Poka Boeng Disease in Sugarcane

Poka Boeng is a serious disease of sugarcane that can become more severe under conditions of excessive moisture, frequent irrigation, and humid weather. The disease may appear as cut-like, notch-like, or knife-shaped lesions on the joints and other parts of the sugarcane stalk. It can also damage the leaves, producing visible cuts and lesions. The affected portions gradually become weak, and as the stalk loses strength, strong winds or other environmental pressure may cause the cane to break and fall. At present, there is no specific and universally recommended market treatment for Poka Boeng. Therefore, prevention and proper crop management are very important. Avoid unnecessary or excessive irrigation, particularly when the soil already has sufficient moisture. Irrigate according to the actual water requirement of the crop rather than following a fixed schedule every few days. Maintain proper field drainage and avoid prolonged waterlogging. Regularly inspect the crop, especially along field boundaries and areas where the disease first appears, and remove severely affected plant material where appropriate. Proper fertilizer and nutrient management should also be maintained to keep the crop healthy and strengthen the plants against environmental stress. Preventive Measures Avoid unnecessary and excessive irrigation. Irrigate only when the crop and soil conditions require water. Maintain proper drainage and prevent prolonged moisture or waterlogging. Regularly inspect field boundaries and affected areas for early symptoms. Maintain balanced fertilizer and nutrient management. Remove and properly manage severely affected plant material to reduce further spread.