Occurrence and Prevention Technology of Main Diseases of Sesame
Sesame is a vital oilseed crop and an important export commodity, playing a significant role in the agricultural economy. As its economic value continues to rise, the area under sesame cultivation has been expanding. The growth cycle of sesame is relatively short—only about 85 days—but it occurs during the hot and rainy season, making it highly susceptible to various diseases. Common ailments such as sesame wilt disease and stem blight are major factors contributing to low and unstable yields. To improve production and increase farmers' income, we have spent several years researching the occurrence and prevention techniques of these diseases. We now summarize our findings for reference.
First, the main diseases affecting sesame:
1. **Sesame Stem Blight**
Also known as "black root disease" or "black stalk disease," this is the most devastating disease in sesame farming. The incidence typically ranges from 10% to 15%, but can reach up to 60% to 80% in severe cases. It usually affects the flowering and podding stages. The infection starts at the roots or lower stems and spreads upward. Affected roots turn brown, while infected stems develop dark spots with a glossy surface and black granules. In severe cases, the leaves curl and wilt from the bottom up, and the plant tips bend downward. The vascular tissues of the roots and stems become damaged, leaving only the fibers. The pathogen is mainly spread through sclerotia on seeds and in the soil, thriving in high humidity, heavy rainfall, and poorly drained areas.
2. **Sesame Bacterial Wilt**
This disease is widespread across all sesame-producing regions. Early symptoms include green lesions that turn black on the stems, followed by sudden wilting of the leaves from top to bottom. In the early stages, plants may recover in the evening, but after 3–5 days, they die completely. Infected plants are shorter, with brown vascular bundles in the roots and stems. The disease spreads to the pith, causing empty pods and bacterial exudates. Leaves show dark green veins with yellowing edges, and the pods develop dark brown stripes. The bacteria overwinter in infected seeds and residues, often leading to outbreaks after heavy rains.
3. **Sesame Fusarium Wilt (Half Yellow Disease)**
This disease is also common, with an average incidence of 5%–10% and up to 30% in severe cases. It affects both seedlings and mature plants. Symptoms include yellowing and dropping of lower leaves, with reddish-brown discoloration along the stems. A pinkish layer may appear on wet lesions. The disease is caused by *Fusarium* fungi that survive in the soil and on seeds.
4. **Sesame Leaf Spot (Epidemic Disease)**
This primarily affects the base of the stems, forming water-soaked, dark green lesions that later turn reddish-brown. Wet conditions promote the growth of fungal filaments. Infected leaves develop large yellow-brown spots, and the disease spreads quickly under favorable conditions. The pathogen overwinters in the soil as hyphae or oospores.
Second, comprehensive prevention and control measures:
Given the variety of diseases and their sources, effective management requires a combination of agricultural practices and chemical control. Key strategies include selecting disease-resistant varieties, implementing crop rotation, improving drainage through ditch cultivation, and applying appropriate fungicides.
1. **Choosing Resistant Varieties**
Although no variety is completely resistant, some show better tolerance. Varieties like Yuzhi No. 4, Yuzhi No. 10, and Yuzhi No. 11 are recommended for local planting, offering economic benefits.
2. **Crop Rotation**
Rotating crops every 4–5 years significantly reduces disease incidence. Continuous cropping increases the risk, while longer rotations help break the disease cycle. Field trials showed that a five-year rotation reduced stem blight incidence to 8.3%, compared to 38.4% in continuous cropping.
3. **Ditch Cultivation**
Proper drainage is crucial, especially during the rainy season. Ditch systems reduce waterlogging, which weakens plants and promotes disease. Trials in Henan Province showed a 69.4% yield increase with ditch cultivation.
4. **Chemical Control**
- **Seed Treatment**: Using fungicides like 40% mancozeb (0.3%) or 70% thiophanate-methyl (0.1%) helps prevent seed-borne diseases.
- **Field Spraying**: Applying 90% chlorothalonil, 25% metalaxyl, or 10% iprodione during early disease stages is effective in controlling outbreaks.
By combining these methods, farmers can significantly reduce disease impact, improve yields, and ensure sustainable sesame production.
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