As soybean crops continue to be an essential source of protein and oil for both domestic and agricultural purposes, strategies to mitigate their infestation by sucking pests are essential. Sucking pests are insects that use their sucking mouthparts to remove the sap present in the soybean plants. As a result, the soybean crop is weakened, leading to stunted growth, reduced yields, and quality deterioration.
Pest control measures must, therefore, be employed to mitigate the invasion of sucking pests. Here are some notable control strategies;
1. Regular crop monitoring:
The first step in controlling sucking pests in soybean crops is regular crop monitoring. This involves frequent inspections of the crop for any early signs of infestation, including damaged stems, leaves, and defoliation.
2. Cultural controls:
Cultural control measures, including proper crop rotation and crop sanitation, are useful in mitigating sucking pests. By alternating soybean with other crops, the hiding and breeding places of the pests are disrupted. Proper sanitation also helps remove any debris and dead plants which may harbor pests, reducing their chances of re-infesting the soybean crop.
3. Chemical control:
Chemical control measures are the most commonly used method for controlling sucking pests in soybean crops. Chemical treatments typically occur by using insecticides. The use of chemical control is effective in controlling sucking pests but suggests the use of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) that reduces the chances of resistance buildup and environmental impact. Farmers should follow guidelines issued by regulators when using insecticides.
4. Biological Control:
Biological control measures refer to the use of natural biological agents such as predators and parasites which prey on sucking pests. The application of beneficial insects such as ladybirds, parasitic wasps, and lacewings can help reduce pest population and growth.
5. Physical methods:
Physical methods refer to techniques that involve the physical removal of plants or parasites by spraying plants with water or using traps to catch pests.
In conclusion, controlling sucking pests in soybean crops is essential for crop yield, food security, and quality production. As farmers, it is important to embrace crop rotation, sanitation, and suitable crop management practices to mitigate the infestation of sucking pests. They should also emphasize the use of natural predators, IPM, and chemical control methods as necessary strategies to curb the invasion of sucking pests.