Sheath blight is a common disease that affects paddy crops, also known as jhona in some areas. It is caused by the fungus Rhizoctonia solani, which attacks the leaf sheaths and stems of the plant and can lead to significant yield losses if not managed properly. Here are some strategies to control sheath blight attack on a paddy crop:
1. Crop rotation: It is important to avoid planting paddy in the same field every year, as this can lead to a build-up of fungal spores in the soil. Crop rotation with non-host crops like legumes, oilseeds, or vegetables can help reduce disease pressure.
2. Use disease-resistant varieties: Planting disease-resistant varieties of paddy is an effective way to reduce the incidence of sheath blight in the field. These varieties have resistance genes that prevent or reduce the growth and spread of the fungus.
3. Maintain good field sanitation: Proper field management practices, such as removing crop residues, weeds, and infected plant materials from the field, can help reduce the incidence of sheath blight. Farmers should also avoid excessive irrigation and fertilization, as these practices can promote fungal growth.
4. Fungicide applications: In severe cases, where other measures have failed, farmers can use fungicides to control sheath blight. However, this should be done as a last resort, as overuse of fungicides can lead to the development of fungal resistance and environmental pollution.
5. Biological control: There are some biological control agents, such as Trichoderma spp. and Bacillus subtilis, which can be used to control sheath blight in paddy crops. These agents are eco-friendly and do not leave any harmful residues.
In conclusion, the control of sheath blight attack on paddy crops requires a combination of preventive and curative measures. Farmers should implement good field management practices, adopt resistant varieties, and only use fungicides as a last resort. These strategies will help mitigate the damage of the disease and improve overall yields of paddy crops.