Know how to save the pulse crop from the problem of root rot and yellowing…
Pulse Crop Cultivation: Nutrient-dense and crucial to agriculture are peas and other legume crops. However, issues like plant yellowing and root rot disease affect these crops. These issues are particularly prevalent in damp, cold soils or in areas that are flooded. They have an impact on crop quality in addition to causing a significant loss in output. This page goes into great depth on the signs, causes, and practical solutions for various issues.
Signs of Pea Root Rot and Yellowing
- Root rot: The roots begin to decay and become black or brown.
- Root system shrinkage: The roots’ nodes becoming smaller, which makes it more difficult for nutrients to be absorbed.
- Plant yellowing: The plants’ lowest leaves first become yellow and then eventually wither away.
- Plant deterioration: Plants seem feeble and cease to develop.
- Plants begin to wilt when there is a serious illness, which might ruin the whole harvest.
Primary causes of pea root rot and yellowing
- Fungal pathogens include fungi that grow in soil, such as Pythium, Rhizoctonia, and Fusarium.
- Ralstonia and other bacteria are bacterial pathogens.
- Poor soil health: The illness is encouraged by heavy soils, waterlogging, and excessive wetness.
- The primary cause of root rot is excessive waterlogging and irrigation.
Handling issues with yellowing and root rot
To handle the issue, a comprehensive and scientific strategy is required. A suitable combination of biological, chemical, and cultural measures is included.
Observe crop rotation
Peas and other legume crops shouldn’t be planted in the same land again. After legume crops, plant non-legume crops like maize or wheat. This disrupts the viruses’ life cycle.
Boost the health of the soil
Attend to the drainage of the soil. Use organic manure (compost, vermicompost) to improve soil fertility. Do soil testing to ensure that the necessary nutrients are present.
Employ resistant cultivars
Choose seeds and cultivars that are resistant to disease. Speak with regional agricultural specialists to learn about cultivars that are appropriate for your area.
Treatment of seeds
Before planting, apply fungicides to the seeds. Use two to three grams of carbendazim or thiram for every kilogram of seed. As a biological alternative, use Trichoderma solution.
Management of irrigation
Don’t overirrigate and steer clear of waterlogging. Plan the irrigation based on the needs of the crop.
Control by biology
Make use of biological agents such as Paecilomyces lilacinus and Trichoderma harzianum. Apply biological control agents to the soil on a regular basis.
Nutrient management that is balanced
Make use of the proper amounts of potash, phosphorus, and nitrogen. Make up for the lack of certain micronutrients, such as boron and zinc.
Observe field hygiene
Eliminate and dispose of agricultural waste and diseased plants. After usage, give agricultural equipment a thorough cleaning.
Control of chemicals
If necessary, use metalaxyl or carbendazim (2 g per liter of water). Consider the consequences on the environment while limiting the use of chemicals.
Frequent observation
Regularly check on the crop. Early symptom detection and treatment are key.