Certainly, here is an article on how to control blast in paddy crop:
Blast is a fungal disease that can significantly reduce the yield of paddy crop. It is caused by the fungus Magnaporthe oryzae and is characterized by the formation of lesions on the leaves, stem and grains of the plant. This disease is more prevalent in areas with high humidity and rainfall. Fortunately, there are several measures that farmers can take to control blast in paddy crop.
1. Seed treatment: Treating the seeds with a fungicide before sowing can help prevent the spread of blast. This is especially important in areas where the disease is widespread.
2. Crop rotation: Growing crops other than paddy in the same field can prevent the buildup of the fungus in the soil. This is because the fungus tends to survive on the debris of the previous paddy crop.
3. Clean cultivation: Proper tillage practices can also help control blast. This includes removing and burning paddy residues after harvest and avoiding waterlogging in the field.
4. Use of resistant varieties: Planting paddy varieties that are resistant to blast is among the most effective measures for controlling the disease. Resistant varieties have been developed through breeding.
5. Fungicide application: If the disease is detected in the early stages of the crop growth, fungicide application can be effective in controlling blast. Fungicides can be sprayed on the leaves and stem of the plant.
6. Proper irrigation: Proper irrigation can help prevent the spread of blast. Overhead sprinkler irrigation can lead to the spread of the fungus from infected plants to healthy ones. Drip irrigation and other precision irrigation systems can help reduce humidity and prevent the spread of the disease.
In conclusion, blast is a major fungal disease that can significantly reduce the yield of paddy crop. Fortunately, there are several measures that farmers can take to control the disease. These include seed treatment, crop rotation, clean cultivation, use of resistant varieties, fungicide application, and proper irrigation. By adopting these measures, farmers can prevent the spread of blast and ensure a good harvest.