Agri experts warn growers against bacterial leaf blight in rice crops

Business Recorder reported that agriculture experts in Faisalabad have asked rice farmers across the province to watch closely for bacterial leaf blight, a disease already seen in some early-sown crops. An Agriculture (Extension) Department spokesperson said the illness is caused by the bacterium Xanthomonas oryzae and can badly harm plants if the surrounding environment stays favourable.

Initial signs are pale, water-soaked lines on leaves, usually beginning at the tips and margins and widening over time. As the disease advances, milky exudates can appear, followed by leaves quickly drying and rotting, giving the crop a scorched look from a distance. The bacteria can survive on weeds and rice stubble, and contaminated seed is a main route of spread.

Growers were told to avoid excess nitrogen fertiliser, control pests including leaf-folders, caterpillars and grasshoppers, keep field edges free of weeds, and limit standing water to 3 inches. Where infection is found, farmers should cut out small affected patches along with healthy plants within half a metre, bury them at a safe distance, and consult local extension or pest warning staff before using any pesticide.