Button Mushrooms: Do this management to protect button mushrooms from diseases and pests

Button Mushrooms: In North India, growing button mushrooms is becoming a significant source of revenue for farmers. However, a variety of illnesses and issues may arise during cultivation, which has an impact on output. Identification, prompt management, and preventative actions are essential for managing illnesses and pests.

1. Blotch disease

Pseudomonas Tolaasii is the bacterium that causes this illness. This lowers the mushroom’s market value by forming brown or black patches on the top.

Blotch disease symptoms include dark patches developing on button mushroom caps. the mushroom’s surface becoming sticky.

Controlling Blotch Sickness: During harvest, control moisture appropriately. Steer clear of excessive humidity and temperatures. Eliminate contaminated mushrooms right away. Apply hydrogen peroxide or a 0.1% bleaching powder solution.

2. Dry Bubble

Verticillium fungicola is the fungus that causes this illness. It may seriously harm the crop.

The irregular form of button mushrooms is one of the symptoms of dry bubble sickness. Their development is impeded when the cap begins to explode.

Dry Bubble Management: Maintain hygiene. Eliminate contaminated compost and unhealthy mushrooms right away. Apply fungicides such as carbendazim or thiabendazole.

3. Wet Bubble

The crop is badly impacted by this disease, which is brought on by Mycogone perniciosa.

Wet Bubble Symptoms: Button mushrooms develop a white or cream-colored fungus. The mushrooms begin to decay.

Wet Bubble Management: Eliminate the diseased compost. Throughout the crop, pay attention to ventilation and moisture. Apply Mancozeb or Captan.

4. Green Mold

Several kinds of Trichoderma are the cause of this illness.

Symptoms of Green Mold: The compost or casing develops a green coating. Button mushroom growth halts.

Management of Green Mold: Completely pasteurize the compost. As soon as the infection begins, remove the contaminated compost. Apply 0.1 percent formalin.

5. Cobweb

Cladobotryum dendroides is the causative agent of this illness.

Symptoms of cobwebs: A fungus that resembles a spider web grows around the mushrooms. Button mushroom growth slows down.

Control the temperature and humidity during harvest to prevent cobwebs. The afflicted region should be treated with 2% bleaching powder. Apply Captan or Benlate.

6. Insect issues

Insects such as mites directly harm mushrooms and aid in the disease’s spread.

Insecticides may be added to the compost to help manage mites and other insect issues. routine observation and cleanliness. Apply insecticides sparingly and sensibly.

7. Measures of General Management

• Compost Management: Make sure compost is properly pasteurized.
• Use pasteurized soil to manage casein pests.
• Environmental Management: Keep the ventilation, humidity, and temperature under control.
• Hygiene: Keep the workspace, crop area, and equipment clean.
• Constant observation: Recognize illness signs and administer treatment promptly.
• Use of Chemicals: Apply chemicals in the right amounts and at the right times.