Sure, here is an article about Wilt attack on pigeon pea crop.
Wilt Attack on Pigeon Pea Crop
Pigeon pea, also known as red gram, is an important crop that is widely grown in tropical and subtropical regions. It is a valuable source of protein for human consumption and animal feed, and is also used as green manure. However, recent years have witnessed an increase in the incidence of Wilt disease in pigeon pea, which has resulted in significant yield losses and severe economic consequences for farmers.
Wilt disease is caused by a soil-borne fungus called Fusarium udum. The fungus attacks the roots and stem of the plant, causing wilting, yellowing, and ultimately death of the plant. The disease is most severe during the flowering and pod development stages of the crop, which leads to a decline in yield and quality of the produce.
Wilt disease is favored by warm and humid conditions, poor drainage, and low soil fertility. It can also be spread by contaminated seeds, soil, and farm equipment. Once the fungus gets established in the soil, it can survive for many years, making it difficult to control.
There are several measures that farmers can take to prevent and manage Wilt disease. One of the most effective methods is crop rotation, where pigeon pea is grown in alternate years with non-host crops such as maize, sorghum, or cowpea. This helps to reduce the build-up of the fungus in the soil and also improves soil fertility.
Another method is to use resistant varieties of pigeon pea that have been developed through breeding programs. These varieties have been tested and found to have a high degree of resistance to Wilt disease. However, these varieties may have other limitations such as low yield potential or poor adaptability to local conditions.
Farmers can also adopt good agronomic practices such as balanced fertilization, timely planting, and proper irrigation. This helps to maintain the vigor and health of the crop, making it less susceptible to diseases such as Wilt.
In conclusion, Wilt disease is a serious threat to the pigeon pea crop, which is an important source of income and food security for many farmers. It is important for farmers to implement appropriate preventive and management measures to minimize the impact of the disease and improve the yield and quality of the produce.