Control of Foot Rot Disease in Paddy Nursery
Foot rot is a common disease that affects paddy cultivation. This disease is caused by a fungus that attacks the roots of paddy plants, leading to stunted growth, yellowing of leaves, and eventually death of the plant. The disease is especially prevalent in nurseries, where young paddy plants are grown before being transplanted to the main fields.
The following are some of the measures that can be taken to control foot rot disease in paddy nurseries.
1. Use disease-free seeds: It is important to use disease-free seeds for paddy cultivation. This can be achieved by soaking the seeds in hot water (55-60°C) for 30 minutes before sowing. This method helps to kill the fungus present on the seed surface and reduce the risk of infection.
2. Soil sterilization: The soil in the nursery should be sterilized using steam or chemicals like methyl bromide to kill the fungus that causes foot rot. This should be done before sowing the seeds. Sterilization helps to reduce the incidence of the disease.
3. Crop rotation: Crop rotation is an effective way to control foot rot disease. Paddy should not be grown continuously in the same field. Instead, the fields should be rotated with other crops such as legumes, vegetables, or other cereals for at least two years before re-planting paddy.
4. Proper drainage: Foot rot disease thrives in wet and poorly drained soils. Proper drainage should be established in the nursery to ensure that the soil does not become waterlogged. This can be achieved by leveling the land and constructing drainage canals.
5. Chemical control: In severe cases, chemical control may be necessary. Fungicides like carbendazim, thiram, and mancozeb can be applied to control foot rot disease. However, chemical control should be used as a last resort and only under the guidance of a qualified agronomist.
In conclusion, foot rot disease can be controlled in paddy nurseries by using disease-free seeds, soil sterilization, crop rotation, proper drainage, and chemical control if necessary. These measures will help to ensure the healthy growth of paddy plants and increase crop yield.