Cases of leaf blast have been reported in Texas rice farms earlier than usual, according to AgFax.
Farmers found the disease on Vialone Nano rice—an Italian semifino (medium-grain) rice variety—in China, Jefferson County on May 17, which is the earliest it has been found in the last five years.
An aiding factor for the disease is the mild temperatures with extended periods of rainfall or cloudy conditions.
Farmers are urged to be proactive to prevent or minimize the losses caused by leaf blast.
The best tips rice farmers can follow are:
1. Scout fields for the presence of leaf blast at least weekly until the heading stage. Timely detection of rice blast is critical.
2. Maintain a 4- to 6-inch continuous flood to reduce the damage caused by this disease.
3. Carefully time fungicide applications. If a single application is made, it should be applied at the heading stage (50 percent to 70 percent heads emerging from the boot).
If you believe leaf blast is in your field, contact Dr. Shane Zhou at xzhou@aesrg.tamu.edu or 409-752 2741, ext. 2225.
Click here more information about leaf blast disease and its management.