As a rice crop, paddy needs special attention throughout its growth. One vital aspect of paddy cultivation is controlling neck blast, a fungal disease that can ruin an entire crop. If not treated promptly, neck blast can result in 100% losses, leaving farmers with nothing. This article provides information on neck blast control in paddy.
Neck blast is a fungal disease caused by the fungus Magnaporthe grisea. Common symptoms include white or gray lesions on the leaf sheath or necks of the rice plant, which can expand and eventually cause the plant to wilt and die. The fungus spreads rapidly through wind and water, making it difficult to control. However, there are several preventive measures farmers can take to ward off the disease.
1. Select resistant varieties: Resistant varieties of paddy can resist neck blast to a significant extent. An excellent example of resistant varieties is IR 64 and IR 64+.
2. Proper drainage: Neck blast thrives in wet conditions. Farmers should ensure proper drainage of fields to avoid standing or stagnant water. A better drainage system will help remove excess water and avoid the growth of fungi spores.
3. Avoid overcrowding: Paddy seedlings should be spaced correctly. Overcrowding provides an excellent environment for fungi spores to thrive.
4. Crop rotation: Farmers should practice crop rotation, planting a different crop after paddy to break the life cycle of fungi.
5. Sanitation: Farmers should keep their farm clean. Clean up rice straw, stubble, and other plant material from the field. When left unattended, these materials form a breeding ground for fungi.
6. Fungicides: Fungicides are a critical weapon in controlling neck blast diseases. Farmers should use recommended fungicides and apply them at the right time to avoid spore transmissions.
In conclusion, controlling neck blast in paddy requires a combination of proper measures. Planting resistant varieties with good management practices such as proper drainage, sanitation, crop rotation, and use of recommended fungicides are beneficial in controlling this fungal disease.