Sorghum crop is an important cereal crop and is prominently grown in the African continent. The crop suffers from a host of pests, chief among them being the larvae and sucking pests. These pests not only cause damage to the crop but also reduce the quality of the yield. Therefore, it becomes essential to implement control measures to keep the pests at bay.
Larvae Control:
1. Crop rotation: The practice of crop rotation is effective in reducing the population of larvae. The process involves planting different crops in the same field every season. This reduces the availability of plant hosts for the larvae, making it difficult for them to survive.
2. Biological control: Biological control is a method where natural enemies of pests are introduced to the environment. Examples of biological control agents for larvae include parasitic wasps and predatory insects.
3. Chemical control: Chemical control is the use of pesticides to eliminate pests. However, it is important to use pesticides that are specific to larvae and do not harm the beneficial organisms.
Sucking Pest Control:
1. Cultural control: Cultural control involves practices such as regular weeding, hoeing, and sanitation. These practices reduce the breeding grounds for the pests, and physical barriers like nets can restrict the movement of pests.
2. Biological control: Just like for larvae, biological control of sucking pests is an effective method. The use of predators like ladybugs or lacewings can provide control of sucking insects such as aphids or whiteflies.
3. Chemical control: The use of chemicals is also viable for controlling sucking pests. The selection and application of the pesticide should be done carefully to not harm the beneficial insects or pollinators present in the field.
Conclusion:
The control measures highlighted can reduce the risk of crop damage, increase crop quality and result in higher yields. The issue of pest control must be handled carefully, without negatively impacting the environment or farmer’s safety. Agriculturists must remain vigilant and stay informed on the latest developments in pest control methods to protect their crops from pests effectively.