Black Scurf of Potato

• This disease occurrence is common both in hills and plains.
• There are two phases of disease -

1. Stem Canker phase: The sprouts are killed before they emerge and this delays the germination resulting in loss of yield. The canker may cause wilting of the plants also.
2. Black Scurf phase: Appearance of black crust on the tubers which reduces their acceptability to the consumers.

 

   

 

 

Control Measures

1. The seed tubers should be treated before sowing. Method of treatment is given under heading seed treatment.
2. Soil can be treated with Brassicol at the rate of 20 - 30 kg per hectare. Combination of seed and soil treatment gives the best control of the disease.