Sugarcane is an important cash crop, but various fungal diseases, like Pokkah Boeng disease of sugarcane, can significantly impact yield and quality. This disease affects the leaves, stalks, and overall growth of sugarcane, leading to stunted growth and reduced production. Timely identification and proper management can help minimize losses. In this article, we will discuss Pokkah Boeng disease of sugarcane symptoms, its causal organism, treatment, and control measures to protect your crop.
What is Pokkah Boeng Disease of Sugarcane?
Pokkah Boeng disease is a fungal infection caused by Fusarium moniliforme (also known as Fusarium verticillioides). This disease thrives in warm, humid conditions and primarily affects young sugarcane plants. If not managed in time, it can severely damage the crop, leading to poor quality and yield loss.
Pokkah Boeng Disease of Sugarcane Symptoms
The symptoms of Pokkah Boeng disease of sugarcane vary depending on the severity of the infection. It mainly affects the leaves, stalk, and spindle (upper growing part of the cane). The key symptoms include:
- Yellowish spots on leaves – Initially, small yellow patches appear on leaves, which later turn brown.
- Leaf twisting and wrinkling – Leaves start curling, folding, and becoming deformed.
- Spindle rotting and drying – The growing tip of sugarcane (spindle) begins to rot and dries up.
- Cracked and split stalks – The upper portion of the stalk develops deep cracks and splits, affecting the plant's growth.
- Reduced plant height – Due to restricted growth, affected plants become stunted.
- Severe infection leads to plant death – In extreme cases, the plant's entire top part wilts and dies.
Pokkah Boeng Disease of Sugarcane Causal Organism
The main causal organism responsible for Pokkah Boeng disease of sugarcane is the fungus Fusarium moniliforme (Fusarium verticillioides). This pathogen spreads rapidly under warm and humid conditions, especially in poorly drained fields.
Factors Favoring the Spread of Pokkah Boeng Disease of Sugarcane
- Use of infected seed material – The disease spreads when infected seed cane is used for planting.
- High humidity and warm temperatures – Favorable conditions promote fungal growth.
- Waterlogged soil – Poor drainage increases disease incidence.
- Lack of field sanitation – Crop residue can harbor fungal spores, leading to further infections.
- Dense planting – Poor air circulation encourages fungal spread.
By controlling these factors, you can reduce the risk of Pokkah Boeng disease of sugarcane in your field.
Pokkah Boeng Disease of Sugarcane Treatment
To effectively treat Pokkah Boeng disease of sugarcane, follow these measures:
Fungicide Name |
Dosage |
Application Time |
|
200 ml/acre |
Spray at the initial stage of infection |
|
|
350 gm/liter of water |
Apply twice at an interval of 10-15 days |
Pokkah Boeng Disease of Sugarcane Control Measures
Proper disease management strategies can help prevent and control Pokkah Boeng disease of sugarcane effectively.
Preventive and Control Measures:
- Use certified disease - free seed material – Always plant healthy and pathogen-free cane sets.
- Improve field drainage – Avoid waterlogging, as it promotes fungal growth.
- Follow crop rotation – Alternating sugarcane with other crops helps reduce pathogen buildup in the soil.
- Regular field sanitation – Remove infected plant debris and weeds from the field.
- Balanced fertilizer application – Maintain proper nutrient levels, especially potassium and phosphorus, to improve plant resistance.
- Monitor fields regularly – Early detection helps prevent large-scale damage.
Conclusion
Pokkah Boeng disease of sugarcane is a serious fungal disease that can lead to significant yield loss if left unchecked. By understanding its symptoms, causes, treatment, and control measures, farmers can take proactive steps to protect their sugarcane crops. Timely application of fungicides, proper field management, and preventive care can help keep this disease under control and ensure a healthy sugarcane harvest.
FAQs on Pokkah Boeng Disease in Sugarcane
Q. What is Pokkah Boeng disease in sugarcane?
A. Pokkah Boeng disease is a fungal infection caused by Fusarium moniliforme (also known as Fusarium verticillioides). It affects sugarcane plants, causing leaf twisting, spindle rot, and stalk cracking, ultimately reducing yield and quality.
Q. What are the symptoms of Pokkah Boeng?
The key symptoms include:
- Yellowish spots on leaves that turn brown over time.
- Leaf twisting and wrinkling leading to abnormal plant growth.
- Rotting of the spindle (top portion of the cane), which dries up and dies.
- Cracks and splits in the stalk, making the plant weak.
- Stunted plant growth due to disease progression.
Q. What is the best treatment for Pokkah Boeng disease of sugarcane?
A. Spraying Katyayani Azoxystrobin (200 ml/acre) or Copper Oxychloride (350 gm/liter of water) is effective in controlling the disease.
Q. What is the name of the fungus in Pokkah Boeng?
A. The disease is caused by the fungus Fusarium moniliforme (also known as Fusarium verticillioides), which thrives in warm and humid conditions.
Q. What causes Pokkah Boeng disease in sugarcane?
A. The disease is caused by Fusarium moniliforme, a fungal pathogen that thrives in humid conditions.
