Shoot borer is one of the most severe pests of guava. The pest mainly attacks the shoots, buds, and fruits of the guava plant. Shoot borer infestation results in the stunted growth of the plant, yield loss, and premature dropping of the fruits. To keep the shoot borer infestation under control, it is crucial to understand the pest and its biology.
The shoot borer, which is scientifically known as Leucinodes orbonalis, is a small moth. The adult moth has a wingspan of about 25 mm, and its color varies from greyish-brown to dark brown. The female moth lays its eggs on the tender shoots or buds of the guava plant. The larvae of the moth bore into the stem or the fruit and feed on the internal tissues, causing severe damage.
There are several ways to control the shoot borer infestation in the guava crop. The most effective method is the use of insecticides. There are several insecticides available in the market that are specifically designed to control the shoot borer. The insecticides can be applied by spraying or by injecting them into the tree trunk. The application of insecticide should be done at the time of maximum pest activity, which is usually during the monsoon season.
Apart from the use of insecticides, other cultural practices can be adopted to control the shoot borer infestation. The plant debris and fallen fruits should be removed from the orchard to prevent the buildup of the pest population. Pruning of the affected branches should be done and the cut branches should be destroyed. The use of pheromone traps can also be beneficial in controlling the pest population.
Another effective method of controlling the shoot borer infestation is the use of biocontrol agents. Several natural enemies of the shoot borer, including parasitic wasps, fungus, and nematodes, are available. These natural enemies can be released in the orchard, and they will attack and kill the pest, thereby controlling their population.
In conclusion, the shoot borer infestation is a severe threat to the guava crop. It is essential to adopt a holistic approach that includes the use of insecticides, cultural practices, and biocontrol agents to control the pest population. Proper monitoring of the orchard for pest activity is crucial, and timely action should be taken to prevent the pest infestation from becoming severe. By adopting these measures, guava growers can effectively control the shoot borer infestation and protect their crop from yield loss.