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Bengal gram, also known as chickpea, is an important legume crop that is widely cultivated in India and other parts of the world. However, like any other crop, chickpeas are vulnerable to various pests and diseases, including root diseases that can significantly reduce yield and quality. One of the most effective strategies for managing root diseases is to use fungal agents that can control the growth and spread of pathogenic fungi in the soil. In this article, we will discuss the use of fungi in the root control of Bengal gram crop.
As a farmer, you know that root diseases can cause serious damage to your crops. Common root diseases in Bengal gram include wilt, root rot, and collar rot, caused by pathogens such as Fusarium, Rhizoctonia, and Sclerotium. These pathogens infect the roots of the plant and cause wilting, yellowing, stunting, and eventually death of the plant. The use of chemical fungicides is one option for controlling these diseases, but it can be expensive and may have negative effects on the environment. An alternative approach is to use fungi that are natural enemies of the pathogenic fungi.
In recent years, there has been growing interest in the use of mycorrhizal fungi for root control in crops, including Bengal gram. Mycorrhizal fungi are symbiotic fungi that form associations with the roots of plants, helping them to absorb nutrients and water from the soil. These fungi also produce secondary metabolites that have antifungal properties, which can protect the plants from pathogenic fungi. Some mycorrhizal fungi have been shown to be effective in controlling root diseases in a variety of crops, including beans, peas, and soybeans.
There are several commercial products available that contain mycorrhizal fungi for use in agriculture. These products are applied to the soil before or at the time of planting, and they can increase the growth and yield of crops, as well as protect them from root diseases. For example, the mycorrhizal product Rhizophagus irregularis has been shown to enhance the growth of Bengal gram and reduce the incidence of Fusarium wilt. Similarly, the mycorrhizal product Glomus intraradices has been shown to improve the growth and yield of chickpeas and reduce the severity of root rot.
In addition to mycorrhizal fungi, there are other fungal agents that can be used for root control in Bengal gram. For example, Trichoderma fungi are known for their ability to antagonize pathogenic fungi in the soil. These fungi produce enzymes and secondary metabolites that can inhibit the growth of pathogens, as well as induce systemic resistance in the plant. Some Trichoderma strains have been shown to be effective in controlling Fusarium and Rhizoctonia root rot in Bengal gram.
In conclusion, as a farmer, it is important to take proactive measures to prevent and manage root diseases in your crops. The use of fungal agents, such as mycorrhizal fungi and Trichoderma, can be an effective and sustainable approach to root control in Bengal gram. By incorporating these fungi into your management practices, you may be able to reduce the incidence and severity of root diseases, as well as improve the growth and yield of your crops. However, it is important to choose the right fungal agent and apply it correctly, based on the specific needs of your crop and soil conditions.