Brown Leaf Spot is a seed borne rice disease and when it attacks rice fields it results into low yields mostly in irrigated fields leading to low profits thus negatively affecting farmers income.
The disease affects seeds, leaves, stems as well as grains thus early detection is and application of control mechanisms is very beneficial. Additionally, brown leaf spot is a fungal disease and causes leaf discolouration and brown spots. Usually the disease is caused due to improper land preparation practices.
Disease spread
The brown spot leaf disease usually spreads through infected seeds hence it is highly recommended to use certified seeds. Furthermore, always ensure seed treatment by soaking in Luke warm water or fungicide solution before planting as this allows seed protection.
Disease management
Ensure proper land preparation by levelling, to prevent water stagnation and avoid weeds that compete for plant nutrients. Additionally, plant using certified seeds every season from certified agricultural dealers. Also keep rice field free from weeds to prevent disease spread and always use balanced plant nutrition after soil sampling to ensure proper crop growth. Furthermore, irrigate rice fields and regularly monitor rice fields to easily identify the affected crops. Lastly, remove and destroy affected crops as well as applying the recommended fungicides.
