Chickpea, also known as gram or bengal gram, is an important pulse crop grown widely by farmers in India. One of the serious problems faced in chickpea cultivation is root fungus, commonly seen as root rot or wilt. This disease affects the roots and lower stem of the plant and can cause sudden drying, yellowing, and poor yield. If not managed in time, root fungus can spread quickly and damage a large part of the field. Understanding the causes and following proper control methods can help farmers protect their chickpea crop.
Root fungus in chickpea usually develops due to unfavourable soil conditions. Poor drainage, excess moisture, continuous cropping of chickpea in the same field, and use of infected seed are the main reasons for this problem. Infected plants show yellowing of leaves, wilting even when soil has moisture, and drying from the bottom upwards. When such plants are pulled out, the roots appear brown or black and rotten instead of healthy white roots.
The first and most important step to control root fungus is proper field selection and preparation. Chickpea should be grown in well-drained soils. Fields where water stagnates should be avoided. Before sowing, the land should be well prepared and leveled to allow excess water to drain easily. Deep summer ploughing helps expose disease-causing fungi to heat and sunlight, reducing their survival.
Using healthy and disease-free seed is very important. Farmers should avoid using seeds collected from infected fields. Seed treatment before sowing helps protect young seedlings from early fungal attack. Treating seeds improves germination and strengthens the root system during early growth stages.
Crop rotation plays a major role in managing root fungus. Growing chickpea continuously in the same field increases fungal population in the soil. Rotating chickpea with cereals or other non-host crops for one or two seasons helps break the disease cycle and reduces infection. This also improves overall soil health.
Soil health management is another key factor. Applying well-decomposed farmyard manure or compost improves soil structure and encourages beneficial microorganisms. These helpful microbes compete with harmful fungi and suppress their growth. Fresh or undecomposed organic matter should be avoided, as it may increase fungal activity.
Irrigation management is very important in controlling root fungus. Chickpea does not need frequent irrigation. Excess irrigation creates favourable conditions for fungal growth. Irrigation should be given only when required, and over-watering should be strictly avoided. Proper moisture balance helps roots remain healthy.
Field sanitation 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 cultivation reduces disease pressure in the next season.
Biological control methods are also useful. Beneficial soil organisms can be applied to suppress root fungi naturally. These methods are safe and help maintain long-term soil fertility.
Chemical control may be required when disease incidence is severe. Soil drenching around affected plants gives better results than spraying. Chemicals should be used carefully and only as recommended.
In conclusion, root fungus in chickpea can be controlled by following proper drainage, seed treatment, crop rotation, balanced irrigation, and good soil health practices. Regular field monitoring and early action are the keys to preventing serious losses. With timely management and good farming practices, farmers can grow a healthy chickpea crop and achieve better yield.
