Sorghum is an important cereal crop that is cultivated worldwide due to its high adaptability and tolerance to drought and high temperatures. However, sorghum crops are often affected by wilt attack, which is a major limiting factor for its production and productivity. Wilt is a fungal disease that affects the roots and stems of the plant and if left unchecked can cause extensive damage.
To control wilt, growers must take both preventative and remedial measures to protect the crop. Here are some of the ways to control wilt attack in sorghum:
1. Crop Rotation: It is important to rotate the crops every few years to reduce the prevalence of wilt. Wilt pathogens can survive in the soil for several years, and rotating the crops interrupts their life cycle, thereby reducing their spread.
2. Resistant Varieties: Planting resistant varieties of sorghum can reduce the incidence and severity of the disease. Resistant varieties have been bred to withstand wilt, often through the introduction of specific genes that confer resistance to attack. It is important to choose the right variety depending on the specific strain of wilt in your area.
3. Sanitation: Maintaining proper sanitation in your fields is important in controlling the spread of wilt. Ensure to remove weeds, diseased plants and debris from the sorghum fields.
4. Use of Fungicides: Fungicides can be used to control wilt in sorghum. It is important to consult a professional in the field to recommend and administer the right mixture and dosage based on your area and sorghum breed. Fungicides inhibit the growth of the fungus and reduce its prevalence.
5. Soil Management: Proper soil management practices can help control wilt. The disease is often prevalent in soil with poor drainage and a high water table, and it is recommended to maintain the proper moisture level of the soil based on the soil type.
In conclusion, wilt remains a serious challenge that affects the production and productivity of sorghum. Growers can implement various preventative and remedial measures to control wilt attacks from their sorghum plants. Additionally, timely action and using the right techniques in combination will help to control and manage the symptoms of wilt attack, reducing the risk of loss and improving yields.