Influence of different sowing dates on stem rot disease in pea and its management
Keywords:
Disease control, Metiram and Pyraclostrobin, Per cent disease index, Salicylic acid, Stem rot, Trichoderma harzianumAbstract
Stem rot caused by Sclerotinia sclerotiorum (Lib.) de Bary is a major soil-borne disease that attacks a large number of crops, including peas. Incidence of this disease was studied over two consecutive years (2023-24 and 2024-25). Results revealed that the lowest percentage disease index (PDI) and disease incidence were observed in the November 16th sowing (late sowing), specifically, at 90 days after sowing (DAS), the PDI was 20.66% and the disease incidence was 23.66%. Conversely, the highest PDI (44.00%) and disease incidence (47.33%) were recorded at 90 DAS for the October 16th sowing (control). This shows that late sowing significantly reduces stem rot impact and potential crop losses, possibly by allowing the crop to avoid peak disease exposure. Also, during these two years, three sprays at 60, 75 and 90 DAS were given, and they significantly controlled the stem rot disease of pea. Metiram 55% + Pyraclostrobin 5% WG consistently showed the lowest (PDI) and highest disease control at each spray. Salicylic acid and Trichoderma harzianum also exhibited good control. Thus, these can be recommended for use against the disease.
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