Published on 11/14/2023 at 12:41 pm – Updated at 12:52 am Registered by Veronica Macado
Severe disease can cause up to 75% loss in cotton productivity. To maintain production levels in the next cycle, growers will need to overcome crop challenges, such as Ramularia (Ramularia areola), a disease that has gained relevance in the last ten years and, today, is one of the most serious in culture.
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According to the Brazilian Association of Cotton Producers (Abrapa), if the disease is controlled, the 22/23 crop will be 3.2 million tonnes, an increase of 27% compared to the previous crop and a record productivity: 1,931 kg/hectare, and An increase of 21% compared to the previous crop and 7% higher than the previous productivity record recorded in the 2019/20 crop (1,802 kg/ha).
“A curiosity is that the scientific name of this disease has been changed recently Ramulariopsis pseudoglycine, After its molecular analysis the classification of the causative agent of the fungus was changed and, today, it is possible to recognize that, in fact, the disease is caused by another pathogen, but without any other change in management or action in the field. Paulo Queiroz, FMC agronomist and portfolio manager, explains.
Ramularia causes losses of up to 75% in productivity and can be seen in all cotton-growing areas, as its spread is facilitated by the action of winds after the first lesions appear.
“He mushroom This reduces the photosynthetic capacity of the plant, affecting flowering, fiber formation and quality, leading to early defoliation and reduced productivity. The initial symptoms are small angular lesions, delimited by veins, on older leaves and during the reproductive phase of the plant”, explains Paulo.
As the disease progresses, it is possible to see powdery white spots. The fungus starts on the lower part of the leaf and can grow to the upper part when the humidity in the environment is high.
However, according to studies, Ramularia management faces challenges that need to be addressed by farmers. Currently, an average of 8 applications of fungicide are made for cotton diseases.
For example, carboxamide-based products applied up to three times during the cycle and with good practices, such as rotation of products with different mechanisms and active ingredients, reduce selection pressure on pathogens and fungicide-resistant populations. Reduces the selection of. ”, advises the manager.
Good management practices also include correct selection of planting time, use of certified seeds and disease resistant varieties, good soil preparation, balanced fertilization and management of weeds from remaining crops. Together, these tips contribute to its success Agriculture And profitability.
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