Wheat Karnal Bunt Written on . Posted in Disease.
About: Wheat Karnal Bunt, caused by Tilletia indica, is a fungal disease affecting grains, reducing quality and causing a fishy odor.
Occurs in: Prevalent in Punjab, Haryana, and Himachal Pradesh, especially in cool, wet conditions during flowering.
Identification:
- Look for partially blackened grains with a powdery mass inside.
- Check for a foul, fishy smell from infected grains.
Organic Cure Method:
- Cultural Practices: Avoid irrigation during flowering and remove infected seeds.
- Resistant Varieties: Use resistant varieties like HD 3086.
- Biological Control: Limited options; focus on cultural practices.
Inorganic Cure Method:
- Fungicides: Use seed treatment with Carboxin or Thiram, per local guidelines.
- Monitoring: Inspect grains during harvest for blackened areas.