Sheath blight is a serious disease that affects paddy crops, commonly known as “jhona” in the market. It is caused by the fungus Rhizoctonia solani and is a common problem in areas with high humidity, warm temperatures, and plenty of rainfall. Sheath blight is a disease that can destroy your entire crop if not controlled effectively. Here are some steps recommended to help control sheath blight and ensure healthy and productive rice crops.
1. Crop Rotation
Crop rotation is a common and effective method of controlling sheath blight in paddy (jhona) crop. Crop rotation involves planting different crops in a particular area after a specific time. Crop rotation helps to break the cycle of disease development by moving the host plant from that area to another.
2. Use of Tolerant Varieties
Planting sheath blight-resistant rice varieties is another way to control the disease. It is essential to plant resistant varieties that can reduce the incidence and severity of the disease when it is present. Choose rice varieties that are tested and proven to resist sheath blight. These include but not limited to Surekha, Varsha, Tapaswini, and Sarjoo-52.
3. Field Sanitation
Field sanitation is an essential control measure that can help to reduce the incidence of sheath blight in your rice crop. Keeping the field free from weeds and debris can help to prevent the buildup of the fungus in the field. Ensure that all equipment used during cultivation is clean and free from the disease.
4. Fungicide Application
Fungicide application is an effective control measure that can be used to control sheath blight in paddy (jhona) crop. However, it should be used as a last resort as there are concerns about the development of resistant strains of the fungus. Fungicides such as Triazole, Tridemorph, Benomyl, Hexaconazole, Propiconazole, and Tebuconazole, can be used for effective control of the disease. It is essential to follow the recommended application rates and methods and adhere to the safe periods specified by the manufacturers to minimize adverse effects on the environment and human health.
5. Cultural Practices
Cultural practices such as proper land preparation, crop spacing, timely weed control, and the application of organic fertilizers can also help to control sheath blight in paddy (jhona) crop. Appropriate management of nitrogen fertilizer can help to reduce sheath blight incidence.
Conclusion
In summary, sheath blight can be controlled in paddy (jhona) crop by using an integrated approach that includes crop rotation, use of tolerant varieties, field sanitation, fungicide application, and cultural practices. Early detection and control measures are critical in preventing the spread of the disease. Farmers need to be vigilant, continuously monitor their fields, and take proactive measures to control the disease for maximum crop yield.