Bengal gram, also known as chickpea, is an important pulse crop grown widely by farmers in India. One of the major problems faced during its cultivation is root fungus, commonly seen as root rot or wilt. This disease affects the roots and lower stem of the plant, causing sudden wilting and drying. If not controlled in time, root fungus can spread quickly and cause heavy yield loss. Understanding the causes and adopting proper management practices can help farmers protect their Bengal gram crop effectively.
Root fungus in Bengal gram usually develops due to poor soil conditions. Waterlogging, excess irrigation, continuous cropping of Bengal gram in the same field, and use of infected seed are the main reasons for this problem. Infected plants show yellowing of leaves, drooping, and drying even when there is enough moisture in the soil. When such plants are uprooted, the roots appear dark, rotten, and unhealthy instead of fresh and white.
The first and most important step in controlling root fungus is proper field selection and land preparation. Bengal gram should be grown in well-drained soils. Fields that hold water for long periods should be avoided. Before sowing, the land should be well ploughed and leveled to allow excess water to drain easily. Summer ploughing helps expose disease-causing fungi to heat, reducing their survival.
Using healthy and disease-free seed is very important. Farmers should avoid using seed from infected fields. Seed treatment before sowing helps protect seedlings from early fungal attack. Treated seeds germinate better and develop stronger root systems, which helps the plant resist infection during early growth.
Crop rotation plays a major role in reducing root fungus problems. Growing Bengal gram continuously in the same field increases fungal population in the soil. Rotating the crop with cereals or other non-host crops for one or two seasons helps break the disease cycle and reduces infection pressure.
Organic matter management helps improve soil health and suppress fungal diseases. Applying well-decomposed farmyard manure or compost improves soil structure and encourages beneficial microorganisms. These beneficial microbes compete with harmful fungi and reduce their activity in the soil. Fresh or undecomposed organic matter should be avoided, as it may increase disease problems.
Irrigation management is very important in controlling root fungus. Bengal gram requires limited irrigation. Over-irrigation creates favourable conditions for fungal growth. Irrigation should be given only when required, and excess watering should be avoided. Proper moisture balance helps roots remain healthy and active.
Field sanitation also helps reduce disease spread. Infected plants should be removed and destroyed as soon as symptoms are noticed. Crop residues should be cleared after harvest so that the fungus does not survive in plant remains. Clean fields reduce disease problems in the next season.
When disease incidence is high, chemical control may be required. Soil drenching around affected plants is more effective than spraying. Chemicals should be used carefully and only as recommended.
In conclusion, root fungus in Bengal gram can be controlled by following good farming practices such as proper drainage, seed treatment, crop rotation, balanced irrigation, and maintaining soil health. Early detection and timely action are key to preventing serious crop loss. By adopting these simple and practical methods, farmers can protect their Bengal gram crop and achieve better yield and quality.
