Sheath blight is a common fungal disease that infects paddy crops, and can cause significant yield loss if not controlled properly. As a farmer, it’s essential to have access to information regarding control measures to prevent and manage sheath blight outbreaks in your fields.
The first step towards effective control of sheath blight is to practice proper crop management techniques. This includes maintaining the right soil moisture, fertilizer application, and timely irrigation. It’s also helpful to choose paddy varieties that are resistant to sheath blight.
Another critical aspect of sheath blight control is ensuring the integrity of the seedlings. This can be achieved through seed treatment with fungicides such as carboxin or thiram before planting. The application of fungicides during the vegetative growth stage can also be effective in controlling the disease.
In addition to cultural practices and fungicide application, biological control agents such as Trichoderma and Bacillus species have been found to be effective in controlling sheath blight in paddy crops. These agents can either be added to the soil as soil amendments or applied as a foliar spray to the crops.
Preventive measures can also be implemented to minimize the risk of sheath blight outbreaks in your fields. These include crop rotation, proper sanitation practices, and weed management as weeds can harbor sheath blight spores, which can infect your crop.
Lastly, regular monitoring of your paddy crop for any signs of sheath blight is crucial. This can include examining the leaves and sheaths for any discoloration or lesions. Maintaining proper crop management practices, employing preventive measures, and timely intervention with fungicides or biological control agents can go a long way in controlling sheath blight in your paddy crops and ensuring good yields.