Explore essential practices and knowledge for managing fungal diseases in cumin crops. This quiz covers symptoms, prevention strategies, treatments, and identification of major pathogens affecting cumin.
What is the most noticeable early symptom of powdery mildew infection in cumin crops?
Explanation: Early powdery mildew infection appears as white, powder-like growths on the surfaces of leaves. Black specks on stems are not characteristic of this disease. Yellowing of the whole plant may indicate nutrient deficiency or another problem. Holes in cumin seeds suggest insect damage, not fungal infection.
To minimize the risk of Fusarium wilt in cumin, which cultural practice is most effective?
Explanation: Crop rotation with non-host species disrupts the life cycle of Fusarium, reducing disease buildup. Heavy nitrogen use can encourage soft, disease-prone growth. Growing cumin repeatedly in the same field favors pathogen accumulation. Watering at midday can worsen foliar diseases due to leaf wetness.
Which category of fungicides is commonly recommended for controlling downy mildew in cumin?
Explanation: Systemic fungicides are absorbed and move within the plant, offering protection against downy mildew. Herbicides target weeds, not fungi. Insecticides control insect pests, and rodenticides are designed to kill rodents, not fungi.
Why is treating cumin seeds with fungicides before sowing important?
Explanation: Fungicidal seed treatments protect seedlings from seed- and soil-borne pathogens, lowering infection rates. The treatment does not directly improve germination in drought, protect from birds, or accelerate maturity; those are unrelated benefits.
Alternaria blight in cumin is caused by a pathogen that primarily infects which plant part?
Explanation: Alternaria blight commonly attacks leaves and umbels, leading to brown lesions and reduced yield. While roots and seeds can be affected under severe disease, the primary infection site is foliage and umbels. 'Stem bark' is not a typical site for this blight.