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The cultivation of paddy crops is a cornerstone of Indian agriculture, requiring significant investments of time, effort, and resources from farmers. Their diligent work ensures that each paddy field produces a bountiful harvest, underscoring the importance of their contributions. Despite dedicated endeavours, stealth diseases pose a threat to the success of these efforts. This guide addresses prevalent paddy diseases, shedding light on insights and presenting solutions, focusing on the expertise offered by Dhanuka Agritech Limited in the agri-input sector.
Paddy crops can be diseased due to several pathogens including fungi, bacteria, and viruses. These cause crop losses through reduced yields and poorer grain quality. The proper management of diseases is necessary for paddy cultivation to be sustainable for future food security and the constant expansion that will be needed. Identification of disease symptoms is the first step toward the prevention of various diseases.
Blast disease by Magnaporthe oryzae shows an explosive blast-like lesion on leaves, stem and grains. It spreads fast and can take a form causing huge losses to growers if not managed timely. Dhanuka suggests use of resistant varieties of rice and timely spraying with effective fungicides.
Sheath-blight due to Rhizoctonia solani starts as water-soaked lesions on leaf-sheaths to become white and fluffy. It reduces stability and causes much loss. Proper drainage and fungicide application gives protection.
Brown spot caused by Bipolaris oryzae is marked by small dark brown spots on leaves. Although it affects foliage mainly, in severe cases this can affect yields. High humidity and high density of planting enhance this disease. Combatting may be done through the system of rotation of crops and fungicide sprays. It affects a broad spectrum of plants, including tomatoes and bananas.
Bacterial leaf blight of rice due to Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae shows rapidly spreading, water-soaked lesions. Integrated management is necessary for effective control of this disease. According to Dhanuka, use of varieties resistant to the disease with application of copper-based bacterial will be effective against the bacterial disease.
Stem rot caused by Sclerotium oryzae infects plant stems at the below soil or at the level of the soil. It causes lodging which destructs crop stability. The pathogen thrives well in waterlogged conditions. Proper drainage and avoiding overflow irrigation are preventive measures.
Nature of paddy cultivation is determined by climate, availability of soil conditions, and water. Along with disciplined planning and execution, the disease elements are minimised and sturdy harvests are assured. Information about time suitable for cultivation and harvesting helps maximise yields for the farmer while attenuating disease impact.
With the onset of Southwest monsoon rains, Kharif season is most suitable for paddy crop cultivation. Planting is done in June-July when good monsoons commence. Early planting ensures weed control and to harvest before the commencement of winter cold. Winter usually starts in November, hence farmers prefer to complete their irrigation operations by mid-October. This involves having proper land preparation and straight levelling as well as proper bunding of water systems which aids in development of proper health for the paddy development. The best possible water management helps with production of disease resistance varieties suitable to the geographical location that help to improve the resilience to diseases.
Adopting the disease risk best practices during the crop growth phase:
- Non-host crops to be used in the crop rotation, will make the pathogen population drop
- Over saturation prevention and efficient water management to prevent diseases like stem rot
- Early weeding to remove weeds will reduce competition with the crops which further improves their health status
- Balanced fertilising helps in nutrient uptake and also develops the immunity system of the plant against diseases
Rice undergoes a biological cycle spanning from seedling to harvest, with durations varying based on the variety. Very early types can complete this cycle in as little as 95 days, while very late varieties may take close to 250 days. Medium-maturing varieties typically reach harvest readiness between 120 to 150 days after sowing. Harvesting should commence when approximately 80–85% of the grains have ripened or attained a golden yellow hue. This timing ensures optimal yield in both quantity and quality while minimizing risks associated with pests and diseases.
Dhanuka Agritech brings to the market integrated research-based solutions to common paddy diseases that consist not only of protection products such as disease-resistant seeds, fungicides and bactericides but are also inclusive of local condition-specific and farmer-specific paddy health needs programs designed toward effective long-term care.
Dhanuka's products focus on the overall health of crops through a gamut of many fertilisers, growth promoters and soil conditioners that ensure better nutrient uptake, stronger plants and enhanced soil fertility. Healthier crops help in building higher plant immunity towards debilities and thus foster paddy cultivation that is resilient as well as productive. Dhanuka's commitment for sustainable agriculture endorses the larger national goal of food security.
In the realm of paddy cultivation, understanding and mitigating common diseases are paramount for farmers. Dhanuka Agritech Limited emerges as a steadfast partner, offering not just products but solutions backed by research, innovation, and a profound understanding of the challenges faced by farmers.
By empowering farmers with knowledge and effective tools to combat diseases, Dhanuka Agritech Limited plays a pivotal role in ensuring a golden harvest of healthy, high-quality grains. As the agricultural landscape continues to evolve, the partnership between farmers and Dhanuka Agritech Limited stands as a testament to the shared commitment to the prosperity of Indian agriculture.
Visit us at www.dhanuka.com to explore more about paddy crops and issues related to them and discover the solution to see a good result.
