Survey Of Fusarium Root Rot Of Pea In Satara District

Abstract

Fusarium root rot disease, caused by the soil-borne pathogen Fusarium solani, poses a significant threat to pea cultivation in Satara, Maharashtra. This study presents an extensive survey of Fusarium root rot incidence, severity, and management practices in the region. Through rigorous field surveys conducted across 100 pea farms, laboratory analyses of 2000 plant samples, and detailed interviews with 300 local farmers, we identified the prevalence of the disease, its impact on yield and quality, and the effectiveness of current management strategies. Our findings reveal that 47% of surveyed farms reported Fusarium root rot incidence, with an average Disease Severity Index of 3.4 on a 5-point scale. Affected farms experienced yield reductions of 18-35% and significant decreases in fruit quality, with economic losses estimated at 150,000-400,000  per hectare. While chemical treatments and crop rotation are commonly employed, their effectiveness varies considerably. Integrated disease management practices showed the most promise in reducing disease severity, with a 40% reduction in DSI compared to conventional methods. This study highlights critical factors contributing to disease spread, including climate variables, soil characteristics, and farming practices. We propose a comprehensive set of recommendations for improved disease management, aiming to enhance pea production and economic outcomes for farmers in Satara.