Mustard Crop Alert: Fungal Stem Rot Spreads During Pod Formation; Protect Your Yield Now!

• Stem Rot, a fungal disease, is rapidly spreading in mustard crops across North India, including Uttar Pradesh, during the crucial pod formation stage.
• Caused by 'Sclerotinia', the disease thrives in shady, high-moisture areas, leading to stem rot, plant collapse, and significant yield loss.
• Dr. N.C. Tripathi of Krishi Vigyan Kendra Niyamatpur advises spraying a mixture of 'Carbendazim and Mancozeb' (400g in 150L water per acre) for effective control.
• Initial symptoms include white or grayish spots on the stem; inadequate drainage and excessive shade increase the risk of infection.
• For prevention, adopt balanced irrigation, field sanitation, weed control, crop rotation, and seed treatment for future seasons.