Survey and Assessment of Fungicides and Botanicals against Southern Corn Leaf Blight of Maize in Kashmir

Background: Maize (Zea mays L.) is an important cereal crop in Kashmir temperate zones, used for both human consumption and cattle feed. Southern Corn Leaf Blight (SCLB) caused by Bipolaris maydis is an emerging concern for maize cultivation in the Kashmir Valley. This disease poses a substantial threat to maize farming in this region which is need for disease surveillance and management strategies.The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence and severity of SCLB in Kashmir as well as to investigate the efficacy of various fungicides and botanicals against B. maydis under in vitro conditions. Methods: To document the disease incidence and severity, survey was carried out in six districts of Kashmir during the kharif seasons of 2022 and 2023. The antifungal efficacy of botanical extracts along with systemic and non-systemic fungicides were evaluated against B. maydis under laboratory conditions. Result: Field surveys during kharif season of 2022 and 2023 across six districts showed significant variability in disease incidence and severity which is influenced by temperature, humidity and altitude. The highest disease incidence (18.3%) and severity (15.6%) were recorded in Anantnag and Budgam districts of Kashmir, respectively, while Baramulla showed the lowest incidence (4.16%). Among systemic fungicides, Propiconazole exhibited the highest efficacy and when combined with Carbendazim, recorded 100% mycelial growth inhibition. Mancozeb, a non-systemic fungicide, also showed strong inhibition activity up to 93.4% at 500 ppm. Hexaconazole was the least effective among the systemics, especially at lower concentrations. Botanical extracts were also tested for antifungal potential. Turmeric (Curcuma longa) at 20% concentration exhibited the highest inhibition (93.44%) due to its active compounds like curcuminoids.