Farmers have been warned that prolonged waterlogging, rapid weed growth and increased pest activity during the monsoon could substantially reduce crop yields, with cotton plants particularly at risk of dying if rainwater remains in fields for more than 48 hours. A spokesman for the Agriculture (Extension) Department advised growers to take preventive measures promptly to protect standing crops from excessive rainfall and the conditions it creates.

Although monsoon rains can lower temperatures and replenish water resources, they can also leave fields waterlogged, accelerate weed growth and create favourable conditions for insect infestations, the spokesman said. The risks vary considerably between crops. Sugarcane, paddy and fodder can withstand excess water comparatively better during the rainy season, whereas cotton and vegetables are particularly vulnerable to prolonged inundation.

Farmers were therefore advised to divert surplus rainwater from sensitive fields towards sugarcane, paddy or fodder crops wherever circumstances permit. Where sugarcane or paddy fields are located close to cotton or vegetable farms, excess water should be redirected towards the more tolerant crops. If that is not possible, growers should dig drainage channels and remove standing water without delay.

Cotton requires particularly swift action. The department warned that plants may begin to die when rainwater remains in cotton fields for more than 48 hours, potentially causing a substantial reduction in output. Following heavy rainfall, growers may also need to consider growth regulators for cotton. The spokesman advised them to consult local Agriculture Extension officials before applying such products to support healthy crop development.

Waterlogging is not the only monsoon-related danger. Warm, wet conditions can trigger rapid weed growth, increasing competition with crops for nutrients, moisture and sunlight. Weeds can also provide shelter for harmful insects. Higher humidity and muggy conditions, meanwhile, create a favourable environment for sap-sucking pests, raising the likelihood of further crop damage. The department consequently urged farmers to inspect their fields frequently during the monsoon rather than waiting for visible damage to become severe. Growers who detect signs of pests or disease were advised to seek guidance immediately from local Agriculture Extension or Pest Warning staff.

Weather monitoring is another part of the recommended response. Farmers were urged to follow forecasts broadcast on radio and television and adjust irrigation and other agricultural operations to prevailing conditions. The advice places considerable emphasis on the timing of farm management. Excess water that might be tolerated by paddy or sugarcane can pose a much greater threat to cotton and vegetables, making drainage and redistribution important after heavy rainfall.

Similarly, early detection of weeds, insects and disease can allow growers to seek technical guidance before these problems cause avoidable losses. The Agriculture Extension spokesman said timely technical advice and recommended preventive measures could help safeguard production, support higher yields and improve farmers' incomes. For growers facing the monsoon, the department's message is straightforward: rainfall may replenish agricultural water supplies, but unmanaged standing water, weeds and pests can quickly turn that benefit into a threat to the harvest.