DHARMAPURI: Farmers in Dharmapuri expressed concern as tuberose (sampangi) crop is affected by mealy bug pest attack and the root disease ‘pneumatodes’. ‘Tuberose’ commonly known as ‘Sampangi’ is cultivated in an area of over 2,00 hectares across the district. Farmers stated that over the past few weeks, the crop has been stunted by pest attack and root disease.
Speaking to TNIE, P Thangaraj from Kadagathur said, “Though Sampangi always fetches decent prices and its cultivation is extremely cost-effective, many farmers are reconsidering their decision to pursue Sampangi, due to the stunted growth caused by mealybugs and Pneumatode disease.”
Another farmer, R Murugan from Palacode said, “Last week I bought a medicine for Pneumatode for Rs 4,500. But it has been ineffective and the pesticide shops are recommending us to purchase even more expensive medicine. Hence we urge the Horticulture department to issue guidelines on ways to control the root infection.”
However, staff in a private flower market near Dharmapuri said that the price is stable. As of right now Sampangi is sold between Rs 50 and 60 and it is a normal range, they said. Commenting on the issue, Deputy Director of Horticulture G Malini said, “There is no cause for concern, pneumatodes can be easily resolved with simple crop rotation. But before this, we must identify which type of pneumatode is affecting the plant. We will conduct a study and based on the report we will issue chemical recommendations.”
Regarding the Mealy bug infestation, there is not much infection reported in the district. Farmers need only ensure that mealy bugs are washed away from the plant leaves and stalks. They do not cause much impact on flowering plants, she added.