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Due to seasonal changes, pests and diseases affecting the standing wheat crop can cause a lot of trouble. Farmers should deal with it by taking the right steps at an appropriate time otherwise the entire crop may go to waste.

Presently wheat crop is grown in the fields. Continuous changes are being seen in the weather. Sometimes it rains and sometimes cold wave continues to wreak havoc, hence due to changes in weather, pests and diseases affecting the standing wheat crop can cause a lot of problems. Farmer brothers should deal with it by taking the right steps on time otherwise the entire crop may go to waste. There is not just one type of disease in wheat but different types of diseases. Farmers are advised to maintain and monitor their crops regularly.

Mahu or Lahi

Mahu or Lahi insects are black, green, and brown with wings and wingless. Its infants and adults suck the juice from leaves, flowers, and earrings. Due to this, there is huge damage to the crop and the crop gets ruined. Let us tell you about the advice given by scientists to save the crop from the attack of this insect.

Also read: Know how to cultivate yellow mustard?

Sow the crop on time.

Do not use insecticides if the number of ladybird wasps is sufficient.

Apply a yellow noose or sticky substance on a yellow tin sheet and make it stand in the field with the support of wood. Flying Lahi will stick to it.

Spray 50 grams of Thiomethoxam 25 percent WG per hectare or Quinalphos 25 percent EC in 2 ml per liter of water.

Harda disease

According to scientists, the possibility of attack and spread of this disease increases due to drop in atmospheric temperature after rain in this season. Brown and yellow spots are found on the leaves and stems of wheat plants. Preventive measures should be taken as soon as the environment becomes favorable for this disease.

Select disease-resistant varieties at the time of sowing.

Before sowing, seed treatment should be done with 2 grams of Carbendazim 50 percent soluble powder or 5 grams of organic fungicide per kilogram of seeds.

Also read: Mustard crop diseases and their prevention measures

As soon as a suitable environment for the fungus is created in the standing crop, spray 2 kg of Mancozeb 75 percent soluble powder, 500 ml of Propiconazole 25 percent EC per hectare, or 1 ml of Tebuconazole EC per liter of water.

Alternaria Blight

Due to Alternaria blight disease, spots are formed on the leaves, which later turn yellow and scorch the edges. To control this disease, spray 2 kg of Macozeb 75 percent soluble powder or 2 kg of Geneve 75 percent soluble powder per hectare.

Kidney disease

In Kalika disease, the black dust of fungus fills the ears in place of the grains. Even a healthy ear gets infected due to fungal spores falling in the air. This is a seed-borne disease. Farmer brothers should keep these things in mind to prevent this disease.

Also read: Farmers producing wheat must be aware of these diseases.

Sow disease-free seeds.

-Sow the seeds after treating them with Carbendizing 50 soluble powder at the rate of 2 grams per kilogram.

-Carefully cover the infested ear along with the grain with a plastic bag and destroy it after cutting.

-Do not use diseased farm produce as seeds.

The Bihar government has set up a 24-hour call center for the convenience of farmers. Here farmers can get solutions to their problems by contacting toll-free number 15545 or 18003456268.

Farmers expect a decent harvest from groundnut planting when they can eliminate white braid disease in groundnut crops. Whiteflies are omnivorous insects that live on the soil.These are also referred to as root braids. Let us inform you that white braided insects feed on organic substances found in soil and plant roots. Aside from groundnuts, white braided potatoes, walnuts, tobacco, and other oilseeds, pulses, and vegetable crops obtain their sustenance by attacking the roots of guava, sugarcane, coconut, and betel nuts. Whiteflies can cause a 20-80% loss in the groundnut crop.

When does the incidence of whiteflies peak?

Normally, white threads are visible all year. However, their activity becomes more obvious during the wet season. Adult males congregate in huge numbers for mating during the first monsoon rains in mid-May or June. Females found in and near the fields return to the earth in the early morning. Also, they begin to lay eggs. They then return to the soil to complete their life cycle. The earth remains inert at a depth of roughly one metre until the monsoon rains arrive.

Also  read: Prevent the pests and illnesses that most impact the groundnut crop in this manner.

Symptoms of white-braided infection in groundnut field

Because this insect lives underground, the damage it does is often overlooked. Infected plants seem yellow and wilted. In such a case, the plant ultimately dries out and may be readily removed from the ground. Plants perish with strong infestations. Also, dead plants appear in spots throughout the fields. Whiteflies also consume plant roots, destroying them. Braids cause a significant loss in groundnut productivity. Adult moths are the first to create holes in leaves at night. They then consume the whole leaf with the exception of the middle leaf's central vein.

White braided pest control in a groundnut crop.

Let us inform you that if a whitefly infestation occurs in any location, it cannot be managed by a single farmer. To do this, the farmer brothers as a society must take preventive actions. White hair management is only attainable through a community-based approach.

Also  read: Mungfali Ki Kheti: Detailed information on peanut/groundnut cultivation.

White Braided Adult Management

After the first rain, use one light trap per acre.

Cut down trees near fields in flood-prone locations. Also, trim and remove the shrubs around the field.

Spray pesticides such as Imidacloprid 17.8 SL @ 1.5 ml/lit or Monocrotophos 36 SL @ 1.6 ml/litre on trees and shrubs at sunset.

Gather fallen strands near the trees and dispose of them.

White Braided Pest Management

If water is available, sow early.

Farmer brothers should utilise better-decomposed organic manure.

Farmer brothers should undertake thorough ploughing in the summer to expose the pupae to direct sunlight.

Pay extra attention to preserving tiny birds, which feed on these whitetails.

Before planting, incorporate carbofuran 3 cg @ 33.0 kg/hectare or phorate 10 cg @ 25.0 kg/hectare into the soil.

Spraying pesticides such as Thiamethoxam 25 WS @ 1.9 litres/ha or Fipronil 5 FS @ 2.0 litres/ha along the sowing lines in whitefly-infested fields. Use.

Before planting, treat seeds with Chlorpyrifos 20 EC at 6.5-12.0 ml/kg or Imidacloprid 17.8 SL at 2.0 ml/kg.

When adult whiteflies are detected in the crops, spray Chlorpyrifos 20 EC @ 4.0 litres/hectare or Quinalphos 25 EC @ 3.2% litres/hectare in the roots of the crops.

Groundnut variety D.H. 330 can be cultivated even in areas with low water availability. Groundnut is grown in states like Madhya Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, and Karnataka. Due to drought in these states, farmers face a lot of challenges in peanut production. Due to less rainfall here, the yield of groundnut is less. Besides, the income of the farmer brothers is also less. In such a situation, today we have the peanut variety D.H. We are going to give information about 330, which requires less water for its cultivation.

When is groundnut sown?

For your information, let us tell you that peanuts are sown in July. It starts germinating 30 to 40 days after sowing. After flowering, pods start appearing in it. If there is a possibility of low rainfall and drought in your area, its productivity will not decline. For this, 180 to 200 mm of rainfall is sufficient.

Soil preparation for groundnut cultivation

To prepare the soil, irrigate it once after plowing the field. After sowing, when the plants start producing pods, cover the soil around the roots of the plants. Due to this, pods are produced well. Soil preparation is very important for better crop productivity.

 Also read: Prevent the pests and diseases that most affect the groundnut crop in this way

How to get good production of peanuts?

Farmers can spray organic fertilizers at the time of sowing the crop to increase the production of groundnut. Apart from this, mix Indole Acetic in 100 liters of water and keep spraying it on the crop from time to time.

Also read: Prevention of white braided pest is very important for good yield of groundnut.

Protection of groundnut crops from diseases

There is a high possibility of collar rot disease, tick disease, and termite attack in groundnut crops. For this, fungicides like Carbendazim, Mancozeb, and a 2.5 kg quantity of Manganese Carbamate should be mixed in 1000 liters of water and sprayed about 4 to 5 times at intervals of 15 days. Farmer brothers were given this variety of groundnut by D.H. For best production from the sowing of 330 and information related to any disease, take advice from agricultural experts and scientists.

For your kind information, due to unexpected fall in rain, cloud and temperature and due to fog, not only potato but also tomato, ginger and onion crops are also prone to loss. With the increase in production, sensitivity towards diseases also increases. At present, potato crops are sensitive towards late blight. Its outbreak starts from the upper leaves. In initial stages, edges of leaves start blackening. Then infection spreads very fast to complete leaves and stems to fibrous roots. This is more dangerous than early blight. If not treated in initial stages, the whole crop can die within 2-3 days.

Prevent blight disease with these steps 

Farmers should spread mancozeb with carbendazim. Concentration should be kept 2.5-3 grams per litre of water. If necessary, spray again a second time after two weeks of first preventive spray.

How to control centipede 

In this weather, mustard crops along with other vegetables are prone to infection due to centipede and its associated viral disease. With the outbreak, leaves get curled around and thicken and stiffen. Plant growth stops and increment stops and the production gets affected. For prevention spread metasystox 1.5 ml mixed in per litre of water. Keep the farm humid to prevent frost. You can also spray mancozeb. 

Other crops of vegetables will also get affected.

If the weather becomes out of order, onion, garlic growth also stops. Most of the onions are sown or are in a nursery. To sow onion, use 10 kilograms of sulphur with other fertilisers in basel dressing. Bentonite sulphur is an amazing product from IFFCO. If the nursery face rotting, spray mancozeb, carbendazim and sulphur. According to experts, spraying 18:18:18 ( soluble fertiliser) can be useful in increasing productivity. Due to low temperature, roots of garlic can shorten. Spray 13:0:45 for this. Add 10 grams of manure in one litre of water. Add 6 mg of sticker for better results. Fruits and flowers start falling in vegetables in this weather. To prevent that, spray micronutrients.

Agricultural scientists and scientific centres play a critical role in preparing pupils for farming. In this regard, ICAR has issued advice to farmers planting potatoes. Farmers have received methods and instructions to protect their crops over the winter.

There is vital news for potato producers. If you grow potatoes, be sure you read this news. Because this info might rescue your crop from a significant loss. Actually, fog poses a significant issue for farmers throughout the winter months. Especially when it is quite chilly. For this reason, the Central Potato Research Institute Modipuram Meerut (ICAR) has issued advice to potato producers.

The top five improved wheat varieties developed by Indian agricultural scientists are Shriram 303 wheat variety, GW 322 variety, Pusa Tejas 8759 variety, Shri Ram Super 111 wheat, and HI 8498 variety capable of giving production up to 81 quintals per hectare. Also, all these varieties become ripe in 100 to 120 days. To get more profit from wheat cultivation, farmers should choose improved varieties of wheat so that farmers can harvest maximum produce in less time and sell it in the market.

 Besides, agricultural scientists also prepare new varieties of crops as per time. In this series, today we have brought information about the top five improved varieties of wheat developed by Indian agricultural scientists for the farmers of the country, which ripens in 100 to 120 days. Also, these varieties give a yield of 81 quintals per hectare. They are the Shriram 303 wheat variety, GW 322 variety, Pusa Tejas 8759 variety, Shriram Super 111 wheat, and HI 8498 variety.

The top five improved varieties of wheat are as follows

HI 8498 Variety

HI 8498 variety of wheat has been developed by the scientists of Jabalpur Agricultural University. With this, farmers can achieve production up to 77 quintals per hectare. Also, this variety becomes fully ripened in 125-130 days.

Also read: Resistance varieties of wheat developed by agricultural scientists got an award.

Shriram 303 Variety of wheat

This variety of wheat gets ripe in the field in a time interval of 156 days. Its average yield is about 81.2 quintals per hectare to the farmers. This Shriram 303 wheat variety is a yellow, brown, and black rust-resistant variety.

GW 332 Variety

This variety of wheat ripens only under 3-4 irrigations. Indian farmers can get a yield of about 60-65 quintals from GW 322 varieties of wheat. The entire crop of this variety gets fully ripe in about 115-125 days.

Also read: Heatwave will not be able to wreak havoc on crops, solution found through a new variety of wheat. 

Pusa Tejas 8759 Varitey

Pusa Tejas' variety of wheat ripens in a time interval of 110 to 115 days. Let us tell you that this variety of wheat has been developed at the Agricultural University of Jabalpur. With this, farmers can get a yield of about 70 quintals per hectare.

Shri Ram Super 111 Wheat

This improved variety of wheat is extremely beneficial for the farmers because this variety can be easily produced even on barren land. Farmers can get a yield of about 80 quintals per hectare from Shriram Super 111 wheat. Also, with this variety, farmers can get a yield of up to 30 quintals/hectare on barren land. This variety of wheat ripens within 105 days.

After rice, wheat is one of the most important crops grown in India. Wheat is sown in the Rabi season. But for the production of wheat farmers have to go through a lot of difficulties. Mainly farmers have to face losses due to different plant diseases in the wheat crop. There are different types of diseases that wheat crop can catch but the disease that harms the most are rust related diseases. Rust diseases are of three types mainly brown rust,  black rust and yellow rest.

Leaf rust/ Brown rust

Within India, bananas are grown in Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Bihar and Uttar Pradesh. The areas affected by Panama Wilt disease are Katihar and Purnia districts of Bihar, Faizabad, Barabanki, Maharajganj of Uttar Pradesh, Surat of Gujarat and Burhanpur district of Madhya Pradesh.

Banana is cultivated on a large scale in India. Also, the country is one of the largest banana producers in the world. India is known for the cultivation of various banana varieties, including the popular Cavendish banana as well as other regional varieties such as Robusta, Grand Neine, and Poovan. Each variety has its distinct characteristics. In such a situation, if something happens to the banana crop, it directly impacts the income of the farmers. Additionally, Panama Wilt disease has emerged as a new problem for banana farmers across the country. This disease is ruining their crops worth lakhs. 

Panama Wilt Disease

It is a fungal disease. Due to this infection, the banana crop can be completely ruined. Panama wilt is caused by a fungus called Fusarium wilt TR-2, which stunts the growth of banana plants. If we look at the symptoms of this disease, the leaves of the banana plant turn brown and fall. Additionally, the stem also starts rotting. It is considered a very fatal disease, which destroys the entire banana crop. This is a disease caused by fungus, which in the last few years has been seen in many countries of the world including Africa, Taiwan, America, Australia besides India. This disease has destroyed the banana crops of the farmers there. Presently this disease has become a cause of trouble for the farmers of India for some years. 

Also read: Farmer left his job in Switzerland and started banana farming, today the turnover is Rs 100 crore

How to prevent Panama Wilt disease

Regarding the prevention of Panama Wilt disease, this disease can be treated through the collective efforts of scientists and farmers. Scientists say that no effective medicine has been found yet for Panama Wilt disease. However, scientists at CISH have created a drug called ISAR-Fusicant. Farmers of Bihar and other states have benefited greatly from the use of this medicine. CISH has been trying to save farmers' banana crops for the last three years. For this reason, efforts are being made to deliver this medicine to farmers across India.

Panama Wilt disease has affected these states

In our country India, banana is produced in Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, and Madhya Pradesh. The districts affected by Panama Wilt disease are Katihar and Purnia of Bihar, Faizabad, Barabanki, Maharajganj of Uttar Pradesh, Surat of Gujarat and Burhanpur of Madhya Pradesh. In such a situation, the farmers here need to take special care of their banana crop to protect it from this disease.

Potash, also known as potassium (K), is one of the necessary macronutrients required for healthy growth of all plants, including bananas. Potassium plays an important role in various physiological processes within plants, such as photosynthesis, enzyme activation, osmoregulation and nutrient. Lack of potash in banana plants has a harmful effect on their growth, fruit growth and overall productivity. Let's know about the major symptoms of lack of potash in banana plants and various strategies to manage it ....

Symptoms of lack of potash in banana plants

Potassium deficiency in banana plants is manifested through many types of symptoms that affect different parts of the plant. It is important to understand these symptoms for timely diagnosis and effective management. Some common symptoms of lack of potash in banana plants are as follows:

ALSO READ: How to manage the growing thrips in banana cultivation in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh due to monsoon active in September?

Symptoms of lack of potash on leaf

Brown of the edges of the leaf: The edges of the old leaves become brown and dry, this condition is called leaf scorching. 

Turning of leaves: The leaves turn up or downwards, which distorts their form. 

Yellowing among the veins: The yellow of leaf tissue between the veins, called interveinal chlorosis, is a common symptom.

 Leaf necrosis: In severe cases, necrotic (dead) spots may appear on the leaves, reducing photosynthetic activity.

Symptoms of lack of potash on fruit

Lowering fruit size: Lack of potash reduces the size of fruits, which affects the market price of bananas. 

Uneven ripening: Fruits do not cook evenly, making it challenging for business producers.

Symptoms of lack of potash on stem and bunch

Stagnant growth: The overall growth of banana plants may stop, resulting in reduced yield.

Small flakes: Fruits become small and thin due to lack of potash.

Also read: Banana's sigatoka leaf spot disease, causes, symptoms, effects and various measures to manage

Symptoms of lack of potash at the root

The roots are less empowered due to weak cell walls and become more sensitive to diseases.

Management of lack of potash in banana plants

Management of lack of potash in banana plants includes a combination of potassium on soil and leaves as well as other agricultural functions to improve the absorption and use of potassium. Some measures are being suggested here to effectively manage the lack of potash, such as:

Soil testing

Start by testing soil to assess potassium levels in the soil. This will provide correct guidance regarding determining the severity of deficiency and using proper potassium fertiliser.

Fertiliser application

Use potassium -containing fertilisers, such as potassium sulphate (K2SO4) or potassium chloride (KCL), based on soil testing recommendations. Include potassium fertilisers in the soil during planting or during the development of bananas. Monitor soil pH, as highly acidic or alkaline soil can reduce the amount of potassium. Adjust the pH level if necessary.

Also read: Panama Wilt Disease has affected the banana crop in these areas of India.

Spraying on the leaves

In cases of severe shortage, spraying potassium on the leaves is a quick remedy. To protect the leaves from burning, dissolve potassium nitrate or potassium sulphate in water and apply it in the morning or afternoon. Apply organic wet grass around banana plants to preserve soil moisture and maintain soil temperature continuously. This improves potassium absorption by roots.

Balanced nutrition

Ensure that other essential nutrients, such as nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P), are also present in sufficient amounts to prevent the imbalance of nutrients. Bananas require 150-200 grams of nitrogen (n), 40-60 grams phosphorus (P2O5) and 200-300 grams of potash per plant on the basis of soil and variety. The use of one-fourth nitrogen (N) and one-third potash (K2O) in the time of flowering (reproductive phase) has been found to be beneficial. At the time of flowering, the use of nitrogen delays the ageing of the leaves and improves the weight of bunches and using a third potash improves finger filling. Using the total quantity of nitrogen and potassium into farming from a banana plant prepared by tissue enhancement provides maximum benefit by using the total amount of nitrogen and potassium such as the first planting, 45 days after planting, the third-90 days later, the fourth, the fourth -135 days later; 5th-180 days later. The entire amount of phosphorus fertiliser should be put at the time of last ploughing or while filling the pit.

Water management

Proper irrigation to avoid water stress, as drought conditions can increase potassium deficiency.

Also read: Learn about the characteristics and benefits of red banana

Crop circle

Change the banana crop with other plants to reduce the risk of lack of nutrients in the soil.

Disease and pest control

Immediately solve any disease or insect infection, as they can put pressure on the plant and obstruct the nutrients.

Harvesting and removing dead leaves

To promote the development of a healthy, potassium-efficient decnus, regularly damaged or sort dead leaves.

Monitoring and adjustment

Constantly monitor the plant's response to potassium treatments and adjust fertiliser experiments accordingly. Finally, it can be said that lack of potassium in banana plants has a significant negative effect on growth, fruit quality and yield. To overcome this deficiency and ensure a healthy and productive banana crop, timely diagnosis and proper management are necessary, including soil testing, fertiliser experiment and agricultural functions. By applying these strategies, banana producers customise potassium nutrition and get better overall plant health and fruit production.

Litchi (litchi chinensis) is a tropical and subtropical fruit tree known for its juicy and aromatic fruits. Diseases in litchi are less. For successful cultivation of litchi, it is necessary to manage the insects that attack it. But for the last few years, Wilt Disease has been seen in litchi which is a vascular disease caused by fusarium oxysporum/solani fungi. This pathogen mainly attacks the root system, disrupts the transport of water and nutrients and makes the tree dry, yellow, and eventually causes death.

Symptoms of Wilt disease in litchi

Although this disease can affect litchi trees of any age, this wilt disease is usually seen more in the new trees of litchi under five years of age, in which the trees would wither away in less than a week. The first symptoms appear as yellow leaves, after that the leaves fall, gradually withering and drying, causing a complete death of the plant within 4-5 days. This fusarium is caused by oxysporum/solani fungus. This requires more research. There is still very few literature available on this disease. Wilt symptoms in litchi are similar to Wilt disease in common. Litchi's Wilt Disease (Wither) is caused by the soft -worn fungus Fusarium oxysporum/solani, which is a terrible threat to litchi orchards worldwide. To maintain litchi cultivation, it is very important to understand the disease, its life cycle and to know management strategies.

Identification and life cycle of fusarium oxysporum

Litchi withering causing agent Fusarium oxysporum/solani, belongs to a group of mild fungi which is known for its wide host border and firmness in the soil. The pathogen infects litchi trees through the roots, occupies the vascular system and causes obstruction of water-rich vessels. As a result, the plants begin to fade and eventually the tree dies. The life cycle of fusarium oxysporum/solani involves surviving as a chlamydospore resistant to the soil. These spores can persist for years, when a sensitive host faces the susceptible root system waiting to be infected, the fungus sprouts and enters the roots, and installs itself in vascular tissues. Then the fungus produces more spore, completes the cycle and maintains the disease.

Factors Contributing to Wilting of Litchi

Many factors contribute to the development and spread of wilting of litchi such as…

Soil Conditions: Fusarium oxysporum thrives in warm and moist soil conditions. Poor drainage and waterlogged soils create an ideal environment for the fungus to infect litchi trees.

Varying susceptibility: Some litchi varieties exhibit resistance to Fusarium oxysporum, others are highly susceptible. The choice of variety significantly affects the susceptibility of the garden to litchi wilt.

Temperature and humidity: Warm temperatures and high humidity favor the growth and spread of Fusarium oxysporum. These climatic conditions provide optimal conditions for pathogens to infect litchi trees.

How to Manage Litchi Wilt Disease?

Management of litchi wilt requires a holistic approach that combines preventive measures, cultural measures, chemical treatments, biological control, sanitation and ongoing research on resistant varieties. Let's take a deeper look at each of these components:

1. Preventive measures

Site Selection: It is important to select well-drained sites to reduce the risk of litchi wilting. Avoiding waterlogged areas helps create a less favorable environment for Fusarium oxysporum.

Selection of resistant varieties: Planting litchi varieties with inherent resistance to the pathogen is a proactive strategy. Ongoing research aims to identify and develop resistant varieties that can withstand Fusarium oxysporum.

2. Cultural (agricultural) measures

Irrigation Management: Proper irrigation practices are essential. It is important to maintain a balance between waterlogging and drought stress to create unfavorable conditions for Fusarium oxysporum. Drip irrigation systems can help deliver water directly to the root zone, reducing soil contact with the pathogen.

Pruning and thinning: Regular pruning of infected branches and thinning of the canopy promote air circulation, reducing moisture around the tree. This, in turn, reduces the chances of fungal spores germination and infection.

Distance between trees: It is very important to have adequate distance between litchi trees. The increased distance facilitates better air circulation, reduces humidity and limits the spread of Fusarium oxysporum.

3. Chemical treatment

Fungicide Application: Fungicides play an important role in the management of wilt of litchi. Fungicides containing active ingredients such as thiophanate-methyl and propiconazole have demonstrated efficacy against Fusarium oxysporum/solani. With preventive treatments implemented during the early stages of disease development, timing of application is important. Treat the soil (active root zone) with a solution of Hexaconazole or Propiconazole @ 2 ml per litre of water or a fungicide called Carbendazim or Roco M @ 2 grams per liter of water and thoroughly soak the soil around the tree. After ten days, thoroughly soak the soil around the tree again with the same solution.

Integrated disease management (IDM): Integrating fungicides with other disease management practices reduces the risk of resistance developing. The IDM approach considers the ecological context and aims for sustainable, long-term disease control.

4. Biological control

Beneficial Microorganisms: Some beneficial microorganisms such as various species of Trichoderma have shown promise in suppressing Fusarium oxysporum/solani. These biocontrol agents can be applied to the soil or used as foliar sprays, providing a natural and environmentally friendly means of disease management.

In litchi, apply Neem cake or castor cake @ 5-8 kg/tree along with recommended dose of fertilizer according to the age of the tree or apply Burmese compost @ 20-25 kg per tree. The use of biocontrol agents such as Trichoderma harzianum, Trichoderma viridi, Pseudomonas fluorescens, etc. has proven effective in the management of the disease. Mix 100-200 grams of commercial formulation of Trichoderma with 20 kg of well-rotted cow dung or compost and spread it per adult tree in the active root zone in a circular strip about 30-40 cm wide on the soil surface at a place where Provide water that is about two feet inside the outer limit of the tree canopy. Ensure adequate moisture in the soil by spraying water or do light irrigation

Microbial consortia: Research is ongoing to develop microbial consortia that utilize the synergistic effects of multiple beneficial microorganisms. These consortia offer advanced disease suppression while reducing environmental impact.

5. Cleanliness

Debris Removal: It is important to promptly remove and destroy infected plant debris to eliminate potential sources of inoculum. Fallen leaves, cut branches and other plant material should be disposed of properly to prevent the persistence of Fusarium oxysporum in the garden.

Tool Disinfection: Regular disinfection of pruning tools and equipment helps prevent the inadvertent spread of fungus between trees. Hygiene is essential to reduce the risk of disease transmission during garden maintenance.

6. Research on resistant varieties

Breeding Programme: Continuous efforts in breeding programs are aimed at developing litchi varieties with inherent resistance to Fusarium oxysporum. Identifying and promoting resistant varieties is a sustainable long-term solution to litchi wilt.

Genetic Engineering: Advances in genetic engineering can accelerate the development of resistant varieties. By introducing genes that confer resistance to Fusarium oxysporum, researchers aim to increase litchi's ability to withstand the pathogen.

7. Precision Agriculture Technology

Remote sensing: Precision agriculture technologies, including remote sensing, enable growers to monitor orchard health from a distance. Drones equipped with sensors can detect early signs of disease, allowing targeted intervention and timely disease management.

Data Analytics: Analysis of data collected through precision agriculture technologies provides valuable insights into disease dynamics. This information guides growers in optimizing management practices and improving overall orchard health.

Summary

Litchi Wilt (Wither) management requires multidimensional and integrated approaches. From preventive measures and cultural measures to chemical remedies, biological control, hygiene and ongoing research on resistant varieties, each component plays an important role in reducing the impact of fusarium oxysporum. It is necessary to ensure the livelihood of producers facing a holistic strategy, maintaining litchi orchards, and through the challenges of lychee withering.

Guava crop is the fourth largest commercial crop in India after mango, banana, and lemon. Guava cultivation in India started in the 17th century. The tropical regions of America and West Indies are known for the origin of guava. Guava has adapted so well to the climate of India that it is cultivated very successfully. 

At present, apart from Maharashtra, Karnataka, Orissa, West Bengal, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Bihar, and Uttar Pradesh, it is also being cultivated in Punjab and Haryana. In Punjab, guava is cultivated on an area of ​​8022 hectares and the average yield is 160463 metric tons. Along with this, the demand for guavas produced in India's climate is continuously increasing in foreign countries, due to which its cultivation has started being done commercially all over India.

Guava taste and nutrients

The taste of guava is more delicious and sweet. Various medicinal properties are also present inside guava. For this reason, it is also used to get relief from dental diseases. Guava has its importance in gardening. Guava is also called the apple of the poor because it is beneficial, cheap, and available everywhere. Guava contains nutrients like Vitamin C, Vitamin B, Calcium, Iron, and Phosphorus.

Also read: Why cultivating Japanese Red Diamond guava is beneficial for farmers

How much profit is earned from guava

Jelly, juice, jam, and barfi are also made from guava. By taking good care of guava fruit, it can be stored for a long time. Farmers can grow guava once and get production for about 30 years. Farmers can easily earn an annual income of Rs 10 to 12 lakh from guava gardening on one acre. If you are also planning to do guava gardening then this article is very beneficial for you. Because in this article we will give you information about guava cultivation.

Commercially improved varieties of guava 

Punjab Pink: The fruits of this variety are a large and attractive golden yellow color. Its pulp is red, from which a very good aroma comes. The annual production of one plant is approximately 155 kg.

Allahabad Safeda: Its fruit is soft and round. Its pulp is white and has an attractive aroma. The annual yield from one plant can be approximately 80 to 100 kg.

Orx Mridula: Its fruits are large in size, soft, round and have white pulp. Up to 144 kg of fruits can be obtained from one plant annually.

Sardar:  Also known as L 49. Its fruit is large in size and rough from the outside. Its pulp is cream-coloured. Its annual production per plant ranges from 130 to 155 kg.

Shweta: The pulp of this variety of fruit is creamy white. The sucrose content in the fruit is 10.5 to 11.0 percent. Its average yield is 151 kg per tree. 

Punjab Safeda: The pulp of this variety of fruit is creamy and white. The amount of sugar in the fruit is 13.4% and the amount of sourness is 0.62%.

Other improved varieties: Allahabad Surkha, Apple Guava, Spotted, Pant Prabhat, Lalit, etc. are the improved commercial varieties of guava. The amount of TSS in all these varieties is more than Allahabad Safeda and L 49 varieties. 

Suitable climate for guava cultivation 

Guava has adapted so well to the Indian climate that it can be cultivated easily and very successfully in any part of India. Due to the guava plant being very tolerant, it can be cultivated easily in any type of soil and climate. The Guava plant is from a tropical climate.

Also read: This guava can provide good income to farmers

Therefore, it is most cultivated in areas with arid and semi-arid climates. Guava plants can easily tolerate both cold and hot climates. But frost falling during the winter season damages its small plants. Its plants can tolerate a maximum temperature of 30 degrees and a minimum of 15 degrees. At the same time, a fully grown plant can tolerate temperatures up to 44 degrees.

Selection of land for farming

As told to you above the guava plant is a plant of tropical climate. According to the Indian climate, it can be successfully cultivated in any type of soil from light to heavy, and with low drainage. But, for its best commercial cultivation, sandy loam to clayey soil is considered best. In alkaline soil, its plants are at risk of rotting disease. 

For this reason, the pH value of the land for its cultivation should be between 6 to 6.5. To get its excellent yield, use only a similar type of soil in the field. Guava gardening can be done in both hot and dry climates. The areas of the country which receive 100 to 200 cm of rainfall in a year. There it can be easily cultivated successfully.

Process of sowing guava seeds

For guava cultivation, it is best to sow seeds from February to March or August to September. Guava plants are planted through both seed and seedling methods. Apart from sowing seeds in the field, quick production can be achieved by planting seedlings. If you are planting saplings in a guava field, then maintain a distance of 6 x 5 meters at the time of planting. If the sapling has been planted squarely, then keep the distance between its saplings to 15 to 20 feet. 25 cm of sapling. Plant at a depth of. 

Also read: Farmers can earn 3 times more income from Japanese Red Diamond guava than normal guava.

This will provide ample space for the plants and their branches to spread. About 132 saplings can be planted in one acre of guava farmland. Apart from this, if its cultivation is being sown through seeds, then the distance will be as per the plantation and the seeds should be sown at normal depth.

Method of sowing – Sowing can be done by planting in the field, by grafting, by sowing, by direct sowing, etc.

What is the process of propagating saplings from guava seeds?  

Traditional guava crop is used in selective breeding. It can be used for excellent yield and quality of fruits. Pant Prabhat, Lucknow-49, Allahabad Surkh, Paluma Arka Mirdula, etc. have been developed similarly. Its plants are prepared by planting seeds or by air layering method. Sardar variety seeds are drought tolerant and can be used to prepare cheese from the roots. For this, seeds should be prepared from fully ripe fruits and sown in beds or soft beds from August to March. 

Please note that the length of the beds should be 2 meters and the width should be 1 meter. After 6 months from sowing, Paneeri is ready to be planted in the field. When the width of the newly germinated paneer becomes 1 to 1.2 cm and the height reaches 15 cm, it is ready to be used for the germination method. The time from May to June is suitable for the pen method. Young plants and freshly cut branches or cuttings can be used for the germination method.

In North India, especially Bihar and Uttar Pradesh, the appearance of mango starts in the second week of February, it is determined by the different varieties of mango and the temperature at that time. Mango (Mangifera indica) is the most important tropical fruit in India. In India, it is mainly cultivated in Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and Bihar. According to the statistics of the Ministry of Agriculture of the Government of India for the year 2020-21, mango is cultivated in 2316.81 thousand hectares in India, from which 20385.99 thousand tonnes are produced. The national productivity of mango is 8.80 tonnes per hectare. In Bihar, it is cultivated in 160.24 thousand hectares area from which 1549.97 thousand tonnes of production is obtained. The productivity of mango in Bihar is 9.67 tonnes per hectare. Which is slightly higher than the national productivity.

To increase the productivity of mangoes, it is necessary to know how to scientifically manage the orchard after planting of Manjar Tikola. Flowering is an important stage in mango as it directly affects the fruit yield. Flowering in mangoes is highly dependent on variety and environmental conditions. Thus, proper management strategies adopted during the flowering stage of mango directly affect fruit production.

Arrival of mango blossom

Mango trees usually begin flowering when mature after 5-8 years of growth, before which the flowers should be plucked. The flowering season of mango in North India generally begins in mid-February. Mango flowering initiation requires 20-25°C during the day time and 10-15°C during the night with bright sunlight. However, depending on the timing of flowering, fruit development begins by May–June. High humidity, frost, or rain during the flowering period affects flower formation. Cloudy weather during flowering helps in the spread of mango hopper and powdery mildew and anthracnose diseases, which hampers the growth and flowering of mango.

Also read: Favorable environmental conditions and orchard management for mango flowering

What effect does flowering have on fruit production in mango?

Mango flowers are small, yellow, or pinkish-red depending on the mango species, clustered in clusters that hang down from the branches. They are bisexual flowers but cross-pollination by pollinators contributes to the maximum fruit set. Common pollinators include bees, wasps, moths, butterflies, flies, beetles, and ants. The number of flowers produced and the duration of the flowering stage directly affect fruit yield. However, flowering is influenced by many factors such as temperature, humidity, sunlight, insect and disease infestation, and availability of water and nutrients. These factors affect the timing and intensity of flowering. If the above factors are not optimal during the flowering stage, it will result in fewer or smaller fruits. Not all flowers produced will produce fruit. Proper pollination is essential for the fruit to fully set and develop. Even after adequate pollination, only a certain proportion of flowers form due to the mass dropping of flowers and fruits due to several factors such as weather conditions and insect infestation. This ultimately affects the yield and quality of fruits. The timing, duration, and intensity of flowering significantly affect fruit production in mango trees.

Mango Flower Management
Traction actions

Proper cutting and pruning of mango trees after harvesting of the fruit results in good and healthy flowers. Pruning – Due to lack of pruning, the mango canopy becomes dense, due to which light is not able to penetrate the internal parts of the tree and thus flowering and yield are reduced. Pruning the tips of the branches triggers flowering. The best time to prune is after the fruit has been harvested, usually from June to August. Tip pruning, done 10 cm above the last internode, improves flowering. Girdling is a method used to induce the formation of fruit buds in mangoes. It involves removing strips of bark from the trunk of the mango tree. It increases flowering, fruit set, and fruit size by increasing foliar carbohydrates and plant hormones in the aboveground parts of the girdle by blocking the downward transfer of metabolites through the phloem. By making a circle at the time of emergence of inflorescence, the accumulation of fruits increases. The depth of girdling should be kept in mind. Excessive girth depth can damage the tree. This work should be done only after expert supervision or training.

Plant Growth Regulator (PGR)

Plant growth regulators (PGRs) are used to control flowering and increase yields by influencing the physiological processes that control plant growth and development. NAAs also help prevent flowering, bud drop, and fruit ripening. They help in increasing fruit size, increasing and improving fruit quality and yield. Planofix @ 1ml The medicine should be dissolved in 3 liters of water and sprayed just before the flowers emerge and the second spraying should be done when the fruit is equal to a pea. This spraying is necessary to prevent the tikolo (small mango fruits) from falling. To promote flowering, apply phosphorus fertilizer at the pre-flowering stage. Adequate potassium levels can enhance flowering in mango trees and increase the number of flowers and fruits. Potassium helps transport nutrients and water to the fruit, which is essential for its growth and size. It also helps in increasing the resistance of plants to moisture stress, heat, frost, and disease. The use of micronutrients gives better results by improving flowering, fruit quality, and controlling fruit drop. 

Also read: How to manage the problem of tip burn of mango leaves?

Pests and Disease Management

During flowering and fruit formation, the chances of insect and disease infestation are high, leading to premature drop of flowers and fruits. Mango hopper, flower gall midge, mealy bug, and leaf webber are the major pests attacking mango flowers. Mango powdery mildew, mango malformation, and anthracnose are diseases that affect mango flowers resulting in reduced fruit growth. Check the symptoms and management of pests and diseases in mango flowers to increase the fruit yield - Diseases and pests in mango flowers should be managed.

For the last 4-5 years, the problem of the mealy bug (Gujiya) has been increasing year by year in Bihar. For the management of this pest, it is necessary to clean the garden around December-January and sprinkle Chlorpyrifos 1.5 D. dust @ 250 grams per tree in the soil and to prevent mealy bug (Gujiya) insects from climbing the tree, a 45 cm strip of alkaline should be tied with twine around the main stem of the mango. By doing this this insect will not be able to climb the tree. If you have not done this before and the Gujiya insect has climbed the tree, then in such a situation apply Dimethoate 30 EC. Or Quinalphos 25 EC @ 1.5 ml should be dissolved in per liter of water and sprayed. In mango orchards that are not managed properly, there are a large number of hoppers or maggot insects, hence the sunlight must reach the ground in the orchard. Where the orchard is dense, there also the number of these insects is higher. When insects appear on trees, these insects are very good food sources for these insects, due to which there is a huge increase in the number of these insects. The second sign of the presence of these insects is when we go near the garden. When we go, swarms of insects come near us. If these insects are not managed, they suck the juice from the plant and the plant falls. When 10-12 maggots are visible per blossom, then we should spray Imidacloprid 17.8 SL @ 1 ml dissolved in 2 liters of water. This spraying should be done before the flowers bloom, otherwise, the bees coming to the garden get affected, which reduces pollination and affects the yield. 

           For the management of Powdery Mildew/Kharra disease, it is necessary to spray soluble sulfur @ 2 grams/liter dissolved in water before the arrival of the disease. When the temperature exceeds 35 degrees Celsius, the severity of this disease starts reducing automatically.

Also read: How to manage if the mango tree is drying from top to bottom (top dieback)?

The blossoms suffering from Gumma disease should be cut and removed. If there is a problem with stem borer or leaf-cutting insects in the garden, then use Quinalphos 25 EC. @ 2 ml of medicine should be dissolved in / liter of water and sprayed. But it is worth noting that from just before the flowers bloom to when the flowers are in bloom, do not use any chemicals at any time, otherwise, pollination is badly affected and there is a possibility of the soft parts of the flower getting injured.

5. Pollination

    The mango flower has both male and female reproductive organs in the same flower. However, mango flowers are relatively small and do not produce large amounts of pollen. Therefore, they rely heavily on pollinators such as flies, wasps, and other insects to transfer pollen between flowers. Without pollination, mango flowers may not produce fruit, or the fruit may become small or misshapen. Mango yield increases through cross-pollination. It is important to note that insecticides and fungicides should not be sprayed during the full bloom stage as pollination by insects will be affected at this time which will reduce the yield. To get a good yield from the mango orchard, it would be good to keep bee colony boxes in the mango orchard, this helps in good pollination and more fruits are produced. 

6. Weather Conditions

  Optimum weather conditions during flowering increase successful fruit set rates and yields. For example, excessive wind speed causes flowers and fruits to fall en masse. Thus, it is necessary to protect mango orchards from wind by installing windbreaks or shelterbelts.

Also read: Professor in this state is earning profits worth lakhs from mango farming 

7. Water Management

  Mango trees require adequate amounts of water, especially during the growing season. Insufficient or excessive watering can reduce fruit yield and quality. Proper water management also helps prevent diseases and pests, which thrive in moist environments. In hot and dry climates, irrigation can help increase humidity levels and reduce temperature fluctuations, providing a more favorable environment for mango growth. Excessive irrigation can reduce soil temperature, resulting in reduced plant growth and development. On the other hand, inadequate watering can increase soil temperatures, damaging plant roots and reducing yields. Thus, effective water management is essential to ensure healthy plant growth and fruit production. Irrigation should not be done between 2 to 3 months before flowering and when the fruit becomes the size of a pea. Some gardeners irrigate the mango at the time of flowering and flowering, due to which the flowers fall. Therefore, it is advised not to irrigate until the fruit becomes equal to a pea. 

Summary

Mango flower management for higher yields involves a combination of strategies aimed at optimizing plant growth, managing pests and diseases, and ensuring optimal environmental conditions for flower development and pollination. Following these management practices can increase flower and fruit production, leading to higher yields and improved fruit quality. 

Dr. SK Singh Professor (Plant Pathology) and Head of the Department, Post Graduate Department of Plant Pathology, Principal Investigator, All India Fruit Research Project, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Pusa-848 125, Samastipur, Bihar

Send feedback sksraupusa@gmail.com/sksingh@rpcau.ac.in