Certainly, here is an article on Control of Pod Borer in Summer Moong:
Summer moong, scientifically known as Vigna radiata, is an important legume crop cultivated in the summer season in India. It is a rich source of protein, and several delicious dishes can be prepared from its seeds. However, the crop is susceptible to various pests and diseases that can cause yield losses. One such pest is the pod borer, which can significantly damage the moong pods and reduce the yield. Therefore, it is essential to control the pod borer infestation in summer moong to obtain a good harvest.
Identification of Pod Borer in Summer Moong:
The pod borer in summer moong is a caterpillar that feeds on the tender pods of the plant. The larvae are 15-20 mm long, cream to light green in color with four pink stripes on its body. The head is brown, and a pair of dark spots can be seen behind it. The larvae feed inside the pod and cause extensive damage. But, the adult pod borers are small grayish-brown moths with a wingspan of about 20 mm.
Control Measures for Pod Borer in Summer Moong:
1. Cultural Control Measures:
It is essential to adopt cultural control measures to reduce the infestation of the pod borer in summer moong. One such measure is crop rotation, which can help to break the lifecycle of the pest. It is advisable not to plant summer moong in the same field but instead switch to a different crop.
Another measure is to maintain good soil health and fertility by adding organic matter, which will improve the plant’s immunity and reduce the susceptibility to pests and diseases.
2. Biological Control Measures:
Biological control measures can significantly help in managing the pod borer population. The use of natural enemies like predators and parasites can reduce the pest infestation. The egg parasitoid, Trichogramma, can parasitize the eggs of the pod borer and reduce its population. The larvae of the Braconid wasp can also be used, which feeds on the pod borer larvae.
3. Chemical Control Measures:
Chemical control measures should only be used as a last resort and only after assessing the infestation levels. Insecticides like carbaryl, endosulfan, and chlorpyrifos can be used to control the pod borer infestation. It is essential to follow the instructions mentioned on the label before using any insecticide.
4. Mechanical Control Measures:
Mechanical control measures like handpicking of pods infested with larvae can help reduce the population of the pod borer. Farmers can also use light traps at night to attract the adult moths, which can then be captured.
Conclusion:
The control of pod borer in summer moong is essential to obtain a good harvest. The nutrient-rich crop is highly susceptible to the pest, and farmers should adopt various control measures to reduce the infestation levels. Cultural, biological, mechanical, and chemical control measures can be used according to the infestation levels, and utmost care should be taken while using any insecticide. Proper pest management will not only lead to better crop health but will also prevent environmental pollution.