Controlling Stalk Borer and Cutworms Attack on Sorghum (Jwar)
Sorghum, also known as jwar, is an important food and fodder crop in many parts of the world. However, it is often attacked by pests, including stalk borers and cutworms, which can cause significant damage to the crop. These pests feed on the leaves and stems of the plants, which can lead to reduced yield and quality. If you are a farmer who is growing sorghum, it is important to take measures to control these pests and protect your crop. Here are some of the control measures that can be used to manage stalk borer and cutworms attack on sorghum.
1. Use Resistant Varieties
One of the best ways to prevent pest attacks is to use sorghum varieties that are resistant to stalk borers and cutworms. There are many sorghum varieties available that have been developed to resist these pests. Farmers can select the best variety for their region and growing conditions to achieve optimal yields.
2. Crop Rotation
Crop rotation is another effective control measure for stalk borers and cutworms in sorghum. Crop rotation helps in disrupting the pest’s lifecycle, reducing pest populations in the soil. Growing alternative crops in between sorghum growing seasons can also help in limiting the pest’s attack.
3. Early Planting and Harvesting
The timing of planting and harvesting of sorghum can also have an impact on pest management. Early planting and early harvesting can help to avoid peak pest pressure and reduce damage. The use of a calendar to keep track of planting time can assist in optimal timing of planting.
4. Use of Trap Crops
Deploying trap crops is another effective control measure for stalk borer and cutworms. Trap crops can attract and distract pests from the main sorghum crop. These trap crops can be an alternative crop that these pests will prefer to the sorghum crop. Once pests are attracted to the trap crop, it can be easily controlled using pesticides. This measure reduces the exposure of the main sorghum crop to pests and reduces crop damage.
5. Chemical Control
Chemical control also plays a vital role in the management of pests in sorghum. Farmers can use pesticides that are effective in controlling the pest, although care must be taken to prevent damage to the sorghum plants. Accurate calculation of the recommended dosage is needed to minimize damage to the crop.
In conclusion, the effect of stalk borer and cutworms attack on sorghum can be detrimental to farmers’ income. Adoption of a comprehensive pest management plan is necessary to combat these insects on the farm. Among the numerous measures growers can take, choosing the right variety, crop rotation, early planting, the use of trap crops, and chemical control are the most effective control measures for stalk borer and cutworms attack on sorghum crops.