Fungal diseases are a common problem faced by many farmers when growing brinjal crops. These diseases can cause significant damage to the plant, resulting in lower crop yield and quality. However, there are several measures one can take to control fungal attacks in eggplants.
1. Choose the right variety of brinjal: Choosing a resistant variety of brinjal can go a long way in preventing fungal attacks. Varieties such as Arka Sheel, Arka Kusumakar, and Arka Neelkanth are known to be resistant to fungal diseases.
2. Crop rotation: Rotation of crops is beneficial in preventing the buildup of fungi in the soil. One can alternate the crop with other plants such as cereals or legumes.
3. Use of fungicides: Chemical fungicides can be used as a preventive measure to control fungal diseases. However, one should use them cautiously and strictly follow the manufacturer’s instructions in terms of dosage and timing of application.
4. Proper irrigation: Overwatering or pooling of water around the plant can lead to a high humidity environment favoring fungal growth. Ensure that your irrigation system waters the plant sufficiently, but not excessively. Also, avoid watering late in the evening, as this can lead to prolonged periods of leaf wetness, which can encourage fungal growth.
5. Remove infected leaves and plants: As soon as you notice any signs of fungal growth on your plants, remove the infected parts immediately to prevent the spread to other parts of the plant or even other plants in the vicinity.
6. Utilize organic control measures: Organic measures to control fungal diseases include the use of neem oil, garlic, and plant extracts such as Equisetum. These natural remedies have proven effective in controlling fungal diseases when used correctly.
In conclusion, preventing and controlling fungal diseases in brinjal crops requires a combination of approaches, including selecting disease-resistant varieties, crop rotation, proper irrigation, and use of fungicides or organic control measures when necessary. Regular monitoring and prompt action in case of infestation can help save and improve yields.