Home / Environment / Himachal Maize Farmers Battle Destructive Fall Armyworm
Himachal Maize Farmers Battle Destructive Fall Armyworm
17 Jul
Summary
- Fall Armyworm infestation reported across multiple Himachal districts.
- Experts advocate Integrated Pest Management (IPM) for control.
- Specific insecticide recommendations provided for severe infestations.
Multiple districts in Himachal Pradesh are reporting concern among maize farmers over a significant Fall Armyworm (FAW) infestation. Experts from Chaudhary Sarwan Kumar Himachal Pradesh Agricultural University in Palampur are advising farmers to remain vigilant and implement Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies for sustainable pest control.
The destructive pest, scientifically known as Spodoptera frugiperda, can cause substantial yield losses by feeding on various parts of the maize plant and even boring into stems. Early detection symptoms include window-pane feeding on young leaves and the presence of larvae and excreta in the plant whorl.
University entomology department head Dr. Surjeet Kumar stressed the importance of regular field scouting, destruction of egg masses, maintaining field sanitation, and conserving beneficial insects. Pheromone traps are recommended for monitoring pest populations. Chemical control, using specific insecticides like Emamectin Benzoate or Chlorantraniliprole, should only be a last resort when damage exceeds 10% or the pest population reaches the Economic Threshold Level (ETL).
Experts are appealing to maize growers to avoid indiscriminate pesticide use, promoting eco-friendly pest management practices. When insecticides are necessary, thorough coverage of the maize whorl and adherence to recommended doses and safety precautions are crucial.
