Controlling Pokkah Boeng in Sugarcane Crop
Pokkah Boeng, also known as sugarcane white leaf, is a disease that affects sugarcane crop production. This disease is caused by the Sugarcane White Leaf Phytoplasma (SCWL), which is a type of bacteria that affects the vascular system of the sugarcane plant. The symptoms of this disease include white streaks on the leaves, reduced growth, lower yields, and stunted internodes.
To control Pokkah Boeng in sugarcane crop, several measures can be taken. Here are some of the methods that can be applied to minimize the effects of this disease.
1. Crop management practices
The first step in controlling Pokkah Boeng is to implement proper crop management practices. This includes planting of healthy seed material, adequate irrigation and nutrient management, and timely pruning of diseased plants.
2. Use of disease-resistant varieties
Planting of disease-resistant varieties is an effective method to control the spread of Pokkah Boeng. Several sugarcane cultivars like Co 86032, Co 95016, Co 99004, and Co 05011 are known to be resistant to this disease.
3. Cultural management practices
Cultural management practices involve the use of different methods to control the spread of the disease. This includes the removal of weeds and other alternate host plants, application of organic mulch, and spraying of neem-based formulations.
4. Biological control
Biological control is an environmentally friendly method of controlling Pokkah Boeng. This involves the use of beneficial microorganisms like Trichoderma harzianum and Pseudomonas fluorescens that compete with the SCWL bacteria and limit its population growth.
5. Chemical control
Chemical control involves the use of pesticides to control the spread of the disease. However, this method is not advisable as it can lead to the development of resistance in the bacteria, and also lead to the accumulation of toxic residues in the soil.
In conclusion, controlling Pokkah Boeng in sugarcane crop requires a holistic approach that involves the use of crop management practices, cultural management practices, disease-resistant varieties, biological control, and minimal use of chemical pesticides. By adopting these measures, sugarcane farmers can minimize the effects of this disease and achieve healthy crop yields.