Sure, here’s an article on fungus control information for groundnut crop:
Fungus Control Information for Groundnut Crop
Groundnut, also known as peanut, is a legume crop that is widely cultivated for its oil-rich nuts. It is an important source of protein and oil for human consumption, animal feed, and industrial purposes. However, groundnut plants are susceptible to various fungal diseases that can cause considerable yield losses and quality deterioration. In this article, we will discuss some of the common fungal diseases of groundnut and their control measures.
1. Early leaf spot (Cercospora arachidicola)
Early leaf spot is a devastating fungal disease that occurs in the early stages of groundnut growth. It appears as small, brownish-black spots on the leaves, which later merge to form large blotches. Infected leaves may defoliate prematurely, leading to reduced photosynthesis and stunted growth. The fungus also attacks stems, pods, and seeds, causing browning, shriveling, and rotting.
Control measures:
– Use certified disease-free seeds.
– Rotate groundnut with non-legume crops for at least two years.
– Apply fungicides (such as chlorothalonil, azoxystrobin, or tebuconazole) at recommended rates and intervals.
– Remove and destroy infected plant debris to reduce inoculum.
2. Late leaf spot (Phaeoisariopsis personata)
Late leaf spot is another damaging fungal disease that affects mature groundnut plants. It causes small, circular lesions on the leaves, which have a dark-brown margin and a gray center. The lesions may coalesce to form irregular spots that cover most of the leaf surface. Infected leaves fall off prematurely, weakening the plant and reducing yield and quality.
Control measures:
– Follow the same measures for early leaf spot control.
– Avoid overhead irrigation, which can spread the disease.
– Use resistant groundnut varieties (such as JL-24, Chico, or Sparrow).
3. Stem rot (Sclerotium rolfsii)
Stem rot is a soil-borne fungal disease that attacks groundnut plants at any stage of growth. It causes a wilted appearance of the plant, with the lower leaves turning yellow and the upper leaves remaining green. The stem near the soil line becomes brown and hollow, and white fuzzy mycelium can be observed on the stem and around the base of the plant. The fungus produces hard, dark-brown sclerotia that survive in the soil for many years.
Control measures:
– Improve soil drainage and aeration.
– Avoid planting groundnut in fields with a history of stem rot.
– Apply fungicides (such as carbendazim, flutolanil, or oxathiapiprolin) at recommended rates and intervals.
– Remove and burn infected plant debris and soil to reduce sclerotia.
In conclusion, fungal diseases can cause significant damage to groundnut crops if left uncontrolled. Therefore, farmers should be vigilant in monitoring their fields for signs of disease and implementing appropriate control measures. By following good cultural practices, using resistant varieties, and using fungicides judiciously, growers can minimize yield losses and ensure a healthy and profitable crop.