As a farmer, dealing with pests can be a never-ending battle. One pest that can cause significant damage to brinjal (also known as eggplant) crops is the fruit and shoot borer. This insect pest is prevalent in South and Southeast Asia and can cause havoc for farmers who aren’t prepared to handle their damage.
The fruit and shoot borer is a moth that lays its eggs on the brinjal’s leaves or stem. Once the eggs hatch, the larvae burrow into the plant, feeding on the stem and fruit. This feeding process results in the wilting of the stem and ultimately, the death of the plant.
One sign that a brinjal plant may be infected with fruit and shoot borer is the presence of small holes in the leaves or fruit. Additionally, the presence of frass (insect excrement) near leaf axils is another indication of an infestation.
Preventive measures are the best way to handle fruit and shoot borer infestations. One method is crop rotation, which involves changing the planting location of the brinjal crop yearly. Additionally, using pheromone traps can be helpful in attracting and trapping the adult moths before they have the chance to lay their eggs.
If an infestation has already occurred, manual removal of the larvae and destroyed fruit can be effective. Alternatively, the use of biopesticides and organic insecticides can be effective in controlling the pest.
It is essential to monitor brinjal crops regularly for signs of fruit and shoot borer infestations to prevent significant damage and yield loss. By implementing preventive measures and acting promptly, farmers can prevent damage and continue producing healthy, bountiful brinjal crops.