Control of leaf folder and stem borer in paddy
Paddy is one of the most important cereal crops in the world. However, it is vulnerable to pests and diseases which can cause significant yield losses if not properly managed. Leaf folder and stem borer are two of the most damaging pests of paddy that can significantly reduce the yield and quality of the crop. Therefore, effective control measures are necessary to reduce the damage caused by these pests. In this article, we will discuss the control of leaf folder and stem borer in paddy.
Leaf folder control
Leaf folder (Cnaphalocrocis medinalis) is a serious pest of paddy that damages leaves and affects the photosynthetic capacity of the crop. Several management strategies can be followed to control this pest:
1. Cultural control: Crop rotation, deep plowing, and timely sowing can help reduce the incidence of leaf folder.
2. Biological control: Natural predators such as spiders, ants, and birds can be encouraged to reduce the population of leaf folders in the field.
3. Chemical control: Spraying of insecticides such as cartap hydrochloride, chlorantraniliprole, and thiamethoxam can help control leaf folders. However, care should be taken to use the insecticides at the recommended dose and at the right time.
Stem borer control
Stem borer (Scirpophaga incertulas) is another major pest of paddy that damages stems and reduces the yield of the crop. The following control measures can be taken to manage this pest:
1. Cultural control: Destroying the stubble of the previous crop, leaving a narrow water border, and removing weeds can help reduce the incidence of stem borer.
2. Biological control: Parasitoids such as Trichogramma and Braconids can be released in the field to reduce the population of stem borer.
3. Chemical control: Insecticides such as chlorpyrifos and quinalphos can be sprayed to control stem borer. However, care should be taken to use the insecticides at the recommended dose and at the right time.
Conclusion
Leaf folder and stem borer are serious pests of paddy that can significantly reduce the yield and quality of the crop. The above-mentioned control measures should be followed to reduce the damage caused by these pests. It is also important to monitor the field regularly to detect the presence of pests and take appropriate action. Proper pest management can help improve the yield and quality of paddy, thereby increasing the income of farmers.