Fungal diseases are one of the major problems that affect mustard crops. Fungi are microscopic organisms that can live in the soil, on crop debris, or on plant surfaces. They can cause plant diseases that reduce the yield and quality of the mustard crop. In this article, we will discuss some of the common fungal diseases in mustard crops and ways to manage them.
1. White rust: White rust is caused by the fungus Albugo candida. Infected plants have yellow-green spots on the leaves that turn white later. The spots are surrounded by a yellow halo. The fungus can also infect stems and flowers. The infected plants become stunted and yield is reduced. To manage white rust, use disease-free seeds, avoid overcrowding of plants, and use fungicides.
2. Alternaria blight: Alternaria blight is caused by the fungus Alternaria brassicae. The disease affects all parts of the mustard plant, including the leaves, stems, pods, and seeds. Infected plants have brown to black spots on the leaves, which turn yellow and dry up. The fungus can also cause premature pod ripening and seed decay. To manage alternaria blight, use disease-free seeds, avoid wet conditions, and use fungicides.
3. Sclerotinia rot: Sclerotinia rot is caused by the fungus Sclerotinia sclerotiorum. The disease affects the stem, petiole, and pod of the mustard plant. Infected plants have wilting symptoms and a white cotton-like growth on the stem, which later turns brown. The fungus can also cause severe yield loss. To manage sclerotinia rot, use disease-free seed, avoid wet conditions, and use fungicides.
4. Fusarium wilt: Fusarium wilt is caused by the fungus Fusarium oxysporum. The disease affects the stem and roots of the mustard plant. Infected plants have a yellowing of the leaves, stunting and wilting, and eventually death. To manage fusarium wilt, use disease-free seed, soil solarization, and use resistant varieties.
5. Downy mildew: Downy mildew is caused by the fungus Peronospora brassicae. Infected plants have yellowing leaves, along with gray to purple spots on the leaf undersides. The fungus can also cause deformed pods and reduced seed production. To manage downy mildew, use disease-free seed, avoid wet conditions, and use fungicides.
In conclusion, fungal diseases can significantly reduce the yield and quality of the mustard crop. The best way to manage fungal diseases is to use disease-free seed, avoid wet conditions, use fungicides, and use resistant varieties. By following these practices, farmers can reduce the losses caused by fungal diseases and achieve higher yields.