Bajra, also known as pearl millet, is a grain crop that is grown in arid and semi-arid regions. Like other crops, bajra is susceptible to various diseases that can affect its overall growth and productivity. Some of the common diseases of bajra include:
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1. Downy Mildew: Downy mildew is caused by a fungus called Sclerospora graminicola and is a serious disease of bajra. It typically affects the leaves, causing yellowing, curling, and eventually death of the plant. The disease is favored by cool and humid conditions.
2. Ergot: Ergot is caused by the fungus Claviceps fusiformis. It affects the inflorescence or seed head of bajra, causing it to turn black and hard. Infected seeds are often elongated and have a chalky appearance. Ergot can reduce yield and quality of grains.
3. Rust: Bajra rust is caused by the fungus Puccinia substriata var. indica. It appears as orange-red pustules on the leaves, stems, and inflorescence. As the disease progresses, the affected parts may turn black and shrivel. Rust can reduce grain quality and yield.
4. Bipolaris Leaf Spot: Bipolaris or leaf spot is caused by the fungus Bipolaris sorokiniana. Symptoms include oval brown spots on the leaves. The spots may coalesce and cause defoliation if the infection is severe. Bipolaris leaf spot can result in yield loss if left uncontrolled.
5. Cercospora Leaf Spot: Cercospora leaf spot is caused by the fungus Cercospora fusimaculans. It appears as small circular spots on the leaves, which eventually turn tan or gray with a dark border. Severe infections can cause premature leaf drop and reduce yield.
6. Curvularia Leaf Spot: Curvularia leaf spot is caused by the fungus Curvularia spp. Symptoms include elliptical or irregular brown spots on the leaves. The spots may have a yellow halo and can lead to defoliation if the infection is severe.
Proper disease management practices, including crop rotation, use of disease-resistant varieties, timely sowing, and application of fungicides, can help control these diseases and minimize their impact on bajra crops. Regular scouting and monitoring of the fields can also help detect the presence of diseases at an early stage and implement appropriate control measures.