Certainly, here is an article on information regarding the control of leaf folder in paddy (jhona) crop:
Paddy or jhona crop is the most important cereal grain in the world and is grown in numerous countries across the world. It is one of the major food crops, and it offers employment to countless individuals. It is, therefore, crucial to protect this crop from various pests that can cause extensive damage to the crop. The leaf folder (Cnaphalocrocis medinalis) is one of the most destructive pests that infests paddy crops. They feed on the leaves of the crop, resulting in reduced productivity and quality of the grain. Here are some ways to control leaf folder in paddy crops:
1. Cultural control: Proper field management practices such as land preparation, irrigation, and fertilizer application could contribute to the prevention of leaf folder infestation. It is crucial to maintain proper drainage facilities in the field to avoid the creation of stagnant water, which is the breeding ground for leaf folders.
2. Chemical control: Chemical control is the most effective method of controlling leaf folders. Insecticides such as chlorpyriphos, carbaryl, and quinalphos are the most commonly employed chemicals used to treat leaf folders. The insecticides can be applied by spraying or as granular formulations.
3. Biological control: The utilization of natural enemies or “biocontrol agents” to control leaf folder populations is an environmentally friendly technique. There are numerous natural enemies such as dragonflies, spiders, and parasitoids that can feed on the leaf folder larvae and reduce population levels. It is crucial, however, to maintain a balance between the biocontrol agents and the pest populations to avoid further damage to the crop.
4. Resistance breeding: Paddy varieties with inherent resistance to leaf folders are one way to control this pest. Resistant varieties can be cultivated to reduce the severity of leaf folder infestations, especially in areas prone to frequent infestations.
In conclusion, controlling leaf folders in paddy crops is crucial to maintain crop productivity and quality. Employing a combination of techniques such as cultural, chemical, biological control, and resistance breeding will lead to the most effective and sustainable management of this pest. It is essential to prioritize using eco-friendly approaches and minimize the reliance on chemical pesticides to guarantee the safety of the environment and the human population.