Sure, I can provide information regarding control of false smut in paddy. False smut is a fungal disease that affects rice crops and is caused by the pathogen Ustilaginoidea virens. It causes the development of greenish or yellowish spore balls instead of grains, leading to yield losses. Here are some control measures that can be implemented to control this disease:
1. Seed treatment: Treating the seeds with a fungicide before planting can help prevent the disease from spreading. Products like thiram and carbendazim are commonly used for this purpose.
2. Crop rotation: Avoid planting rice in the same field for multiple years in a row. Rotate with other crops like legumes or vegetables to break the disease cycle.
3. Clean cultivation: Remove and dispose of infected plant parts and debris from the field before planting the next crop.
4. Water management: Maintain proper drainage in the field and avoid waterlogging as it promotes the growth of the fungus.
5. Fertilizer management: Excessive use of nitrogen fertilizers can increase the incidence of false smut. Maintain balanced nutrient levels and avoid over-fertilization.
6. Biological control: Use of biocontrol agents like Trichoderma spp. and Bacillus subtilis can provide effective control of the disease.
7. Chemical control: In case of severe infection, a fungicide like azoxystrobin, tebuconazole, or propiconazole can be applied. However, this should be done as a last resort and only under the advice of an expert.
In conclusion, false smut can be effectively controlled with proper management practices. A combination of cultural, biological, and chemical control measures can help prevent the disease from causing yield losses and reducing the quality of paddy crops. Farmers should adopt a sustainable and integrated approach for managing false smut to ensure consistent crop yields and quality.