Root fungus is a serious problem in Bengal gram (chickpea) and can cause heavy yield loss if not managed properly. Many farmers notice sudden wilting, yellowing, or drying of plants even when there is enough moisture in the soil. This usually happens because fungal diseases attack the roots and block the flow of water and nutrients. With timely and correct management, root fungus in Bengal gram can be controlled effectively.
Root fungus problems mainly develop in fields with poor drainage, continuous chickpea cultivation, and excess soil moisture. The fungi survive in the soil and crop residues for a long time and infect the crop when conditions are favourable. Infected plants show slow growth at first, followed by sudden wilting. When such plants are pulled out, the roots appear black, rotten, or poorly developed.
The most important step in controlling root fungus is prevention. Farmers should select well-drained fields for Bengal gram cultivation. Water should never be allowed to stagnate in the field. Raised beds or proper drainage channels are very helpful, especially in heavy soils. Chickpea does not tolerate excess water, so irrigation should be given carefully.
Crop rotation plays a major role in reducing root fungus. Bengal gram should not be grown repeatedly in the same field. Rotating with cereals such as wheat, sorghum, or maize helps break the disease cycle and reduces fungal population in the soil. Avoid rotating with other pulse crops that may carry similar root diseases.
Using healthy and treated seed is very important. Many root fungal diseases spread through infected seeds. Seed treatment before sowing protects seedlings from early infection. Treated seeds establish better and grow stronger roots, which helps plants tolerate disease pressure.
Soil health management also helps control root fungus. Applying well-decomposed farmyard manure or compost improves soil structure and encourages beneficial microorganisms. These beneficial microbes suppress harmful fungi naturally. Fresh or undecomposed organic matter should be avoided, as it increases fungal activity.
Balanced nutrient management strengthens the plant and improves resistance to disease. Excess nitrogen should be avoided, as it makes plants weak and more prone to fungal attack. Adequate phosphorus helps in strong root development, while potassium improves plant strength and stress tolerance. Sulfur and micronutrients also support healthy growth.
Regular field monitoring helps detect the disease early. If infected plants are seen in patches, they should be removed along with roots and destroyed outside the field. This prevents the spread of fungus to healthy plants. The affected spots can be treated before replanting.
When root fungus infestation becomes severe, chemical control may be necessary. Soil drenching around the plant base with recommended fungicides helps control fungal growth in the root zone. This should be done at the early stage of disease for better results. Repeated use of the same chemical should be avoided to prevent resistance.
Avoid over-irrigation, especially during early crop growth. Bengal gram needs limited water, and excess moisture increases disease severity. Irrigation should be given only at critical stages like flowering and pod formation.
In conclusion, control of root fungus in Bengal gram depends on good drainage, crop rotation, seed treatment, balanced nutrition, organic matter use, and timely field monitoring. Chemical methods should be used only when required. By following these simple and practical steps, farmers can reduce root fungus problems and grow a healthy Bengal gram crop with better yield.
