Powdery mildew is a common fungal disease that affects a wide range of crops, including red gram (also known as pigeon pea). Red gram is an important pulse crop grown in many parts of the world, particularly in India. However, in recent years, this crop has been facing a serious threat from powdery mildew.
Powdery mildew is caused by the fungus Erysiphe cichoracearum, and is characterized by the presence of a white powdery substance on the leaves, stems, and pods of infected plants. The disease can weaken the plant, reduce its yield, and even cause the plant to die prematurely.
The symptoms of powdery mildew in red gram crop include the appearance of white powdery patches on the leaves, as well as yellowing and wilting of the affected plant parts. In severe cases, the disease can spread rapidly and cause significant damage to the crop.
To control powdery mildew in red gram crop, it is important to practice good cultural practices, such as planting resistant varieties, maintaining proper spacing between plants, and avoiding overhead irrigation. In addition, farmers can use fungicides to control the disease, but it is important to rotate the fungicides regularly to prevent the development of resistance.
Overall, powdery mildew can be a serious threat to red gram crop production, but with proper management practices, farmers can minimize the impact of the disease and protect their crop yield. It is important for farmers to be vigilant and take proactive measures to prevent and control powdery mildew in their red gram crop.