Black gram is an important pulse crop that is widely grown in India and other parts of the world. It is a rich source of protein, vitamins, and minerals, and therefore, plays a vital role in the human diet. However, black gram crops are prone to fungal attacks, which can significantly reduce yields and quality. In this article, we discuss some effective ways to control fungal attacks in black gram crops.
1. Crop rotation: Crop rotation is a simple yet effective way to control fungal attacks in black gram crops. Rotating black gram with other crops such as sorghum, maize, and cotton can help break the lifecycle of fungus that attacks black gram crops.
2. Seed treatment: Seed treatment is an important step in preventing fungal attacks in black gram crops. Treating black gram seeds with fungicides such as captan, thiram, and carbendazim can help protect the plants against fungal attacks. Before treating the seeds, they should be thoroughly cleaned and washed to remove any dirt or debris.
3. Proper irrigation: Fungal attacks thrive in moist conditions, and therefore, proper irrigation practices can help prevent fungal attacks in black gram crops. Over-watering should be avoided, and irrigation should be done at regular intervals to maintain the soil moisture levels.
4. Good sanitation practices: Sanitation practices such as removal of crop residues and weed growth can help reduce the incidence of fungal attacks. Infected plant debris should be disposed of properly, and weeds should be removed regularly to prevent the buildup of fungal spores.
5. Use of biocontrol agents: Biocontrol agents such as Trichoderma and Pseudomonas can be used to control fungal attacks in black gram crops. These agents are effective in reducing the incidence of fungal attacks and can help boost crop yields.
In conclusion, fungal attacks in black gram crops can significantly reduce yields and quality. However, by practicing crop rotation, seed treatment, proper irrigation, good sanitation practices, and using biocontrol agents, farmers can effectively control fungal attacks and improve the quality and quantity of their black gram crops.