Kalpetta: A Karnataka model has evolved to effectively combat Pyricularia fungus, which affects the ginger crop in both Kerala too.

Indigenous experiments carried out by farmers when the disease first erupted in the districts of Coorg, Mysuru, Hassan, Chamarajanagar and Shimoga helped to keep the fungi at bay to a considerable extent. The fungal infection was first reported in Coorg in Karnataka in 2024. The leaves and roots of the affected ginger plants initially turned yellow and eventually dried up. The spread of the disease led to a steep decline in production. It was at this point that farmers began experimenting with their own methods to resist the disease.

To fight the fungus, 250 ml of one of two medicines , Glovit or Kavach , was mixed in a barrel of water (200 litres) and sprayed over the crops. For bacterial resistance, 100–150 grams/ml of Streptomycin (powder), Kasugamycin (liquid), or Validamycin (powder) mixed in a barrel of water was applied. These methods proved effective in resisting the disease, informed the United Farmers and Producers Association, a collective of farmers.

Farmers in Karnataka managed to contain the disease by controlling pests and insects that suck the sap from ginger plants along with the fungus. Insecticides like Novacode, Gettwa, and Thakumi were applied to control pests. Farmers from Karnataka say that applying insecticides against fungus and pests separately is more effective. Applying fertilisers like amino acid, seaweed and micronutrients seven days after pesticide application helps improve the health of the plants. Insecticides meant to fight worms and fungi, mixed with water and applied at the rate of five barrels per acre, also helped check the disease. Copper fungicides and antibiotic mixtures were applied at regular intervals. UFPA office-bearers recommended limiting the use of chemical foliar fertilisers with nitrogen content after applying anti-fungal insecticides in the affected fields.

Awareness seminar
Kalpetta: An awareness seminar for farmers will be organised by the United Farmers and Producers Association in the wake of fungus infestation reports in ginger fields. The seminar will be held at Pulpally SN Balavihar Auditorium on the 27th at 2 PM, said the organisation's national chairman Emison Thomas and youth wing chairman Jobin Jose.

The seminar will also present innovative ideas in coffee and pepper farming in addition to ginger farming. Classes will be led by Kerala Agricultural University associate professor Dr Gavas Ragesh, agriculture expert Premkumar from Crystal Crop Protection Limited and Coffee Board representatives.

Things to be Noticed
Avoid visiting ginger farms affected by Pyricularia fungus, as the spores can stick to people’s clothes. Ensure proper sanitation for workers, restrict cattle from entering the fields, and isolate affected areas using shade nets.