop widely grown in tropical and sub-tropical regions. As this crop is susceptible to fungal infections, it is crucial to take appropriate control measures to prevent and manage fungal attacks. In this article, we will discuss the information regarding control measures of fungal attack in brinjal vegetable crop.
Disease management strategies for fungal attack in brinjal:
1. Selecting healthy planting material: The use of healthy planting material is the first and foremost step to prevent fungal attack. Growers should always select healthy and disease-free seedlings, and avoid using infected plants for propagation.
2. Crop rotation: Crop rotation is an effective strategy to prevent the build-up of fungal pathogens in the soil. Growers should practice crop rotation, by growing non-host crops in the same field for a year or more before planting brinjal again.
3. Soil preparation: Proper soil preparation is also important to prevent fungal attack. The soil should be well-drained, and organic matter should be added to improve soil fertility.
4. Proper irrigation: Over-watering and irrigating during cloudy and damp weather can create conditions favorable for the growth of fungi. Therefore, proper irrigation management should be practiced to prevent moisture from accumulating on the leaves and other plant parts.
5. Chemical control: If fungal infections are observed, growers can opt for chemical control measures. A wide range of fungicides are available for controlling fungal diseases in brinjal. However, it is crucial to follow the instructions on the label of the product, and the proper dose and application method should be used.
6. Biological control: The use of biological control measures can also be effective in controlling fungal diseases in brinjal. Biocontrol agents, such as Trichoderma spp., Pseudomonas spp., and Bacillus spp., can be used to suppress fungal infection.
7. Proper management of plant debris: Clean cultivation practices, such as removing and destroying infected plant debris and weeds, can also help to prevent fungal diseases from spreading.
In conclusion, fungal attack is a major challenge for brinjal growers. However, by adopting proper management practices, growers can effectively prevent and manage this disease. The use of healthy planting material, crop rotation, soil preparation, proper irrigation, chemical and biological control measures, and proper management of plant debris are all important measures to control fungal attack in brinjal. By applying these measures, growers can ensure a healthy and productive crop.