False smut (Ustilaginoidea virens): It is a fungal disease in which the individual grains transform into large yellowish/greenish velvety spore-balls (Plate No. 6, page 186). High relative humidity, rainy and cloudy days during the flowering period increase the incidence of the disease. The application of organic manures and high dose of nitrogenous fertilizers also increases the intensity of attack. To control this disease, give spray of 400 ml Galileo Way 18.76 SC (picoxystrobin + propiconazole) or 500 g Kocide 46 DF (copper hydroxide) in 200 litres of water per acre at boot stage of the crop in disease prone areas.
To prevent rice diseases, avoid excessive use of nitrogen.
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Early transplanting, excessive ponding of water, continuous dizzling, 25-30oC temperature and high relative humidity are favourable for development of diseases.
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Monitor the crop for sheath blight appearance and apply recommended fungicides for its timely management.
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For the management of false smut, apply preventive application of recommended fungicide at boot stage.