The panicle-necked rice blast, commonly known as "hanging neck and neck ridge," is one of the most serious diseases affecting rice in our county during the later growth stages. Last year, this disease caused significant losses in several towns and villages. Currently, the problem is more severe in Hayabusa and high-quality conventional rice varieties. In areas prone to rice blast, hybrid rice varieties such as Ganyou 725, Gangyou 177, and Fengyou Xiangzhan have already shown symptoms of leaf blast, which has created a large reservoir of pathogens for the development of panicle blast. Therefore, all localities must take this issue seriously, improve their working attitudes, overcome complacency, and implement strong measures to control the spread of the disease and ensure a bountiful rice harvest.
**First, the current situation and forecast**
It is estimated that this year’s panicle blast will be moderately severe with localized outbreaks, covering an area of about 50,000 mu.
**Factors contributing to the outbreak:**
1. **Low resistance in rice varieties:** None of the rice varieties currently cultivated in our county have strong resistance to rice blast, creating a favorable environment for the disease to develop. Field investigations show that the incidence of rice blast is increasing, and with many susceptible varieties widely planted, it has become a major source of infection.
2. **High pathogen load:** Last year, the disease was widespread and caused heavy damage. A large amount of infected rice straw remained in the fields. According to surveys, the seed infection rate averaged 6.9%, while the straw infection rate reached 10.1%, providing ideal conditions for the spread of the disease.
3. **Heavy leafhopper infestation:** Yexian County is currently experiencing a severe outbreak, with 16 towns affected over 8,000 mu. This has led to a significant buildup of pathogens in the fields, increasing the risk of late-stage panicle blast.
4. **Favorable weather conditions:** According to meteorological forecasts, increased rainfall in July will further promote the occurrence and spread of panicle and neck blast.
**Second, prevention and control recommendations**
1. **Timing of control measures:** The tillering and booting stages are the most vulnerable periods for rice. When temperatures are between 20–30°C (especially 24–28°C) and humidity is above 90%, especially under cloudy and rainy weather, panicle blast is most likely to occur. Since this disease is preventable but not curable once it occurs, timely intervention is crucial. The best time for treatment is from the jointing stage to the early heading stage (before 10% of the ears emerge). In southern towns like Zhonghe and Luodu, control should begin in late June to early July, while other areas should start at the end of July to mid-July. For key plots such as experimental fields, disease-prone areas, and seed production bases, a second application should be made 5–7 days after the first, but no later than the heading stage to ensure effectiveness.
2. **Focus on high-risk areas:** Areas where panicle blast frequently occurs, along with regions where leaf blast is present or where susceptible varieties are planted, should be prioritized for control efforts.
3. **Pesticide use and dosage:** Apply 75% Fengdeng at 20–30 grams per mu, or 40% Fuji No. 1 at 100 ml per mu, mixed with 45–50 kg of water for standard spraying.
**Third, important notes**
1. **Stick to preventive measures:** Strictly follow the recommended timing for pesticide application. Applying the spray during the jointing stage is critical for success, while applying it too late during full heading may result in poor outcomes.
2. **Avoid spraying during rain or high wind.**
3. **Use sufficient amounts of both medicine and water, and ensure even coverage on the ear layer.**
4. **If it rains during the treatment period, apply the pesticide immediately after the rain stops, once the dew has dried.**
(Yuechi County Plant Protection Station)
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