Early shoot borer (Chilo infuscatellus) is a major pest of sugarcane that can cause significant damage to the crop. It affects the vegetative growth of sugarcane by affecting the central shoot, which results in reduced yield. In this article, we will discuss how to control early shoot borer in sugarcane.
1. Mechanical Control
The removal of infested leaves or the entire shoot can reduce the instances of early shoot borer infestations. It is recommended to remove the damaged portion of the crop and bury it deep in the soil to prevent the emergence of larvae. This can only be done up to the third or fourth instar stage, after which chemical control measures must be employed.
2. Cultural Control
It is important to avoid waterlogging and maintain the required nitrogen levels in the soil. Soil should be kept at a moisture level that doesn’t necessitate extensive use of irrigation, as irrigating excessively makes the sugarcane susceptible to early shoot borer infestations.
3. Biological Control
Releasing natural predators of early shoot borers, such as Trichogramma chilonis, can help to reduce infestations. The larvae of Trichogramma chilonis feed on eggs of the early shoot borers, consequently preventing them from hatching.
4. Chemical Control
Several insecticides are developed to control early shoot borer in sugarcane. neonicotinoids, organophosphates, and pyrethroids are the most commonly used chemical groups. However, usage of chemical insecticides should be carried out only when infestation reaches the economic threshold. In addition, frequent usage should be avoided to prevent the development of insecticide resistance by the early shoot borer.
In conclusion, the presence of early shoot borer is a vital threat to sugarcane cultivation. Therefore, it is important to employ integrated pest management strategies to prevent and control infestation. Farmers must employ a combination of mechanical, cultural, biological, and chemical control measures to keep the early shoot borer population below the economic threshold level. By doing so, the economic loss caused by the early shoot borer infestation is minimized.