Bakani disease in paddy crop is a significant problem for farmers, and it can lead to significant losses in their yield. This devastating disease is caused by the fungus Pyricularia grisea and can infect the paddy crop at any growth stage.
The disease first appears on the leaves as small, diamond-shaped, water-soaked lesions with greyish centers and dark brown borders. The disease then progresses to the stem, panicles, and grains, leading to discoloration and lesions on the plant’s various parts.
The control of Bakani disease should begin even before the crop is planted in the field. Because of the fungus’s ability to survive on plant debris and soil for long periods, preseason measures should be taken to eradicate any traces of infected plant materials and clean the planting machinery.
Some of the ways of controlling the disease include:
1. Crop rotation: Crop rotation is an efficient and cost-effective practice for controlling Bakani disease. It is crucial to grow leguminous crops such as cowpeas and soybeans in the same field to break the disease’s cycle.
2. Selection of resistant varieties: Planting disease-resistant varieties can reduce the incidence and severity of Bakani disease. Varieties like IR-50 and CO-39 are tolerant to the disease and can be used in paddy fields.
3. Chemical control: The use of fungicides is another way to control Bakani disease. Fungicides such as Edifenphos, Trifloxystrobin, and Pyroquilon are suitable for treating paddy fields. However, the application of chemicals should be done with care, following dosage instructions and protective measures.
4. Proper crop management: Proper crop management practices such as balanced fertilizers, timely watering, and maintaining the correct planting distance can prevent the disease from occurring.
In conclusion, Bakani disease is a significant threat to paddy crops, causing substantial damage to farmers’ yields and income. Implementing preventative measures such as crop rotation, resistant varieties, chemical control, and proper crop management can aid in controlling the disease. Farmers should follow these measures strictly to have healthy paddy fields and avoid significant economic losses.