Seed treatment is one of the crucial steps for achieving a high yield in basmati rice. Seed treatment not only helps prevent pest attacks but also keeps the crops healthy and disease-free. One of the most damaging diseases that affect basmati rice is foot rot. In this article, we will discuss the seed treatment of basmati rice to avoid foot rot.
What is Foot Rot?
Foot rot is a fungal disease that primarily affects the root system of the plant. It is caused by the fungus Fusarium moniliforme or F. oxysporum. This disease is prevalent in areas with high humidity and moist soil. Foot rot affects the root system of the plant, leading to stunted growth, yellowing of leaves, and ultimately, death of the plant.
Seed Treatment of Basmati Rice to Avoid Foot Rot:
1. Choosing the Right Seed Variety: Seed selection is the first step to preventing any diseases in crops. Always choose healthy and disease-free seeds for planting. Opt for certified seeds that have undergone testing to ensure that they are free from any diseases.
2. Fungicide Treatment: Treating the seeds with fungicides is an efficient way to protect the plants from foot rot. Fungicides like carbendazim, thiophanate-methyl, and tricyclazole are effective against the fungus causing foot rot. Fungicide treatment not only kills the fungus but also protects the plant from future attacks.
3. Biocontrol Agents: Biocontrol agents like Trichoderma spp., Pseudomonas fluorescens, and Bacillus spp. can also be used to control the fungus causing foot rot. These biocontrol agents are eco-friendly and do not harm the environment as well as the crops.
4. Crop Rotation: Crop rotation is another technique employed to avoid foot rot. Planting different crops in a specific field can help break the disease cycle and reduce the chances of infection.
5. Soil Drenching: Soil drenching with fungicides is also recommended to prevent foot rot. The fungicide penetrates the soil and destroys the fungus present in the soil.
Conclusion:
Foot rot is a serious disease that can cause significant losses to basmati rice crops. Seed treatment is a crucial step to avoid foot rot and to keep the crops healthy. It is recommended to consult a professional agronomist before selecting the seed treatment method appropriate for your crops.