Powdery mildew is a common fungal disease that affects a wide range of plants, blanketing leaves with its characteristic white powdery growth. The disease is mainly a Airborne Disease, this disease is transferred through airborne spores called Conidia and through direct contact and also by seed transmission. Powdery mildew forms a white, powdery layer on the surfaces of leaves, reducing the amount of photosynthesis reaching the chloroplasts. The fungal growth on leaves can interfere with photosynthesis, the process by which plants convert sunlight into energy. This reduction in photosynthetic activity can impact the overall growth and development of cumin plants. Affect the plant's ability to absorb nutrients from the soil. Nutrient deficiencies can lead to stunted growth, poor development of reproductive structures (flowers and seeds), and ultimately result in a decrease in yield. This disease forms a white powdery coating on leaves, stems, and flowers, reducing photosynthesis and impacting yields.
Classification:
- Type of Infestation: Disease
- Common Name: Powdery Mildew
- Scientific Name: Erysiphe polygoni
- Category of Plant Disease: Fungal Disease
- Mode of spread: Air borne, Direct Contact, Infected Seeds
- Affected parts of plant: Leaves, Stem, Flowers
Favorable factors for disease/Pest Development:
- Warm Temperature: Weather Conditions: The disease thrives in warm and dry climates with high humidity at night and lower humidity during the day. The optimal temperature range for its development is usually between 20 to 30 degrees Celsius (68 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit).
- Overcrowded Fields: Dense planting reduces airflow, creating favorable conditions for the fungus.
- Susceptible Varieties: Certain cumin varieties are more prone to powdery mildew infections.
Initial Symptoms:
White Powdery Coating:
- White, powdery fungal growth appears on leaves, stems, and flowers.
- Initially, small spots form, which spread and merge to cover large areas.
Leaf Curling:
- Infected leaves may curl.
Severe Symptoms:
- Extensive Powdery Coating: As the disease progresses, the white powdery coating becomes more extensive, covering larger areas of leaves, stems, and other plant parts.
- Yellowing of Leaves: Infected leaves may start to turn yellow, affecting the plant's ability to carry out photosynthesis and leading to a decline in overall plant health.
- Early Defoliation: Affected plants may lose their leaves prematurely, further reducing yields.
Control measures for Powdery Mildew Disease in Cumin:
| Product | Technical Name | Dosage |
|---|---|---|
| Hexa 5 Plus | Hexaconazole 5% SC | 200-250 ml/Acre |
| KTM | Thiophanate Methyl 70% WP | 250-600 gm/Acre |
| Dr. Zole | Azoxystrobin 11% + Tebuconazole 18.3% SC | 300 ml/Acre |
| Concor | Difenoconazole 25% EC | 120-150 ml/Acre |
| Tebusul | Tebuconazole 10% + Sulphur 65% WG | 400-500 gm/Acre |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What is Powdery Mildew Disease in Cumin?
A. Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that forms a white, powdery layer on the leaves, stems, and flowers of cumin plants. It spreads through airborne spores, direct contact, and infected seeds. The disease reduces photosynthesis, weakens plants, and decreases yields.
Q. What are the symptoms of Powdery Mildew in Cumin?
- White powdery fungal growth on leaves, stems, and flowers.
- Curling and yellowing of leaves.
- Premature defoliation of infected plants.
- Stunted growth and reduced yields.
Q. What are the favorable conditions for Powdery Mildew in Cumin?
- Warm temperatures between 20-30°C.
- High humidity at night and low humidity during the day.
- Overcrowded fields reducing airflow.
- Cultivation of susceptible cumin varieties.
Q. How does Powdery Mildew impact cumin plants?
- Reduces photosynthesis, leading to stunted growth.
- Affects nutrient absorption, weakening plants.
- Lowers yield by interfering with flowering and seed formation.
Q. How does Powdery Mildew spread?
A. Powdery mildew spreads through airborne spores called conidia, direct contact between plants, and infected seeds. Warm and dry weather conditions facilitate its spread.
For more information about pests and diseases, read our other blogs.
