Intense cold, dense fog threaten Boro seedbeds and potato crops

Highlights:

• Lack of sunlight for 3 days can trigger potato late blight.
• Boro seedlings may fail to grow, reducing quality and yield
• Fungicide spraying recommended to prevent crop damage
• Experts advise maintaining 3-5cm water in seedbeds
• Balanced organic fertiliser and urea may reduce risk

Severe cold and dense fog have gripped much of Bangladesh and is expected to continue for several days, causing concern among farmers over Boro seedbeds and potato crops. 

Experts said prolonged low temperatures and thick fog can make crops more susceptible to diseases, potentially reducing yield and quality. 

They added that if sunlight is absent for three consecutive days, potato fields may develop late blight disease, which can kill plants. Besides, Boro seedbeds are also at risk from seedling blight.

Abu Noman Faruq Ahmed, plant pathology professor at Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University, said the current weather is unfavourable for both potatoes and boro seedbeds. 

"Tubers are forming now, making the period critical and infection at this stage could sharply reduce yield" he told The Business Standard. 

He added that regular fungicide spraying is essential. "Boro seedlings may fail to grow properly, affecting quality. Sudden weather changes could severely impact both crops and other vegetables."

According to the Department of Agricultural Extension, this season's boro seedbed cultivation target is 2,48,000 hectares, with about 70% already planted. Potato planting aims to cover 4,67,000 hectares, with roughly 87% already sown by farmers.

Abdul Hamid, a farmer from Fenigram in Shibganj, Bogura, said he suffered losses in potatoes last year, so he planted on two acres this season but no sunlight has reached the fields for a week. 

"I am spraying regularly, but unsure of results. Overall production costs keep rising," he said, adding that boro seedbeds are also under threat, as damaged seedlings would lower yield.

Meteorological Department data show that dense fog and intense cold have prevailed across the country, reducing the difference between maximum and minimum temperatures, heightening the sensation of cold. Sunlight scarcity has kept the soil from warming, worsening the chill.

Meteorologist Shahnaz Sultana told TBS that Monday saw thick fog all day, with minimal sunlight. Fog will continue Tuesday, and cold will persist for another two to three days before easing slightly. 

"Another cold wave may strike after 6 January," Shahnaz forecasted.

Experts advise maintaining 3-5cm of water in seedbeds

To mitigate risks, agricultural agencies are advising farmers on preventive measures. 

A weekly bulletin from Bangladesh Rice Research Institute (BRRI) highlighted the risk of seedling blight in cold weather. Infected seedlings, roots, and lower stem parts turn brown, with white fungal growth sometimes visible. Growth slows, leaves yellow and dry, and seedlings may die.

BRRI's Agromet Lab head Niyaz Md Farhat Rahman said cold slows seedling growth and increases vulnerability to seedling blight and thrips. 

"Maintaining 3-5cm of water in seedbeds helps regulate soil temperature. Balanced application of organic fertiliser and urea promotes healthy seedlings," he said. 

He advised farmers to monitor seedbeds closely and consult agricultural officers or BRRI call centres if problems arise. "BRRI provides timely advice based on field observations and weather forecasts to safeguard boro production under adverse conditions."

Meanwhile, the Department of Agricultural Extension has issued warnings about late blight in potatoes. Officers advise spraying approved fungicides such as mancozeb every 7-10 days. 

Director of Field Services Md Obaidur Rahman Mondal added, "We are providing farmers with guidance and support to prevent disease and minimise losses."