Certainly, I can write an article on seed treatment of fungus problem in Bengal gram. Here’s the content:
Bengal gram, also known as chickpea or chana, is an important pulse crop grown across the world. However, it is prone to several diseases caused by fungi, which can significantly reduce the crop yield and quality. To mitigate this problem, seed treatment is crucial to protect the seedlings from fungal infections during germination and early growth stages. Here are some effective seed treatment methods for controlling fungus in Bengal gram:
1. Hot water treatment: This is a simple and cost-effective method of seed treatment. The seeds are soaked in hot water (50- 52°C) for 10-15 minutes, then immediately dipped in cold water for 1-2 minutes. The hot water kills the fungal spores on the seed surface, while the cold water prevents the seeds from being damaged by the hot water.
2. Chemical treatment: A variety of chemicals like Thiram, Carbendazim, and Captan can be used to treat Bengal gram seeds. These chemicals have fungicidal properties that kill the fungal spores present on the seed surface. However, it is essential to use the right concentration of the chemical to avoid damaging the seed.
3. Biocontrol treatment: Biocontrol agents like Trichoderma harzianum and Pseudomonas fluorescens can be used to control fungal infections in Bengal gram. These beneficial microorganisms can colonize the seed surface and prevent the growth of harmful fungi by producing antifungal metabolites.
4. Solar treatment: This is an eco-friendly method of seed treatment. The seeds are spread on a polythene sheet, and the sheet is placed under direct sunlight for 2-3 days. The high temperature and UV radiation of the sun kill the fungal spores on the seed surface.
In conclusion, seed treatment is a vital step in controlling fungal infections in Bengal gram. Proper seed treatment can ensure healthy seedlings and higher crop yields. Farmers should adopt these seed treatment methods to protect their Bengal gram crop from fungal diseases.