Introduction

Cassava, a vital root crop for millions of people around the world, plays a significant role in food security and economic stability, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions. However, like all crops, cassava is susceptible to a range of diseases that can severely impact yield and quality. Effective disease management is crucial to maintain the health of cassava plants and ensure a robust harvest. In this blog, we will explore the common diseases that afflict cassava, their symptoms, and the best practices for managing and preventing these issues to promote a healthy and productive crop. By understanding and implementing these strategies, farmers can protect their cassava fields, enhance food security, and contribute to sustainable agriculture.

Cassava Mosaic Disease: Indian cassava mosaic virus

Symptoms:

Mosaic symptom, reduction in leaf size, misshapen twisted leaves.

The affected plants stunted, tuber splitting and yield reduction.

The virus spreads by infected setts and whitefly Bemisia tabaci

Management:

Selection of setts from healthy plants

Rouging infected plants in the field at early stage

Management of whitefly by installing yellow sticky traps, removal of weed hosts, spray neem oil 3% or Methyl demeton @ 2ml/lit.

Spraying of systemic insecticide like dimethoate 1 ml/lit to control the vector

Use of resistant variety CTCRRI Co (TP)5- Sripadmanaba suited for Tamil Nadu and Kerala.

Brown leaf spot: Cercospora henningsii

Symptoms:

Spots are produced on both the sides of leaves.

On upper surface brown spots with dark border appears.

On lower side of the leaf spots with grey centre and less distinct margin appear. The infected leaves turn yellow and dry up.

Management:

Spray with Copper oxychloride 0.25%.

Summary

Cassava growers beware! Two common diseases threaten your crops. Cassava Mosaic Disease, spread by whiteflies, stunts plants and reduces yields. To combat this, select healthy cuttings, remove infected plants promptly, and manage whiteflies using traps, weed removal, and neem oil sprays. Resistant varieties offer another line of defence. Brown leaf spot, a fungal culprit, causes leaves to dry and wither. Fortunately, copper oxychloride fungicide sprays can effectively control this problem. By implementing these strategies, cassava growers can ensure a healthy and bountiful harvest.