Vol. 12, Issue 9 (2023)

Author(s):
HS Varma, MB Patel, KH Patel, PK Parmar, DM Rathod and Late SK Singh

Abstract:
This research aimed to evaluate various modules for the effective management of banded leaf and sheath blight (Rhizoctonia solani) in maize. The study was conducted at the Main Maize Research Station, Anand Agricultural University, Godhra, during the kharif seasons of 2019, 2020, and 2021. We applied a large plot sampling technique involving four modules, each with four repetitions, to evaluate different approaches for eco-friendly banded leaf and sheath blight disease management in maize. Parameters such as Disease Index (ranging from 1 to 9), plant height, final plant stand/net plot, number of cobs per plot, and grain yield (kg/ha) were recorded to assess the impact of these modules. Among the modules, the Integrated Disease Management (IDM) approach yielded the most significant results. This approach included seed treatment with T. viride at 10 g/kg seed and Thiram 75 WS at 3 g/kg seed, soil application of T. viride at 10 g/100g FYM/m², one foliar application of Azadirachtin 1500 ppm @ 4 ml/lit of water at 35 DAS, and one foliar application of Azoxystrobin 18.2% + Difenoconazole 11.4% (29.6 SC) @ 1 ml/litre of water at 50 DAS. This IDM module led to a remarkable reduction in banded leaf and sheath blight (BLSB) disease severity (11.80%) and resulted in the highest grain yield (5034 kg/ha) and fodder yield (5551 kg/ha) compared to the unprotected inorganic check. This study emphasizes the importance of integrated disease management (IDM) strategies for effectively controlling BLSB in maize. By combining biological agents, fungicides, and other treatments, IDM can enhance disease resistance, promote plant growth, and significantly improve crop yield and productivity.