As one of the most important crops in India, gram (chickpea) is susceptible to fungal attack. Fungal diseases can cause significant damage to gram crops, leading to poor yields and potentially devastating economic losses for farmers. However, there are a few steps you can take to control fungal attack in gram crops and ensure a successful harvest.
1. Crop rotation
Crop rotation is the practice of planting different crops in the same field year after year. It’s a proven technique that reduces the buildup of fungal diseases in soil. For gram crops, it’s advisable to alternate with non-leguminous crops such as maize, rice, or millet. This interrupts the life cycle of fungal pathogens, making it harder for them to spread and damage crops.
2. Seed Treatment
Seed treatment is an important factor to prevent fungal infection in gram crops. Farmers can use fungicide-treated seeds to prevent fungal infection when planting. They can also coat the seeds with Trichoderma spp. or Pseudomonas fluorescens, which are biocontrol agents that inhibit fungal growth. Seed treatment is a critical tool in preventing fungal infections.
3. Hygiene and Sanitation
Fungal infections thrive in moist conditions. Farmers can reduce the likelihood of fungal infections by practicing good sanitation and hygiene in the field. Regular cleaning of the field, removing and destroying infected plants and plant debris helps to prevent the spread of fungal diseases in the field.
4. Application of fungicides
In cases where fungal infections have already occurred, farmers can use fungicides to control the spread and reduce damage. Depending on the fungal pathogen, a combination of fungicides may be necessary to achieve the best results. It’s important to consult an agricultural expert to identify the exact fungicide required for the specific disease.
5. Irrigation technique
Limiting the exposure of gram crops to excess moisture by using irrigation techniques is another way to reduce fungal infections. Overhead irrigation can increase the humidity levels in the field, which creates an environment for fungal diseases to thrive. Farmers can opt for drip irrigation systems and schedules that reduce prolonged moisture on the crop’s foliage, preventing fungal infections from developing.
In conclusion, fungal attack is a significant threat to gram crops in India, and farmers need to be aware of the necessary techniques to prevent and control fungal infections. Crop rotation, seed treatment, hygiene and sanitation, fungicide application, and irrigation techniques can all help reduce fungal infections and protect the gram crop. By implementing these measures, farmers can ensure a healthy crop, better yields, and ultimately, economic stability and security for their farms.