Cutworms are greasy larvae that are black in colour with pale dorsal stripes making them distinctive. They are usually found in the soil but some species feed on the seedlings and newly transplanted plants that are in the soil level.
Symptoms
Cutworms in chilli plants leave the tender leaves with irregular holes, cut in them, or cause the stems to be cut at the ground level. The worms come out at night to feed and go back under the soil during day time. While doing so, they could drag the stem underground causing them to wilt.
Preventive Measures
The best preventive course is to plough the soil at least 3-5 weeks prior to planting to force the worms out of the soil. It will help its predators to catch hold of them as well. You must make sure to clear the weeds regularly and plant sunflower plants in between to attract the worms. Also, make sure to do tilling and remove all plant residue to leave the worms starving for a few weeks.
Chemical Control
- EM 1 Insecticide is a multipurpose insecticide in a soluble granule form. It contains Emamectin Benzoate 5% SG that has translaminar action to act on the worms located on the lower side of the leaves. It works within 2 hours of application and can withstand rain for up to 4 hours. Use it at a dosage of 80 gm per acre.
- Coragen Insecticide is a broad-spectrum insecticide more active as a larvicide. The chemical component here is Chlorantraniliprole 18.5 % which offers long-term protection as well. Dilute this concentrated liquid at 0.4 ml/litre or 60 ml/acre.
- Alika Insecticide is a mix of Lambda Cyhalothrin (9.5%) ZC and Thiamethoxam (12.6%) that work on sucking pests. It works by both contact and systemic methods. The dosage is 0.5 ml per litre of water or 80 ml per acre.
- All Bata Royal Larvend is a biodegradable green insecticide made of parasitic microorganisms and live Entomopathogenic nematodes. Use it as a foliar spray for 7-10 days initially and 1-2 times a month after diluting it at a ratio of 2 ml per litre of water.
Conclusion
Cutworms usually attack the roots and shoot systems at ground level but during summer they may come up the plants and destroy leaves and other parts as well. Timely use of pesticides can control them effectively. We hope that this information will be helpful for you. To get all kinds of information related to crops visit our website https://kisanvedika.bighaat.com/ or give a missed call on our toll free number 1800 3000 2434.
Note: The information contained herein is for informational purposes only. Nothing herein shall be construed to be financial or legal advice. Pesticides are a considerable risk of loss in crops and viewers are advised to do their own research before making any decisions.
