Soybean crop, a vital crop worldwide, is under threat from stem borers. The larval stage of the stem borer insect eats the inner part of the stem. This makes the stem hollow, which leads to plant death, reduction in yield or stunted growth. The damage caused by stem borers can reduce yield by up to 20-30%. Therefore, protecting soybean crop from stem borers is essential for a successful harvest and high yield.
Here are control measures that farmers can adopt to protect their soybean from stem borers.
1. Crop rotation: Rotation of soybean crop with non-host crops can help reduce the population of the stem borer. This control measure works because the stem borer is host-specific, so it cannot survive in non-host plants.
2. Use of resistant varieties: The development of stem borer-resistant soybean varieties can significantly reduce the occurrence of the pest. Farmers should select resistant varieties when purchasing soybeans.
3. Chemical control: Insecticides can be used to control stem borer infestation. However, it is important to use insecticides judiciously. Insecticides should only be used as a last resort, and farmers should follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
4. Early planting: Planting soybean early (May-June) can help reduce the damage caused by stem borers. Studies have shown that early planting allows the soybean to mature before the stem borer infestation.
5. Use of pheromone traps: Pheromone traps can be used to attract and kill moths of stem borers. The traps can reduce the number of matured larvae, and it is essential to monitor such traps regularly.
6. Field sanitation: The removal of plant residues after harvest, particularly the removal of dead stems, can help reduce the incidence of stem borers. Farmers are advised to plow and remove soybean crop debris after harvest.
In conclusion, stem borer infestation can greatly reduce the yield of soybean crop. Therefore, farmers need to employ effective control measures to protect their soybean from stem borers. The use of early planting, crop rotation, resistant varieties, chemical control, pheromone traps, and field sanitation can help reduce the stem borer infestation and protect the soybean crop.