IIHR’s Arka Shakti root stock could help farmers tackle Gummy Stem Blight disease in watermelon
Researchers at the Indian Institute of Horticultural Research have developed the Arka Shakti rootstock, which shows promise in reducing Gummy Stem Blight in watermelon. The disease often spreads in soils where watermelon is repeatedly grown without rotation. Field trials suggest the new rootstock can improve plant health and yield, offering farmers a potential tool for disease management.