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Cotton is one of the most important cash crops in the world, and the white fly or sundi is one of the most disastrous pests that can plague this crop. White fly or sundi can cause extensive damage to cotton crop in a short amount of time. With this in mind, it is important for farmers to take proactive measures to control these pests before they cause significant economic loss. Here are some effective ways to control white fly/sundi in cotton crop:
1. Use Resistant Varieties: Planting resistant varieties is the most effective way to control white fly/sundi in cotton. There are many varieties of cotton that have been developed to be resistant to this pest. These varieties contain natural insecticides that repel or kill the pests. This method is the most eco-friendly and sustainable way of controlling white fly/sundi.
2. Biological Control: Biological control is another effective means of controlling white fly/sundi in cotton. This method involves introducing natural predators, such as parasitic wasps, ladybugs, and lacewings, into the cotton field to prey on the pests. The use of biological control is environmentally friendly, and it does not cause harm to the cotton crop.
3. Chemical Control: When other methods are not effective, chemical control can be used to control white fly/sundi in cotton. Insecticides, such as systemic insecticides, can be sprayed on the cotton plants to eliminate the pests. However, this method is not environmentally friendly and can cause harm to beneficial insects and contaminate the soil and water.
4. Cultural Control: Cultural control involves using cultural practices to manage white fly/sundi infestations. Practices such as frequent mowing, crop rotation, and destroying the residue of the cotton crop that would provide a harborage for pests, can help to reduce the numbers of pests in the field.
Conclusion:
Controlling white fly/sundi in cotton crop is essential to protect the crop from significant economic loss. The most effective control methods are planting resistant varieties, biological control, cultural control, and chemical control, in order of importance. Farmers need to evaluate the severity of the pest infestation and choose the most appropriate control method adapting to their specific conditions. It is highly recommended to avoid the use of chemical control unless other methods have failed. By implementing better control measures, farmers can increase their yield and profitability while safeguarding the environment and human health.