Peas, also known as Dutch beans or golden beans, have become increasingly popular in cultivation. However, with the expansion of planting periods and the growing area, pests and diseases have become more severe. The primary issues include powdery mildew, root rot, and the soybean aphid—especially the latter, which is particularly hard to detect. Farmers often fail to recognize the problem early, leading to inadequate or improper control measures. This results in lower yields, reduced income, and in some cases, entire fields being abandoned. Therefore, an integrated approach to pest and disease management is essential for sustainable pea farming.
**Main Pests and Diseases**
1. **Powdery Mildew**: Caused by the fungus *Erysiphe pisi*, this disease primarily affects the leaves, stems, and pods. Initially, small yellowish spots appear on the upper surface of the leaves, which then expand into irregular, white powdery patches. As the infection progresses, the white layer spreads to the stems and pods, causing yellowing, wilting, and eventually, the formation of black spores. The disease typically starts from the lower leaves and moves upward, especially during flowering. It thrives in humid conditions, but even dry weather can lead to serious outbreaks.
2. **Root Rot**: Caused by *Fusarium solani*, this disease attacks the roots and rhizomes, leading to yellowing of the lower leaves that gradually spreads upward. Infected plants become stunted, with reduced pod production and thin grains. The roots show discoloration, and the vascular tissue turns brown or reddish. Root rot can occur throughout the growing season but is most common during flowering. The pathogen survives in the soil and spreads through infected seeds or crop residues. Warm temperatures (24–33°C) and continuous cropping increase the risk.
3. **Soybean Aphid (Blackfly)**: This pest affects various legumes and has overlapping generations. The larvae bore into the stems, damaging the pith and xylem, and later create exit holes for metamorphosis. Affected plants show yellowing leaves, hollow stems, and premature leaf drop. In severe cases, the plant dies due to blocked nutrient flow. Seedling damage can stunt growth and make plants more susceptible to other diseases like root rot. Many farmers mistake aphid damage for root rot, leading to incorrect pesticide use and missed control opportunities.
**Integrated Pest and Disease Management**
1. **Use Resistant Varieties**: Choosing resistant pea varieties, such as fine peas over shelling peas, can significantly reduce disease pressure.
2. **Crop Rotation**: Avoid planting peas in the same field consecutively. Rotate with non-leguminous crops like melons or grasses to break the disease cycle.
3. **Seed Treatment**: Treat seeds with fungicides like 0.3% thiophanate-methyl or a mixture of carbendazim and chlorothalonil. Apply the treatment and let the seeds rest for 48–72 hours before sowing.
4. **Field Management**: Ensure proper fertilization, avoid waterlogged areas, and use raised beds or sorghum intercropping. Increase phosphorus and potassium application while limiting nitrogen to improve plant resistance.
5. **Remove Diseased Plants**:åŠæ—¶ remove and destroy infected plants, straw, and root pods to reduce disease and pest sources.
6. **Chemical Control**: For aphids, focus on seedling stages using 1.8% avermectin EC at 2000 times dilution or 50% phoxim EC at 1000 times. During flowering, treat root rot with 50% carbendazim WP at 600 times or copper-based products. For powdery mildew, apply sulfur suspension or triadimefon at appropriate rates. Repeat applications every 7–10 days for 3–4 cycles. If both aphids and mildew are present, use 1.8% Qi Qi Su EC for effective control.
By implementing these strategies, farmers can better manage pea pests and diseases, ensuring higher productivity and sustainable farming practices.
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