Tikka leaf spot and rust are the two most economically damaging diseases in groundnut cultivation. Together they can cause yield losses of 50–70% if left uncontrolled.
Tikka Leaf Spot (Early and Late)
Early leaf spot: small, circular, dark brown spots on the upper leaf surface with a yellow halo. Late leaf spot: darker spots appearing predominantly on the lower leaf surface under humid conditions.
Conditions that Favour Tikka
- Relative humidity above 80%
- Temperatures between 20–30°C
- Prolonged leaf wetness (more than 10 hours)
- Dense canopy with poor air circulation
Rust (Puccinia arachidis)
Orange-brown powdery pustules on the lower leaf surface. Under heavy infection, leaves turn brown and drop prematurely — causing severe pod fill failure.
Key difference: Tikka spots have a yellow halo on upper surfaces. Rust pustules are orange, powdery, and appear primarily on leaf undersides.
Integrated Management
1. Choose Resistant Varieties
Pragati Super 24 has high tolerance to Tikka and root rot. Pragati Super 32 has broad resistance to both Tikka and Rust — your first and most powerful line of defence.
2. Fungicide Schedule
| Spray | Timing | Fungicide | Dose |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st | 30–35 DAS | Mancozeb 75 WP | 2.5 g/L |
| 2nd | 45–50 DAS | Chlorothalonil 75 WP | 2 g/L |
| 3rd | 60–65 DAS | Hexaconazole 5 EC | 1 mL/L |