Over 610 hectares of rice fields are infected with rice blast disease.

According to information from the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, field inspections have revealed that over 610 hectares of rice fields in the province are infected with rice blast disease, appearing in almost all rice-growing areas. Specifically, Hai Lang district has 395 hectares, Gio Linh 145 hectares, Vinh Linh 25 hectares, etc. The disease prevalence rate ranges from 10% to 20%, with some areas reaching over 40%. The disease mainly affects rice varieties such as BDR57, Bac Thom No. 7, HC95, IR38..., and is most severe in densely sown fields and those with excessive nitrogen fertilization.

Forecasts indicate that the weather will continue to be cloudy with drizzle, high humidity, and foggy nights and early mornings. Furthermore, the current healthy growth of the rice plants will create very favorable conditions for the continued development and spread of rice blast disease, causing severe damage and burning on susceptible varieties and in fields with unbalanced fertilization, particularly with excess nitrogen.

To effectively control and prevent the spread of rice blast disease, the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development requests that the People's Committees of districts, towns, and cities direct specialized agencies to strengthen field inspections, guide farmers on technical measures for caring for and controlling rice blast disease; and urge the People's Committees of communes, wards, and townships to promptly direct cooperatives and farmers to implement technical measures according to the guidance of specialized agencies.

Intensify inspections and promptly spray pesticides as soon as the disease rate reaches approximately 5%. In severely affected areas, a second spraying should be done 5-7 days after the first.

Simultaneously increase water levels and stop applying all fertilizers until the disease stops developing. Spray fungicide to prevent rice blast disease 5-7 days before the rice heads, especially in areas already infected with leaf blast, outbreak areas, fields with excessive nitrogen fertilization, and areas where susceptible seeds are sown.

Le An

Source