Fungal diseases are one of the major challenges faced by farmers growing Bengal gram, also known as chana or chickpea. This important rabi crop is sensitive to changes in temperature, moisture, and soil conditions. When the weather becomes cool and humid, or when the soil remains wet for too long, different fungal infections can attack the crop and reduce yield. Managing these diseases requires a combination of prevention, careful field practices, and timely treatment. With proper care, farmers can protect their Bengal gram crop and ensure a healthy harvest.
Some of the common fungal diseases seen in Bengal gram include wilt, root rot, collar rot, Ascochyta blight, and botrytis gray mould. Wilt appears as sudden drying of plants, even when there is enough moisture in the soil. Collar rot affects young seedlings, making them topple over near the soil surface. Root rot causes yellowing and weak roots, while Ascochyta blight creates brown spots on leaves, stems, and pods. These diseases spread quickly under favourable conditions, so early detection and immediate action are important.
The first step to managing fungal diseases is prevention before sowing. Farmers should always select healthy, disease-free seeds. Seed treatment is one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect the crop from early fungal attacks. Treating seeds with a recommended fungicide before sowing helps shield seedlings during the first few weeks, which is the most vulnerable stage. Using treated seeds reduces the chances of wilt, root rot, and collar rot significantly.
Proper field preparation also plays a big role. Bengal gram does not grow well in waterlogged soils. If the field has poor drainage, fungal infections become more common. Farmers should prepare raised beds or ridges, especially in heavy soils, to improve water flow and reduce moisture stress. Deep ploughing after harvest helps destroy fungal spores and removes infected crop residues, which otherwise remain in the soil and infect the next crop.
Crop rotation is another important practice. Growing chana in the same field year after year increases fungal pressure. Rotating Bengal gram with cereals like wheat, maize, or sorghum helps break the disease cycle. Pulses should not be rotated with other pulses because they share similar diseases.
During crop growth, regular monitoring is essential. Farmers should check the field every few days, especially after rain or cloudy weather. If infected plants are found, they should be removed and destroyed to prevent disease spread. Avoiding overcrowding of plants is also important because dense crop canopy increases humidity, which favours fungal growth.
Balanced nutrition strengthens the plant’s natural resistance. Excess nitrogen should be avoided because it makes plants soft and susceptible to diseases. Adequate phosphorus and potassium support strong roots and better disease tolerance. Light irrigation helps during dry spells, but over-irrigation must be avoided.
When disease symptoms start appearing, timely fungicide spray can prevent further spread. Spraying should be done during calm weather, ensuring good coverage on both upper and lower leaf surfaces.
In simple words, fungal diseases in Bengal gram can be managed through clean seeds, seed treatment, good drainage, crop rotation, balanced nutrients, regular monitoring, and timely fungicide application. By following these practices, farmers can keep their crop healthy and improve their overall yield.
