As one of the most common crops globally, wheat is always prone to insect attack, which if left unchecked may lead to significant yield losses. Insect pests such as black bugs and white flies are among the most destructive as they can quickly multiply, infest large areas of the field, and ultimately eat away at the wheat crop. Consequently, farmers must have control measures in place to manage these pests and protect their crops. This article discusses some of the ways to control insects in wheat crops.
Cultural control of insects in wheat: One of the most effective means of controlling insect pests is through cultural methods. This involves changing farm practices to reduce the incidence of pests. A farmer can start by planting resistant cultivars or disease-free seeds, which are not attractive to insects. Additionally, timely planting and crop rotation have also proven useful in minimizing the risk of pest attacks.
Biological control of insects in wheat: Biological control involves using natural enemies such as parasites, predators, and pathogens to control insect pests. For instance, planting crops such as clovers and alfalfa between wheat plants can attract beneficial insects such as ladybugs and lacewings, which feed on pests such as aphids that attack wheat.
Chemical control of insects in wheat: The use of insecticides is the most common and direct method of controlling insect pests. The farmer should use the right insecticide to decrease the chances of insect resistance to one particular insecticide. Farmers should choose low toxic, low residue insecticides that are less hazardous to human health and the environment.
Monitoring and surveillance of pests in wheat plots: Farmers should frequently monitor their fields to detect insect pests and take appropriate measures to stop their spread. Early detection and intervention can prevent crop losses.
In conclusion, prevention of insects such as black bugs and white fly in wheat crop can be achieved through the integration of multiple management strategies. Crop rotation and planting insect-resistant species of wheat can help to reduce pests’ population levels. The use of biological controls and monitoring and surveillance of pests can help farmers determine the best time for effective treatment with minimum exposure to pesticides. Farmers must apply the right doses of insecticides to ensure healthy plant growth without compromising the quality of the harvested grains and ensure safety in human consumption.