The Kinathukadavu Horticulture Department has issued advisory guidelines to control mealybug infestation in cassava cultivation, which spans 30 hectares in the region.
Coimbatore: The Kinathukadavu Horticulture Department has issued an advisory on September 13 to address the potential threat of mealybug infestation in cassava cultivation. The advisory comes as a proactive measure, considering that cassava is cultivated across 30 hectares in the Kinathukadavu region.
Mealybugs proliferate on the leaves and stems of cassava plants, sucking the sap and causing damage. These pests appear as white, cottony masses clustered on the lower parts of the plant, young branches, and stems. As the insects feed on the plant's sap, the leaves change color and eventually dry out.
To control mealybug infestations, the department recommends implementing an integrated pest management approach. This includes monitoring cassava plants for ants and mealybugs during the early growth stages and taking appropriate protective measures. The advisory suggests avoiding the use of pesticides when there is a high presence of parasites and predators that naturally control the mealybug population.
Furthermore, if mealybug infestation is detected in its initial stages, farmers can apply a 2% neem oil solution or 5 ml of Azadirachtin mixed with one liter of water. This organic approach can effectively control the pest population.
The department also advises on the benefits of intercropping and border cropping. These practices can attract beneficial insects that prey on harmful pests, thereby naturally controlling the mealybug population.
By following these guidelines, cassava farmers in the Kinathukadavu area can protect their crops from mealybug damage and ensure a healthy harvest.
Mealybugs proliferate on the leaves and stems of cassava plants, sucking the sap and causing damage. These pests appear as white, cottony masses clustered on the lower parts of the plant, young branches, and stems. As the insects feed on the plant's sap, the leaves change color and eventually dry out.
To control mealybug infestations, the department recommends implementing an integrated pest management approach. This includes monitoring cassava plants for ants and mealybugs during the early growth stages and taking appropriate protective measures. The advisory suggests avoiding the use of pesticides when there is a high presence of parasites and predators that naturally control the mealybug population.
Furthermore, if mealybug infestation is detected in its initial stages, farmers can apply a 2% neem oil solution or 5 ml of Azadirachtin mixed with one liter of water. This organic approach can effectively control the pest population.
The department also advises on the benefits of intercropping and border cropping. These practices can attract beneficial insects that prey on harmful pests, thereby naturally controlling the mealybug population.
By following these guidelines, cassava farmers in the Kinathukadavu area can protect their crops from mealybug damage and ensure a healthy harvest.