Sugarcane smut disease

Caused by: Ustilago scitaminea
Problem Category: Fungal Disease
Symptoms: Stunted growth of sugarcane stools; profuse production of tillers; shortened internodes; stems thin with narrow, erect leaves; black whip-like structure emerging from terminal bud
Comments: Disease transmitted through infected setts and by wind
Management: The disease can be successfully controlled by planting varieties of sugarcane which are resistant to the disease; disease can usually be eliminated from seed pieces by hot water treatment prior to planting; infected plants should be removed
Control: Spray 3% panchagavya to control the smut diseases