In recent times, fungal attack has become one of the most significant hurdles in paddy cultivation. Farmers across the globe are confronting countless challenges while dealing with fungal diseases that cause severe damage to the crop. Fortunately, with the advancement in science and technology, there are practical ways of controlling fungal attack in paddy crops. In this article, we will discuss the information about controlling fungal attack in paddy crops.
The first and foremost method to prevent fungal attack in paddy is to maintain healthy and strong seedlings. Usage of high-quality seeds and seed treatments can enhance the immunity of the plant, which eventually results in a lower tendency of getting infected by fungal diseases. Also, timely and appropriate sowing of seeds according to the climate and temperature of the respective geographical location can help to reduce the chances of fungal infections.
Farmers should practice crop rotation, which means cultivating different crops on the same land in sequential growing seasons. Crop rotation can help to break the fungal cycle and reduce the build-up of soil-borne pathogens. Planting cover crops like cowpeas, soybeans, or clover can also be beneficial as it helps to enrich the soil and break the disease cycle.
Farmers should take adequate preventive measures while irrigating the paddy fields. Waterlogged fields are breeding grounds for fungal diseases. To avoid such situations, water quality and quantity should be regularly monitored, and suitable measures should be taken as per the crop’s requirements. Additionally, farmers should avoid overlapping irrigation, which helps to prevent the formation of puddles.
Fungi grow and reproduce exceptionally well under humid and wet conditions. Hence, maintaining a proper balance of humidity and temperature is also an effective measure to control fungal infections. To do so, it is essential to maintain good drainage facilities, provide proper ventilation, and continue to practice appropriate soil management.
Another effective way to control fungal attack in paddy crops is by using eco-friendly fungicides. Chemical fungicides can have detrimental effects on the environment and human health. Eco-friendly fungicides contain naturally occurring substances that are environmentally safe and non-toxic. Some of these include neem oil, garlic extracts, and cinnamon oil.
In conclusion, preventing fungal attacks in paddy crops requires a combination of appropriate management practices, including the use of high-quality seeds, crop rotation, timely and appropriate irrigation, proper moisture management, and the use of eco-friendly fungicides. By adopting these measures, farmers can significantly reduce the incidence of fungal diseases and ensure healthier and higher-yielding paddy crops.