Preventing and managing diseases in mung beans require a combination of cultural, biological, and chemical strategies. Farmers should adopt integrated pest management practices that emphasize preventive measures, such as selecting disease-resistant varieties, implementing crop rotation, and maintaining proper field hygiene. Regular scouting for symptoms and early detection of diseases are essential for timely intervention and minimizing yield losses. By employing a holistic approach to disease management, farmers can safeguard their mung bean crops and ensure optimal productivity and quality.

Mung beans, scientifically known as Vigna radiata, are one of the most popular legumes consumed worldwide. They are highly nutritious, easy to cultivate, and play a significant role in various cuisines, particularly in Asian and Indian dishes. However, like any crop, mung beans are susceptible to a range of diseases that can significantly impact their growth, yield, and quality. Understanding these diseases is crucial for farmers and agricultural practitioners to implement effective management strategies and ensure a successful harvest.

Here, we delve into some of the common diseases that afflict mung beans:

1. Powdery Mildew (Erysiphe polygoni):

• Symptoms: Powdery mildew appears as white powdery patches on the leaves, stems, and pods of mung bean plants. As the disease progresses, the affected parts may become distorted and eventually die.
• Management: Cultural practices such as maintaining proper spacing between plants to improve air circulation, avoiding overhead irrigation, and timely application of fungicides can help control powdery mildew.

2. Angular Leaf Spot (Pseudomonas syringae pv. syringae):

• Symptoms: Angular leaf spot manifests as small, water-soaked lesions on the leaves, which later turn brown and develop angular shapes. In severe cases, the lesions may coalesce, leading to defoliation and reduced photosynthetic activity.
• Management: Crop rotation, removal of infected plant debris, and application of copper-based fungicides can help manage angular leaf spot. Additionally, practicing proper irrigation techniques and avoiding overhead watering can reduce the spread of the disease.

3. Bacterial Blight (Xanthomonas axonopodis pv. phaseoli):

• Symptoms: Bacterial blight causes water-soaked lesions on the leaves, which later turn necrotic and develop a characteristic angular shape. Infected plants may exhibit wilting and stunted growth.
• Management: Planting disease-resistant varieties, avoiding overhead irrigation, and maintaining proper field hygiene are essential for managing bacterial blight. Copper-based bactericides can also be applied preventively to reduce disease incidence.

4. Bean Common Mosaic Virus (BCMV):

• Symptoms: Bean common mosaic virus causes mottling, yellowing, and distortion of leaves in mung bean plants. Infected plants may exhibit reduced vigor, stunted growth, and decreased yield.
• Management: Planting virus-free seeds, controlling aphid vectors, and removing infected plants promptly can help prevent the spread of BCMV. There are no chemical treatments available for viral diseases, so focus should be on preventive measures.

5. Root Rot (Rhizoctonia solani, Fusarium spp.):

• Symptoms: Root rot is characterized by wilting, yellowing, and eventual death of mung bean plants. The roots may appear darkened, decayed, and water-soaked.
• Management: Improving soil drainage, practicing crop rotation, and avoiding overwatering can help prevent root rot. Fungicide treatments may be necessary in severe cases, but cultural practices are the cornerstone of management.