Managing Sorghum Shoot Bugs: A Comprehensive Guide to Crop Protection
Sorghum is a major crop in many parts of the world, which is grown for food and fodder purposes. However, like all crops, sorghum is susceptible to damage from a range of pests, including the sorghum shoot bug. Although sorghum shoot bug is a sporadic pest, under favorable conditions it can produce several generations and cause significant damage to sorghum crops. The warm and humid climate favors the growth and development of sorghum shoot bugs.
The adult sorghum shoot bug can be identified by its yellowish brown to dark brown color with translucent wings. The female shoot bug lays group of eggs inside the sorghum leaf tissue that are covered with white waxy substance causing damage to plants.
Type of Infestation
Sorghum shoot bugs are a type of sap feeder, which feeds on the sap of the sorghum plants.
Scientific Name:Peregrinus maidis
Most Affected States Due to Sorghum Shoot Bug
The sorghum shoot bug is a major pest of sorghum in many states in India, including Maharashtra, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Tamil Nadu, and Madhya Pradesh.
Symptoms of Sorghum Shoot Bug
Both nymphs and adults of sorghum shoot bug suck the sap from plants.
The leaves of the infected plants dry out starting from the top and gradually wither downwards.
The infested leaves may also have sooty mould growth, which is a result of the honeydew excreted by shoot bugs.
The affected plants exhibit stunted growth and become unhealthy, causing them to turn yellow.
The egg laying activity of sorghum shoot bugs can cause the midrib of the leaves to turn red, which may eventually dry up.
In case of severe infestation, plant growth may twist the leaves and inhibit panicle emergence.
Sorghum Shoot Bug Control Measures
Sorghum shoot bugs can be controlled by practicing Integrated Pest Management methods which includes cultural, mechanical, biological and chemical measures.
Cultural Measures
Crop rotation can be done to reduce the pest populations.
Remove weeds and other plant debris from the sorghum field.
Proper fertilization and irrigation practices can help ensure that the crop is healthy and can better withstand insect attacks.
Sorghum Shoot Bug Biological Measures
Release natural predators such as Coccinella septumpunctatum, Menochilus sexmaculatus, Geocoris tricolor and egg parasitoids like Paranagrus optabilis,Octetrastichus indicus to control sorghum shoot bugs.
Greenpeace Neemol Bio Neem Oil Insecticide contains neem-based products azadirachtin which when used at the rate of 1-2 ml per liter of water with 15days interval between each spray can effectively control shoot bugs in sorghum fields.
Amruth Alestra Liquid (Bio Insecticide) contains strains of naturally occurring entomopathogenic fungus Verticillium lecanii which comes in contact with the cuticle of the shoot bugs and colonizes them. The recommended dosage is 2ml per liter of water.
Mechanical Measures
Collect and destroy the infected plant parts.
Tapas Yellow Sticky Traps can be placed around the edges of field to capture adult sorghum shoot bugs. For an acre place 4-6 yellow sticky traps for effective trapping.
Sorghum Shoot Bug Chemical Measures
Commercial chemicals for controlling sorghum shoot bug includes,
Don’t Let Sorghum Leaf Roller Roll Over Your Crops: Integrated Management Strategies
If you are a farmer or someone involved in agriculture, you may be familiar with sorghum leaf rollers, a pest that can cause significant damage to sorghum crops. If you are currently dealing with this pest, it’s important to take action to protect your fields and ensure that your yields are not affected. There are several effective strategies that can help you manage sorghum leaf rollers and minimize the damage they cause. This article will provide you with detailed information on how to deal with sorghum leaf rollers, including its integrated management methods.
The female moth lays eggs on the underside of sorghum leaves, and the eggs hatch into small caterpillars within a few days. The larval or nymphal stage of the pest is the most damaging, as the caterpillars feed on the sorghum leaves and roll them. The pupal stage of the pest is spent inside the rolled leaves, and the adult moth emerges after about two weeks. High humidity and shady areas favor the development of leaf rollers.
Type of Infestation
The sorghum leaf roller infests sorghum crops by feeding on the leaves and rolling them up to form a shelter for themselves. This type of infestation is known as rolling or folding.
Scientific Name: Marasmia trapezalis
Most Affected States
The sorghum leaf roller is most commonly found in the states of Maharashtra, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Tamil Nadu and Madhya Pradesh.
Symptoms of Sorghum Leaf Roller
The most common symptoms of infestation include:
The larva of sorghum leaf roller feed on the leaves and roll them up to form a shelter for themselves.
Infested leaves exhibit longitudinal patches, particularly near the tips.
The tip of the leaves become dry.
Sorghum Leaf Roller Control Measures
If you are worried about these sorghum leaf roller infestations, you should consider an integrated management strategy to control the pest population. Here are some effective measures that can help control sorghum leaf rollers:
Sorghum Leaf Roller Cultural Measures
Crop rotation can be followed to control sorghum leaf roller population.
Remove weeds and other plant debris.
Avoid using excessive amount of nitrogenous fertilizers.
Maintain good plant health through proper irrigation, fertilization and soil management practices to reduce the susceptibility of the sorghum plant to the pest.
Mechanical Measures
Hand picking of rolled leaves and destroying them is the easiest way to control leaf roller damage.
Sorghum Leaf Roller Biological Control
Release an egg parasitoid, Trichogramma chilonis in sorghum field to control the sorghum leaf roller population.
Ecotin Insecticide is a neem based biological insecticide containing Azadirachtin, which can be used effectively to control leaf rollers on sorghum plants. The recommended dosage is 0.4 – 0.7ml per liter of water.
Katyayani Organic Larvicide contains Bacillus thuringiensis which produces protein that blocks the digestive system of the insect and kills them. The recommended dosage is 10ml per liter of water.
Sorghum Leaf Roller Chemical Measures
If the infestation is severe, commercial insecticides can be used to control the sorghum leaf roller population. Here are some commonly used insecticides for controlling leaf rollers:
Therefore, sorghum leaf rollers can cause significant damage to sorghum crops if not managed properly. By following the above-mentioned integrated strategies, you can prevent the sorghum leaf roller from rolling over your crops.
DISCOVER MORE :Battle Of The Bugs: A Guide For Managing Sorghum Ear Head Bug
Spodoptera frugiperda, commonly known as the Fall Armyworm (FAW) is one of the most important invasive pests worldwide, causing considerable losses to its host crops. It is considered to be a serious pest which feeds on more than 80 crop species. Next to maize, sorghum is the most affected crop by fall armyworm. It is a major pest of sorghum crops and can cause severe damage to the crop if not controlled in time. In this article, we will explore the different methods of integrated pest management that can be used to control sorghum fall army worms.
The life cycle of a fall armyworm consists of four stages: egg, larva, pupa and adult. The larva or nymphal stage is the most damaging stage of the pest. Initially larvae are green in color, but as they grow, they become brown with longitudinal stripes. Inverted “Y” shaped marking can be seen on the face of the mature larva. Cool, wet and spring weather favours the growth and development of fall armyworm.
Type of Infestation
Sorghum army worm infestation can be classified into two types: sporadic and epidemic. Sporadic infestations occur in isolated areas and are generally not widespread. Epidemic infestations, on the other hand, are widespread and can cause significant damage to the crop by feeding on all parts of the plant.
Scientific Name: Spodoptera frugiperda
Most Affected States
The pest is found throughout the country, but the most affected states are Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu and Telangana.
Symptoms of Sorghum Fall Army Worm
The damaging symptoms of Sorghum army worm infestation are as follows:
Elongated papery windows: Initially larvae of sorghum fall armyworm feeds on leaf tissues, leaving only a thin translucent layer of tissue intact known as window feeding.
Ragged edged leaves: As the larva grows, its feeding habits result in the development of ragged edged holes on the leaves that vary in shape from round to oblong.
The larvae of sorghum FAW excrete a large amount of frass, which can accumulate on the leaves.
Severe infestation of sorghum fall armyworm can result in defoliation.
They can also damage the reproductive parts of the sorghum plant.
Control Measures
A combination of different control measures is often important to effectively manage fall armyworm infestation in sorghum plants. The following are some of the commonly used IPM practices for controlling fall armyworm,
Sorghum Fall Army Worm Cultural Measures
Deep summer ploughing of fields exposes larvae and pupa of sorghum fall armyworm, which are located in the soil, to birds and high temperatures.
Crop rotation with non-host crops helps to reduce the fall armyworm population.
Early planting can avoid peak populations of sorghum fall armyworm.
Removing the weeds and other debris can reduce the incidence of armyworms.
Harvesting early can avoid consistent damage.
Proper nutrition management, including balanced fertilization and irrigation can also help to reduce the susceptibility of sorghum plants to fall armyworm attacks.
Physical Measures
Light Traps play a major role in trapping adult fall armyworm insects. Install Farmoguard Solar Light Trap in the sorghum fields at the rate of one per acre.
Mechanical Measures
Handpicking and destroying egg masses and larvae by crushing or immersing in kerosene water can reduce FAW damage.
After the detection of FAW infestation in the field, the affected sorghum plants can be treated by applying dry sand to the affected whorl.
Release egg parasitoids like Trichogramma pretiosum or Telenomus remus at the rate of 50,000 per acre at weekly intervals to control the fall armyworm population.
Erect bird perches to encourage insectivorous birds.
Apply Econeem Plus Bio pesticide containing Azadirachtin at the rate of 3ml per litre as oviposition deterrent on one week after sowing.
Katyayani Organic Larvicide contains Bacillus thuringiensis which produces protein that blocks the digestive system of the insect and kills them. The recommended dosage is 10ml per liter of water.
Anand Dr. Bacto’s Brave is an ecofriendly biological insecticide containing Beauveria bassiana which effectively controls fall armyworms. The recommended dosage is 2.5ml per liter of water.
Chemical Measures
Chemical measures include the application of commercial insecticides to control sorghum fall armyworm. Insecticides that can be used to control fall armyworm are mentioned below,
Note: Poison Baiting can effectively kill late instar larvae. To prepare the bait, a mixture of 10 kg of rice bran and 2 kg of jaggery should be left to ferment in 2-3 litres of water for 24 hours. Half an hour before application in the field, 100 g of Thiodicarb should be added to the mixture. The bait should then be applied to the whorl of the plants.
Explore more about Sorghum Shoot Fly: An Integrated Pest Management Guide–CLICK HERE
The summer season has already arrived. Are you waiting for your much anticipated mango harvest? Beware farmers! Don’t let fruit flies hinder your mango yield and diminish your profits. With the fruit being the economically valuable part of this crop, it is crucial that you protect it from the pests. Fruit fly (Bactroceradorsalis), is a serious pest of mango, especially during fruit development and fruit ripening stage. They can infest a significant portion of the fruit, leading to reduced quality and market value. On average, fruit fly infestation can cause yield losses of around 25 – 30%. However, in severe cases, it can cause up to 90% loss. So, take proactive steps by early detection, prevention and management as guided in this article to make your mango season the most bountiful and profitable.
Symptoms of Fruit Fly in Mango:
To detect fruit fly infestation in mangoes, you should look for the following signs;
Presence of gummy exudations
Adult female fruit flies puncture the skin of developed fruits and lay their eggs within the inner flesh.
Once the eggs hatch, the maggots consume the pulp of the fruit, causing it to decay and rot.
As the larvae feed on the fruit, it may become mushy, discolored or develop brown or black sunken spots/patches.
Affected mangoes may show signs of blemishes and shriveling.
The internal feeding of the larvae can result in the presence of sticky secretions or gummy exudations on the surface of infested fruits.
Small exit holes of larvae can be visible on the fruit skin.
Infested fruits rot from inside, leading to a foul smell and deterioration of the fruit.
Affected fruits may tend to ripen prematurely and drop off.
Preventive Measures of Fruit Fly in Mango:
Cultural:
Avoid growing alternate host plants near mango orchards such as melons, guava, papaya and citrus.
Collect and dispose of any fallen or infested fruits away from the orchard.
Expose the pupae to sunlight and eliminate them by ploughing the topsoil of the orchard to about 10 cm depth during Nov – Dec.
Plant varieties that mature early, enabling the fruits to ripen during periods of low fruit fly populations.
Grow mango varieties with similar growth cycles.
Remove weeds around the trees and maintain field sanitation.
Remove any wild or old trees in or near the orchard to eliminate the potential breeding sites.
For 1 acre orchard, install 4 – 6 yellow sticky traps to catch adult fruit flies which are particularly attracted to their bright yellow colour.
Bait traps: Food baits (sugar-based or protein-based) are effective to lure and trap fruit flies. Use methyl eugenol traps at 4 – 6 per acre to lure and kill male fruit flies. It can be prepared by adding 10 ml of the mixture in a cotton ball (1 ml/lit methyl eugenol + 2 ml/lit Lambda-cyhalothrin) and place it per trap. Other food baits such as yeasts, sugar syrup or ripe/overripe mangoes/banana with poison can also be used to trap fruit flies.
(NOTE: Time and placement of traps is important to ensure effective trapping. Place the traps during the fruit development stage till the harvest. Also, hang or position the traps near areas of high fruit fly activity)
Physical Barrier:
Bag the mango fruits with fine mesh nets or covers to create physical barrier, preventing fruit flies from infesting the fruits.
Biological:
Spray neem oil at 2 – 3 ml/lit of water at regular intervals.
Introduce natural enemies such as parasitic wasps.
ITK Practices to control Fruit fly in Mango:
Crush 20 grams of holy basil leaves (Ocimum sanctum). Place the crushed leaves along with the extract inside a coconut shell. Then, fill the coconut shell with 100 ml of water. To enhance the longevity of the extract, add 0.5 grams of citric acid to it. To poison the extract, add 0.5 gram of carbofuran 3G. Hang the traps from mango tree branches at 4 traps per tree.
Make a trap using a 2-liter disposable water bottle by creating 2 holes on the bottle, 5 cm above its bottom. To hang, thread a string through the hole. Prepare attractant mixture for fruit flies by combining vinegar (1 cup), water (2 cups) and honey (1 tbsp). Shake the mixture and then fill the trap with it up to the level of the holes. Suspend the trap approximately 5 feet high.
Control Measures:
For effective management of fruit flies, you have to prioritize preventive measures before resorting to chemical management. Consider chemical control as a last resort when preventive measures alone are not sufficient to manage the infestation.
Bait Splash:
In case of severe infestation i.e., if you find > 5 flies per trap per day, bait spray can be done on the tree trunk once a week. Prepare it by mixing 100 grams of molasses or jaggery and 2 ml/lit of Deltamethrin in 1 liter of water.
(NOTE: The above-mentioned insecticides can be sprayed along with neem oil. Check the product’s description to know the right time of application)
Post-harvest Treatment:
Treat the harvested fruits with hot water at 48˚C for 1 hour.
Conclusion:
To protect your mangoes from fruit fly attack, regularly monitor the orchard for signs of its infestation, follow the above-mentioned preventive measures such as good cultural practices, installing traps and regular spray of neem oil combined with chemical management to get rid of the pest attack. By doing so, you can safeguard the quality of the fruits and ensure more yield and profit.
Click here to learn more about maximizing mango yields with our comprehensive guide: Healthy Trees, Bounty Harvest.
Being second in significance to groundnut in terms of both area and production, mustard occupies a predominant position in the country. In Northern India, the oil is used for human consumption. Additionally, it is used to make medications and oils for hair growth. It is used with mineral oils for lubrication in the soap industry. Green feed for cattle may be found in green stems and leaves. It can also be fed to cattle in the form of oil cake.
Our comprehensive guide on Mustard POP will equip you with details on how to grow mustard crop, right from mustard planting, nutrient requirements, crop protection till harvest.
Mustard Crop at a Glance
Botanical Name: Brassica juncea
Common Name: Sarason (Hindi), Rai (Punjabi), Katuku (Tamil), Kaduk (Malayalam), Avalu (Telugu).
Crop Season: Rabi season
Crop type: Field crop
Soil Requirements
In general, mustard cultivation can be done in a wide range of soils especially in medium to heavy soils. Sandy loam soil is the most ideal textural classification for the cultivation of mustard crop.
Climatic Requirements
Mustard thrives well in dry and chilled environmental conditions, as a result, it is referred to as a Rabi crop. Temperatures ranging between 10°C to 25°C and an annual rainfall between 625 to 1000 mm are suitable for cultivation of mustard crop. Moreover, it is highly sensitive to frost damage.
Package of Practices for Mustard
Land preparation for Mustard Cultivation
The crop needs a seed bed that is clean, well-pulverized, fine and wet. If the field has less moisture than is necessary for this sort of tilth, pre-sowing irrigation should be provided.When working in an irrigated ecology, the first ploughing should be done with a soil-turning plough, and later three to four harrowing followed by planking. In rainfed regions, disc harrowing should be done after each productive rainfall during the monsoon and planking should always come after each harrowing to prevent clod development and moisture loss.
Sowing time
The optimum sowing time for mustard ranges between 10th October to 25th October. The mustard planting period for rice fallows, on the other hand, typically stretches from the first week of November to the 15th of December. The temperature shouldn’t get over 32˚C when sowing or planting mustard seeds. In rainfed situations, it is advisable to postpone sowing if the temperature is higher than 32˚C.
Seed rate and Spacing
In general, mustard seeds should be sown in lines at a spacing of 45cm × 15cm with an optimum seed rate of 3.5-5 kg/ha. Seed can be either mixed with sand or ash and used for sowing. In saline environments, using the ridge-furrow approach is advantageous. After three weeks of planting mustard, thinning is required to maintain the ideal plant population.
Seed Treatment
White rust and downy mildew can cause yield losses in mustard farm, which can be minimized by seed treatment with Ridomil Gold (Metalaxyl 4% + Mancozeb 64%) at 6 gm/kg seed. Similarly, Trichoderma @ 5gm/kg seed was also used for the suppression of soil-borne diseases. However, treating seeds with Confidor (Imidacloprid 17.8% SL) at a rate of 1 ml/lit water for 1 kg of seeds helps to prevent many seed-borne insect infestations.
Irrigation Schedule
A mustard crop needs 190 to 400 mm of irrigation water. At critical periods, the crop is extremely vulnerable to water stress. The most critical stages of irrigation in mustard farm are the pre-flowering stage and siliquae formation stage.
Manures and Fertilizers
To avoid unnecessary fertilizer consumption and boost profitability of mustard farm, the fertilizer should be administered based on the results of a soil test. Application of available N, P, and K at rates of 80:40:40 kg/ha for timely sowing and 100:50:50 kg/ha for late sowing, as well as sulphur at rates of 40 kg/ha, zinc sulphate at rates of 25 kg/ha, and borax at rates of 10 kg/ha is usually recommended. In Irrigated environments, apply half of the nitrogen as a basal dosage and the remaining half during the first irrigation at 30 to 45 days after sowing. In rainfed, apply the full dose of recommended nutrients at the time of planting mustard.
Inter-cultivation Practices
It is advised to mechanically weed twice using a hand hoe at 15-20 and 35–40 days after mustard planting. Similarly, pre-emergence application of pendimethalin at a rate of 1 kg/ha was relatively successful. Crop rotation and spot application or protected herbicide spray of paraquat @ 2.5 ml/lit water, respectively are advised for the successful control of Orobanche.
Crop Protection (Pests and Diseases)
Pests infesting Mustard plant
a) Mustard Aphid (Lipaphiserysmi)
Symptoms
Both nymphs and adults suck sap from leaves and floral parts causing curling and distortion of leaves.
In severe cases, leaves appear sick and blighted in appearance leading to occurrence of sooty mold.
Management
Spray Rogor (Dimethoate 30% EC) at the rate of 1.5 ml/lit water during flowering stage.
b) Diamondback moth (Plutella xylostella)
Symptoms
Leaf epidermal tissues were scraped off by young larvae resulting in whitish patches.
During early stages, the leaves showed withered appearance.
As an infestation progresses, leaves may be entirely eaten.
It also penetrates pods and feeds on the growing seeds.
Management
To control the larval growth apply Proclaim (Emamectin Benzoate 5%SG) at 80gm/acre.
c) Leaf webber (Crocidolomia binotalis)
Symptoms
Young larvae that have just hatched initially consume the chlorophyll in young leaves before moving on to older leaves, buds, and pods where they form webbings and reside.
Defoliation occurs on severely damaged plants.
The seeds in the pods are consumed.
Management
Spray Tatafen (Fenvalerate 20 EC) at the rate of 2.5 ml/Lit of water.
d) Painted bug (Bargrada hilaris cruciferarum)
Symptoms
The infested plants wilt and wither.
Resinous gum like substance was excreted from adult bugs that spoils the siliqua.
Management
Spraying with Ampligo (Chlorantraniliprole 10 % + Lambda cyhalothrin 5% ZC) at 0.4 ml/Lit of water is effective.
e) Mustard Sawfly (Athalialugens)
Symptoms
The larva feeds on the leaves, boring holes and later turning the leaves skeletonized.
Under extreme cases, defoliation occurs.
Management
Spray the crop with Ekalux (Quinalphos 25 EC) at the rate of 2 ml/L of water.
Diseases affecting Mustard field
a) White rust (Albugo candida)
Symptoms
Whitish coloured pustules appear on under surface of leaves.
These outgrowths coalesce to form patches on the leaf.
Formation of stag head is the characteristic symptom of this disease.
Management
Spray Contaf (Hexaconazole 5 % SC) at 2 ml/Lit water or Tilt (Propiconazole 25% EC) at 1 ml/Lit of water.
b) Powdery mildew (Erysiphe cruciferarum)
Symptoms
On both sides of lower leaves, white circular spots will be observed.
All the parts of mustard plant especially leaves, stems and fruit are affected.
The affected fruit of mustard produced small and wrinkled.
Management
Spray the crop with Merivon (Fluxapyroxad 250 G/L + Pyraclostrobin 250 G/L SC) at the rate of 0.4 ml/L of water or Luna (Fluopyram 17.7% + Tebuconazole 17.7% SC) at 1 ml/Lit of water.
c) Alternaria leaf spot (Alternaria brassicae)
Symptoms
Small gray spots appear on leaves, stem and siliqua.
The spots enlarge and show a target board shaped center.
Management
Spray Sparsh (Mancozeb 75% WP) at 2 gm/Lit of water on the foliage usually at ten days interval.
In extreme cases, spray Nativo (Tebuconazole + Trifloxystrobin 75 WG) at 1 gm/Lit of water.
Harvesting and Threshing
Crop has to be harvested when 75% of the pods have become a golden yellow colour. To reduce shattering losses, the crop should ideally be harvested early in the morning when the pods are still wet from the previous night’s dew. When harvesting mustard plants, bundle them together and dry them in the sun for 5–6 days. The mustard plants should be beaten with a stick to thresh them.
Average yield from Mustard farm
Expect a yield of 400 kg/ha on average. Depending on the cultivar and management practices adopted, the yield may reach upto 1000 kg/ha.
Battle Of The Bugs: A Guide For Managing Sorghum Ear Head Bug
Sorghum ear head bug is a serious pest that attacks sorghum crops worldwide. They feed on the reproductive structures of sorghum plants, including the developing grains. The feeding activity of the bugs can cause significant damage to the crop, resulting in reduced yields and quality. In severe infestations, the impact can completely destroy the developing grains, leading to significant losses for farmers.
Type of Infestation
Sorghum ear head bug infests the sorghum plant by sucking the sap from the grains, leading to damage of seed coat, kernel and embryo. This results in a reduction in grain weight, quality and yield.
Scientific Name: Calocoris angustatus
Most Affected States
Sorghum Ear Head Bug is a major pest of sorghum crops in India. The pest is found in almost all the sorghum-growing states, but the major affected states are Maharashtra, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana and Tamil Nadu.
Symptoms of Sorghum Ear Head Bug
The sorghum ear head bug causes significant damage to sorghum crops and its infestation can be identified by several symptoms. The most common symptoms of Sorghum ear head bug infestation are:
During the milky stage, both nymphs and adult bugs suck the juice from grains.
As a result of sucking, shrinkage and black color discoloration of grains can be seen.
Infested grains become ill filled or chaffy.
Older grains will display noticeable feeding punctures that can lower their overall quality.
Sorghum Ear Head Bug Control Measures
To effectively control sorghum ear head bug, follow the below mentioned integrated management measures including cultural, mechanical, biological and chemical methods.
Cultural Measures
Plant resistant sorghum varieties like IS 1760, IS 17645, BBR-1 (ICS V239), CSM 388, Chencholam.
Following crop rotation with non-host crops reduces the ear head bugs population.
Early planting decreases the likelihood of the flowering period coinciding with the peak activity of ear head bugs.
Proper nutrition management, including balanced fertilization and irrigation can also help to reduce the susceptibility of sorghum plants to ear head bugs attacks.
Physical Measures
Installing Solar Light Traps in sorghum fields helps in trapping the earhead bugs. For effective trapping install one light trap per acre.
Mechanical Measures
Collect and destroy the heavily infested plants.
Tapas Yellow Sticky Trap can be used effectively to trap and kill the sorghum earhead bugs. For an acre install 4 to 6 traps to control earhead bugs population.
Sorghum Ear Head Bug Biological Measures
Encourage natural predators like spiders, coccinellid beetles and dragonflies to prey on the earhead bugs.
Greenpeace Neemol Bio Neem Oil Insecticidecontains neem-based products azadirachtin which when used at the rate of 1-2ml per liter of water with 15days interval between each spray can effectively control ear head bugs in sorghum fields.
Sorghum Ear Head Bug Chemical Measures
Commercial chemicals used for controlling sorghum ear head bugs are mentioned below,
Biofertilizers are natural supplements, derived from beneficial microorganisms, such as bacteria, fungi and algae, or their derivatives. These microorganisms establish symbiotic or associative relationships with plants, promoting nutrient uptake, protecting against diseases and enhancing overall plant growth. They enhance nutrient levels in the soil by harnessing natural processes such as nitrogen fixation, phosphorus solubilization and the synthesis of growth-promoting substances, thereby promoting plant growth.With their ability to enhance crop productivity and reduce chemical dependency, biofertilizers play a vital role in promoting sustainable and eco-friendly agricultural systems.
Biofertilizers enrich the soil by improving its microbial activity, organic matter content, and nutrient availability, leading to sustainable soil health.
They enhance nutrient uptake efficiency by facilitating the release of nutrients from the soil and promoting their absorption by plant roots.
They are environmentally friendly which reduces the dependency on synthetic fertilizers.
Compared to synthetic fertilizers, they can be cost-effective in the long run as they improve soil fertility, reducing the dependency on expensive chemical inputs.
Certain biofertilizers possess beneficial microorganisms that suppress soil-borne diseases by inhibiting the growth of pathogens, reducing the need for chemical fungicides. For example: Bacillus subtilisinhibits the growth of pathogens like Botrytis, Phytophthora, and Alternaria, providing disease suppression in crops such as vegetables, fruits and ornamentals.
They can improve overall crop yield by 10 – 25%.
Biofertilizers contain beneficial microorganisms that can help plants withstand biotic and abiotic stresses.
They contribute to improved soil structure and stability, reducing the risk of soil erosion.
Methods of Biofertilizer Application:
Biofertilizers can be applied through various methods depending on the type of biofertilizer, the crop being grown, and the specific agricultural practices.
Seed Treatment: Biofertilizers can be applied directly to the seeds before planting by coating the seeds with a biofertilizer formulation or by soaking the seeds in a biofertilizer solution before planting.
Seedling / Root Dip: In this method, roots of the seedlings or transplants are dipped in a biofertilizer suspension before transplanting them into the main field.
Soil Application: Biofertilizers can be applied to the soil either during or before planting. The products can be mixed with soil amendments like well decomposed FYM / compost / organic matter and can be spread evenly across the field. It can also be applied in furrows or planting holes at the time of sowing or transplanting.
Drip Irrigation or Fertigation: Biofertilizers can be applied through drip irrigation systems, by injecting its solution directly into the irrigation system, allowing it to be distributed evenly throughout the field.
Foliar Application: Some biofertilizers can be applied as foliar spray onto the leaves of plants. It involves spraying diluted biofertilizer solution onto the foliage, allowing the plant to absorb the nutrients and beneficial microorganisms through the leaf surfaces. This may help to address specific nutrient deficiencies.
Composting or vermicomposting: Biofertilizers can also be incorporated into the composting or vermicomposting process. This will help in decomposition of organic materials, accelerating the composting process and enriching the compost.
Precautions to be taken while using Biofertilizers:
Should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain the viability of the living microorganisms.
Apply biofertilizers at the appropriate stage of crop growth or as recommended.
Follow the recommended dosage guidelines. Avoid excessive application, as it may lead to imbalances in nutrient levels or interfere with plant growth.
Avoid applying biofertilizers during hot, dry periods or under intense sunlight, as this may reduce their effectiveness.
Prevent contamination of biofertilizers during handling and application.
Adequate soil moisture is crucial for the survival and activity of biofertilizer microorganisms. Ensure that the soil has sufficient moisture content before and after applying biofertilizers.
Biofertilizer, fungicides and other chemicals are incompatible, therefore they should not be mixed together.
To maximize effectiveness, it is recommended to exclusively apply Rhizobium to the designated crops due to its crop-specific nature.
Use the packet or bottle before its expiry.
Use both nitrogenous and phosphatic biofertilizers in combination to get optimal outcome.
Do not mix the bio-fertilizers with any chemical products while applying and also ensure that there should be a gap of 6-8 days before or after the biofertilizer application for applying any chemicals into the field.
Integrate the use of biofertilizers alongside chemical fertilizers and organic manures. They are not substitute for fertilizers, but rather are a means to supplement the nutrient requirements of plants.
Sorghum Aphids: Damage And Its Integrated Management
Aphids are tiny, soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of plants. They are small, oval-shaped insects that range in colour from green, yellow and black. Sorghum aphids are a serious pest that affects sorghum crop by sucking the sap from the plants. They are often referred to as “plant lice” because of their feeding habits, which can cause stunted growth, distorted leaves and even death of the affected plants. Warm and humid conditions favor the growth and development of sorghum aphids.
Types of Infestation
Sorghum aphids are known to infest the sorghum crop in two ways: direct infestation and indirect infestation. Direct infestation occurs when the aphids feed on the sap of the plant, causing a reduction in the plant’s growth and yield. Indirect infestation occurs when the aphids secrete a honeydew substance, which attracts other pests such as ants and flies. These pests feed on the honeydew, and their feeding activity can also damage the plant.
In India, Sorghum aphids are commonly found in the states of Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Telangana and Gujarat.
Symptoms of Sorghum Aphids
Sorghum aphid infestations can cause significant damage to the crop, resulting in stunted growth and reduced yield. Some of the common symptoms of Sorghum aphid infestations are:
The presence of aphids can be seen in the central leaf whorl, stems and panicles of the sorghum crop.
They suck the sap from the plant leading to yellowing of leaves.
Yellowish mottling of leaves, marginal leaf necrosis and stunted growth are the most common symptoms caused by sorghum aphids.
Sorghum aphids secrete a honeydew substance, which attracts other pests and can lead to the growth of sooty mould on the plant.
Transmits maize dwarf mosaic virus.
Sorghum Aphids Control Measures
A combination of different control measures is often required to effectively manage aphid infestations in sorghum crops. The following are some common IPM practices used to control aphids.
Cultural Measures
Removal of plant debris and weeds can reduce the population of sorghum aphids.
Avoid applying excessive doses of nitrogenous fertilizers.
Maintaining healthy plant growth, providing proper irrigation and adequate nutrients can also help to reduce the impact of aphids on sorghum crops.
Planting trap crops can be an effective way to manage aphids. Example, planting nasturtiums near the sorghum field can attract aphids away from sorghum.
Physical Measures
Solar Light Trap can be installed in sorghum field to trap and kill the adult aphids. For an acre install one light trap for effective trapping.
Sorghum Aphids Mechanical Measures
Collect and destroy the heavily infested plant parts.
Tapas Yellow Sticky Traps @ 6-8 traps per acre can be used for the effective control of aphids in sorghum plants.
Biological Measures
Release natural predators like ladybugs, lacewings and parasitic wasps to control aphid populations.
Katyayani Activated Neem Oil Biopesticide contains activated azadirachtin which when used at the rate of 5 ml per liter water with a 12 days interval between each spray can effectively control aphids in sorghum crops.
Amruth Alestra Liquid (Bio Insecticide) contains strains of naturally occurring entomopathogenic fungus Verticillium lecanii which comes in contact with the cuticle of the aphids and colonizes them. The recommended dosage is 2 ml per liter of water.
Sorghum Aphids Chemical Measures
Commercial chemicals that are used to control sorghum aphids includes,
Flower Dropping And Decreased Fruit Set In Papaya: Management Strategies
Papaya (Carica papaya) is a tropical fruit that is commercially significant due to its exceptional nutritional and medicinal value. One of the most interesting aspects of papaya trees is their unique sexual characteristics and the nature of their flowering. Unlike most other fruit trees, papaya trees are able to change their sex and produce both male and female flowers at different stages of their development. Papaya plants/trees may be categorized to male, female or hermaphrodite trees based on type of flowers they produce. Depending on the tree’s type, the flowers and fruit (if found) vary in appearance, function and size. Typically, a papaya plant’s gender may change depending on the temperature during the developmental stages.
Papaya Trees – Male type
The flowers of male papaya trees are small which grow in clusters on long stalks (peduncle) and have a thin, tube-like structure. Unlike female flowers, which only contain a pistil, male flowers have both male and female reproductive organs, with stamens producing pollen and pistils not functioning for fruit production.
Under normal conditions, male papaya trees cannot produce fruit. However, in certain environmental conditions, such as high temperatures in the summer, the tree may undergo a temporary gender change, becoming a hermaphrodite. In this case, the previously non-functional pistil can become active, allowing the tree to produce fruit after pollination.
Male inflorescencePapaya male flower clusters on long stalks
Papaya Trees – Female type
The flowers of female papaya trees grow singly or in small clusters and are typically larger than male flowers. They develop on shorter stalks and have a distinctive bulbous base that contains the ovary, which develops into the fruit when fertilized. The petals (5 in number) of female papaya flowers are broad and thick. Even though the male reproductive organ (stamen) is absent, the pistil is capable of producing fruit through pollination. Pollination is usually done by bees or other insects.
The fruit produced by pollinated female flowers is typically a green-skinned, melon-like fruit that ranges in size from 6 to 15 inches and contains yellow or orange flesh and black seeds. Unpollinated female papaya tree may produce seedless papaya fruit.
Female Papaya Flower
Papaya Trees –Hermaphrodite type
Hermaphrodite Papaya Tree
Hermaphrodite papaya trees are those that have both male and female reproductive organs in their flowers, making them capable of self-pollination and fruit production. Fruits produced from hermaphrodite papaya plants are generally medium to large in size, with an oval or elongated shape. They have a smooth, thin and slightly waxy skin that ranges in color from green to yellow orange when ripe and have a minimal number of small, black seeds.
During hot weather, hermaphrodite papaya trees may act as male trees, while under certain timing or training conditions, they may behave as female trees. this type of trees is preferred by commercial growers because they are more reliable and produce more fruit than female trees. However, they may require hand-pollination in some cases to ensure optimal fruit production.
Fruits in Female Papaya TreeFruits in Hermaphrodite Tree
Causes of Flower dropping in Papaya trees:
Temperature and Relative Humidity (RH):
For optimal pollination and fertilization of papaya fruits, the temperature should ideally be between 20 to 33°C, while the RH should be between 70 to 85 percent. Any temperature or humidity levels either below or above this range can negatively impact the pollination process and result in flower dropping before the fruit is formed. In cases where the temperature is too low, chemical growth regulators can be used to compensate, but this may result in seedless or low-quality fruit.
Cultural Factors:
Cultural factors, such as inadequate or excessive nitrogen (N) fertility levels, can lead to flower dropping in papaya trees. Both low and high doses of nitrogen can cause this issue. Toxicity can have a direct effect on flower abortion. While even medium levels of ammonical nitrogen can affect flower and fruit settings. This can also trigger viral infections, leading to flower dropping.
Water management:
Papaya trees are sensitive to both flooding and drought. Insufficient and excess moisture can have adverse effects on flower development, pollination, fertilization and fruit setting in papaya trees. Uneven water supply to the papaya plants can induce stress, resulting in irregular flower production and fruit setting.
Light Exposure:
Reduced or increased duration of light exposure can have negative consequences, potentially affecting flower development, pollination, fertilization and fruit setting.
Wind:
Excessive wind can naturally result in physical damage to flowers, causing them to fall off and can also cause pollen to be swept away, potentially leading to inadequate pollination and fertilization.
Pests:
The damage caused by insects, especially those that feed on flowers or fruits, can negatively impact the health of papaya flowers. Chewing insects may also contribute to flower damage. Fruit flies are especially problematic and can cause premature flower droppings.
Diseases:
Fungal and bacterial diseases can affect flower development, leading to flower dropping. Viral infections can also cause flower and fruit drops, as the virus can affect the plant’s ability to develop and mature the flowers and fruits.
Fungal infections: Powdery mildew, Downy mildew, Black spot.
Viral infections: Papaya Ring spot infections, Leaf Curl viral infections etc.
Nutrient deficiency:
When the soil has poor water and nutrient holding capacities, nutrient deficiencies can occur, especially for micronutrients such as boron and calcium. This is particularly common in sandy and light soils.
Control Measures to prevent Papaya Flower Drop:
The temperature and relative humidity are environmental factors that are often beyond the grower’s control. Similarly, the light exposure the trees receive cannot be controlled.
In some cases, the only option for the grower is to wait for favorable weather conditions, while in extreme conditions, regulating irrigation practices can help to control the microclimatic conditions.
To protect papaya plants from high winds, physical wind barriers can be erected along the borders, allowing necessary airflow while preventing damage from excessive wind.
By monitoring disease and pest management, flower drops can be avoided, and maximum yield can be achieved in papaya cultivation.
Ensure the papaya plants receive consistent and adequate watering, particularly during the flowering stage, to avoid water stress.
Provide balanced fertilization and micronutrients to the papaya plants, as nutrient deficiencies or toxicity can cause flower drop.
Ensure adequate pollination by introducing pollinators like honeybees, or hand-pollinate using a soft brush, as poor pollination can cause flower drops.
Management
Products
Micronutrients
Spray Allbor (20% Boron) micronutrient at 1 gm/lit during flowering and fruit setting stage.
Spray Multiplex Magnum Mn (Manganese 12%) at 0.5 gm/lit of water. It helps to resist viral multiplication in plants.
The Battle Against Rice Caseworm: Symptoms And Solutions
The rice caseworm is a pest that commonly affects rice crops and is mostly found in rice-growing regions worldwide. The larvae of the rice caseworm feed on the leaves of rice plants causing defoliation, yield loss and even crop failure which can lead to significant damage to the rice crops. Paddy at seedling and vegetative stages are the most preferred host of rice caseworms. It is commonly found in irrigated and rainfed wetland rice fields with poor drainage areas. The larvae can be identified by its translucent green body, orange head with filamentous gills on the side of the body. Transplanting young seedlings favors the development of rice caseworms.
Type of Infestation
Larvae feed on the chlorophyll content of the leaves leading to defoliation, stunted growth and death of the affected plant.
Scientific Name: Nymphula depunctalis
Most Affected States Due to Rice caseworm
The Paddy case worm is found throughout India, but it is most prevalent in the rice-growing regions of West Bengal, Assam, and Bihar.
Symptoms of Rice caseworm
The larvae consume the green tissue of the leaves, causing them to turn whitish and papery.
By cutting the apical part of leaves, caterpillars create tubular cases around themselves that can float on water.
Ladder-like leaf tissues can be seen on the infested leaves.
In case of severe infestation, plant growth is completely reduced.
Control Measures
Rice Caseworms can be controlled by following the below mentioned cultural, Mechanical, Biological and Chemical methods.
Rice Caseworm Cultural Measures
Cultural control methods for managing Paddy case worm infestations include the following:
Early planting can help rice crops avoid the peak activity period of caseworm moths.
Draining rice fields for 5-7 days can effectively kill caseworm larvae.
Provide rice fields with wider hill spacing, typically 30 x 20 cm to experience less damage from caseworm.
Applying nitrogen fertilizer at optimal dosages and using split applications can reduce the abundance of rice caseworms.
Use a rope to dislodge the caseworm, causing them to fall on the ground and subsequently drain the water, gather the cases and destroy them.
Mechanical Measures
Mix 400 ml of kerosene with 10 kg of sand and apply the mixture to the stagnant water. Then use coir rope for dislodging the caseworms in water mixed with kerosene.
Rice Caseworm Biological Measures
Release natural predators such as larval parasitoids, Elasmus sp., Apanteles sp., Bracon sp., and pupal parasitoids, Pediobius sp., Apsilops sp., Eupteromalus parnarae to control the rice caseworms population.
Also encourage biocontrol agents like hydrophilid and dytiscid water beetles to feed on the larvae of caseworms and spiders, dragonflies, birds to feed on the adult caseworms.
Rice Caseworm Chemical Measures
Coromandel phendal is a broad-spectrum insecticide, which has a strong pungent odour that prevents adult caseworm moths from laying eggs. It contains a penthoate 50% EC and when used at the rate of 2 ml per liter of water can effectively control rice caseworms.
Ekalux Insecticide is another broad-spectrum insecticide that can be effective in controlling rice case worm infestations. It contains Quinalphos 25% EC. The recommended dosage is 2 ml per liter of water.
ExploreManagement Of Bacterial Leaf Blight In Rice/Paddy.
