When Should Farmers Irrigate Mustard Crop? Tips from Experts

Key Highlights

• Irrigate mustard only after checking 4-5 cm soil moisture.
• Avoid overwatering to prevent collar rot disease.
• First irrigation: 28-35 days before flowering.
• Use streptomycin and carbendazim spray for blight symptoms.
• Second irrigation is optional if winter rain is sufficient.

Mustard is a key oilseed crop with great economic value for farmers. Proper irrigation is crucial for ensuring a healthy yield. The Indian Mustard Research Institute, Sewar, Bharatpur, has recently issued important advice regarding the right time and method for the first irrigation of mustard.

Also Read: Madhya Pradesh to Begin Purchasing Jowar, Bajra from November 22, 2024, and Paddy from December 2, 2024, at Minimum Support Price (MSP)

Key Points to Remember for Mustard Irrigation

1. Check Soil Moisture First: - Farmers should only irrigate mustard after checking soil moisture. It is best to ensure that the soil is moist up to a depth of 4 to 5 centimeters before deciding to water the crops.
2. Avoid Overwatering: - Excessive irrigation can also lead to collar rot disease, a fungal issue that damages the crop. Overwatering also increases the chances of this disease, especially when temperatures are high.
3. Treat Affected Plants Promptly: - Farmers who notice symptoms of blight in their mustard crop should act immediately. Experts recommend spraying the crop with a solution made of:
   • 200 ppm streptomycin (200 mg in one liter of water)
   • 2% carbendazim
4. Also, ensure that the spray reaches the infected parts of the plants to control the disease effectively.

What is Collar Rot Disease?

Collar rot, also called stem rot, is caused by the fungus Sclerotium rolfsii. Symptoms include:

• Rotting stems near the ground.
• Wilted plants, particularly during the fruiting stage.
• Small dark green spots on leaves that later turn into wet patches with white fungal growth.

This disease spreads rapidly in wet conditions, especially during warm weather. It affects younger plants the most and can devastate the crop if not managed in time.

Timing of Irrigation in Mustard

• First Irrigation: 28 to 35 days after sowing, before the flowering stage.
• Second Irrigation: 70 to 80 days after pod formation.
  Note: If there is adequate winter rain, avoid the second irrigation as it may not be necessary.

For regions with limited water availability or saline water, consider irrigating once. Gypsum and cow dung manure are used to balance soil quality when using alkaline water.

Also Read: Haryana Government Offers Incentives and Subsidies for Farmers to Prevent Stubble Burning

CMV360 Says

Farmers are encouraged to follow these guidelines for better mustard crop management and to minimize losses due to diseases like collar rot. For further advice or assistance, contact the nearest Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) or agricultural officer.

By taking these precautions, farmers can ensure a healthy mustard crop and maximize their yields.