Which of the following is a practice that can help minimize the incidence of stalk rots?

Using hybrid varieties with good stalk strength is an effective practice to minimize the incidence of stalk rots. Stronger stalks tend to be more resilient against diseases and environmental stresses that can lead to stalk rots. Certain hybrid varieties are specifically bred for traits such as enhanced structural integrity and disease resistance, which can significantly reduce the likelihood of stalk rots occurring.

In addition, robust stalk strength can prevent mechanical breakage and collapse, especially under adverse weather conditions, thereby maintaining plant health and vigor. This not only helps in disease prevention but also supports the overall yield potential of the crop.

While practices like reducing irrigation can play a role in managing moisture levels which affect rot, and crop rotation is beneficial for managing pests and diseases in general, the direct use of strong hybrid varieties provides a focused approach to tackling stalk rots specifically. Random planting intervals generally do not contribute positively to disease management and can lead to other issues.