Stem rot is a fungal disease that commonly affects berseem, a forage crop that belongs to the legume family. It is caused by the fungus Sclerotinia trifoliorum and can result in significant yield losses. The disease is most prevalent in areas with high humidity and rainfall. In this article, we will discuss the methods used to control stem rot in berseem.
1. Crop rotation
Crop rotation is an effective and environmentally friendly way to control stem rot. The objective of crop rotation is to alternate berseem with other crops such as maize, wheat, or barley. This reduces the inoculum of the pathogen, which means there are fewer disease-causing organisms in the soil. Berseem should not be grown in the same field for more than two years in a row.
2. Fungicides
Fungicides are widely used to control stem rot in berseem. The most effective fungicides for stem rot control include carbendazim, tebuconazole, azoxystrobin, and boscalid. Fungicides should be applied preventively during the early stages of the crop to protect the stem from infection.
3. Proper irrigation
Excessive moisture is a major factor that contributes to the spread of stem rot in berseem. Therefore, proper irrigation practices should be followed to reduce plant stress and minimize the risk of infection. Irrigate the crop when necessary but avoid overwatering as this can lead to soil saturation and promote the growth of the fungus.
4. Timely harvesting
Timely harvest is an essential aspect of stem rot management. Delaying harvesting can cause the crop to become over-mature, which increases the risk of stem rot infection. Harvesting should be done when the crop is at the right stage of maturity, which is usually when the plants are around 25-30 cm tall.
5. Good field hygiene
Good field hygiene is an important practice that helps to minimize the spread of stem rot in berseem. Remove plant debris from the field after harvesting to prevent the buildup of the fungus. Also, avoid working in the field when the plants are wet, as this can spread the disease-causing organisms.
In conclusion, stem rot can cause significant losses in berseem production if left unmanaged. Control measures such as crop rotation, fungicides, proper irrigation, timely harvesting, and good field hygiene can reduce the risk of infection. Farmers should follow these practices to minimize the impact of the disease on their crops and achieve a higher yield.