– Control of bacterial blight disease in cotton.

Bacterial blight disease is a serious issue in cotton production which can cause significant yield losses. In this article, we will discuss the control of bacterial blight disease in cotton.

Bacterial blight disease is caused by the bacterium Xanthomonas citri subsp. malvacearum. The disease can occur at any stage of cotton plant growth and can be identified by the appearance of angular water-soaked lesions on the leaves, which quickly turn brown and drop off.

To control bacterial blight disease in cotton, a combination of cultural, chemical and biological control measures can be used.

Cultural control measures include planting resistant cotton varieties and crop rotation. Resistant cotton varieties are available on the market and are designed to resist bacterial blight disease. Crop rotation is also a useful cultural control measure as it helps to reduce the number of bacteria that survive in the soil.

Chemical control measures involve the use of antibiotics, which can be applied as a seed treatment or foliar spray. Good results have been obtained with copper-based fungicides and streptomycin. However, the use of antibiotics should be done with caution and with appropriate safety measures.

Biological control measures can also be employed for the control of bacterial blight disease. Biocontrol agents such as Bacillus subtilis, Pantoea agglomerans, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa have been found to be effective against Xanthomonas citri subsp. malvacearum.

In addition to these control measures, it is important to practice good crop management practices, such as proper irrigation practices, weed control, and insect control. These practices can help to reduce plant stress and increase the cotton plants’ natural defense mechanisms.

In summary, the control of bacterial blight disease in cotton requires a combination of cultural, chemical and biological control measures. Cotton growers should use resistant cotton varieties wherever possible, practice good crop management practices, and consider the use of antibiotics and biocontrol agents. By implementing these measures, cotton growers can effectively manage bacterial blight disease and reduce yield losses.