Wheat is one of the most important cereal crops that is grown and consumed all over the world. However, it is also prone to several diseases, such as wilt, root rot and collar rot, which can significantly reduce the yield and quality of wheat.
Wilt is a common fungal disease that affects the stem and leaves of wheat plants. The first symptom is the yellowing and wilting of leaves, followed by the drying up of the stem. It is caused by the Fusarium fungus which can survive in the soil for several years. Root rot affects the roots of wheat plants, causing them to rot, turn brown and eventually die. This disease is caused by the soil-borne fungus, Rhizoctonia solani. Collar rot affects the base of the wheat stem, causing it to turn brown and rot. It is caused by the fungus, Sclerotium rolfsii, which also survives in the soil for several years.
To control these diseases in wheat, it is important to adopt a multi-pronged approach that includes cultural, biological and chemical methods. The following are some of the ways to control wilt, root rot and collar rot in wheat:
1. Crop rotation: Crop rotation is an essential cultural practice that can help control these diseases. Avoid planting wheat in the same field year after year and rotate it with other crops such as legumes, rice or corn.
2. Soil management: Managing soil moisture, drainage and fertility is crucial to controlling these diseases. Avoid over-irrigation and over-fertilization, as excessive moisture and nutrients can promote the growth of disease-causing organisms in the soil.
3. Biological control: Applying biocontrol agents such as Trichoderma and Bacillus subtilis can help reduce the incidence of these diseases. These beneficial microorganisms colonize the soil and compete with the disease-causing fungi for nutrients and space.
4. Chemical control: Fungicides such as carbendazim and thiram can be applied to control these diseases. However, their efficacy is limited, and they can also have negative effects on the environment and human health.
In conclusion, controlling wilt, root rot and collar rot in wheat requires an integrated approach that combines cultural, biological and chemical methods. Adopting good agricultural practices and using environmentally friendly control methods can ensure higher yields and better quality wheat crops.