Asian Journal of Current Research

Adjustment of sowing time is an important cultural practice that can significantly reduce the incidence of several plant diseases. Systemic infection primarily affects young inflorescences and terminal leaves. It induces hypertrophy and hyperplasia, leading to abnormal swelling and distortion of affected plant parts. Floral structures become enlarged, green, and malformed, resulting in the inhibition of seed formation. The present investigation was conducted during the year 2023–24 to evaluate the influence of different sowing dates on the intensity of white rust disease in mustard caused by Albugo candida. The mustard variety Gujarat Dantiwada Mustard-4 was sown at four different dates at fortnightly intervals. The findings revealed that a delay in sowing resulted in a gradual increase in white rust severity. The crop sown during the first week of October recorded the lowest disease intensity (21.61%) along with the highest seed yield (1248 kg/ha). This was followed by sowing in the third week of October, which showed higher disease intensity (32.05%) and comparatively lower yield (1130 kg/ha). Further delay in sowing from October to November led to a significant rise in disease intensity, ultimately causing a marked reduction in seed yield. Early sowing of mustard, particularly during the first week of October, is regarded as an effective agronomic strategy for minimising the incidence of white rust disease and enhancing crop yield. This is primarily attributed to the prevailing environmental conditions during this period, which are generally unfavourable for pathogen development at the crop’s most susceptible growth stages, thereby reducing disease pressure and associated yield losses.