Sure, here’s an article on how to control fungal attack in garlic crops:
Garlic is an important crop that is consumed all over the world. It is not just a cooking ingredient, but it is also used for medicinal purposes because of its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. However, growing garlic is not an easy task. Garlic is susceptible to fungal infections, which can drastically reduce the yield of the crop. Here we will discuss ways to control fungal attack in garlic crops.
1. Choose disease-free seeds
The first step to control fungal attack in garlic crops is to choose disease-free seeds. If you use seeds that are already infected with the fungus, your entire crop will be infected. Buy seeds from a trusted source and make sure that they are certified as disease-free.
2. Crop rotation
Crop rotation is an effective method to control fungal attack in garlic crops. Fungi survive on plant debris in the soil, so by rotating crops, you reduce the amount of plant debris in the soil. This reduces the chances of fungal infections. Garlic should be planted in a different location each year and should not be planted in the same spot for at least three years.
3. Proper irrigation
Fungi thrive in moist conditions. Therefore, it is important to ensure that the garlic crop is irrigated correctly. Garlic needs sufficient water to grow, but overwatering can increase the moisture level in the soil, promoting fungal growth. So, make sure that the plants are not overwatered.
4. Fungicides
Fungicides are an effective way to control fungal attack in garlic crops. However, chemical fungicides can be harmful to beneficial insects and the environment. Instead, organic fungicides can be used. Some of the effective organic fungicides include copper sulfate and sulfur.
5. Prune infected plants
If you notice any signs of fungal infection in your garlic crop, remove the infected plants immediately. Fungi can spread quickly and infect the entire crop. Removing infected plants can prevent the infection from spreading further.
In conclusion, fungal infection is a common problem in garlic crops. However, it can be controlled by following these simple steps. By ensuring that you use disease-free seeds, practice crop rotation, and maintain proper irrigation, you can significantly reduce the chances of fungal infection in your garlic crop. Additionally, you can use organic fungicides and remove infected plants to prevent the infection from spreading.