As a garlic farmer, it can be devastating to see your crop being attacked by root insects and sucking pests. These pests include mites, aphids, nematodes, and thrips, and they can reduce garlic yields significantly. However, by following some pest control measures, you can protect your crop and ensure a successful harvest. The following are some proven ways that can help you control root insect and sucking pest in garlic crop.
1. Crop rotation
Crop rotation is one of the most effective ways to control root insect and sucking pests in garlic crop. Rotating garlic with crops such as cereals or legumes reduces pests’ population in the soil, as these crops act as hosts for different pests. Additionally, by rotating crops, it helps to maintain soil nutrients, improves soil structure, and promotes growth and development of fungal and bacterial populations that attack pest populations.
2. Proper soil management
Proper soil management is crucial in controlling root insect and sucking pests in garlic crop. Ensure that your garlic crop is planted in well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 to 7.5. When garlic is planted in poorly-drained soil or soil with low pH levels, it weakens garlic, making it susceptible to pests and diseases. Additionally, proper soil management practices such as maintaining good soil moisture levels, using organic fertilizers, and adding compost & other organic material to the soil will help deter insects and disease-causing bacteria.
3. Use of biopesticides
Biopesticides are natural insecticides that are safe to use in controlling pests in garlic crop. Some commonly used biopesticides in controlling root insect and sucking pests include neem oil, pyrethrum, and insecticidal soap. These biopesticides work by reducing the growth and development of insects, thereby reducing pest populations.
4. Use of insect traps
Insect traps are useful tools in controlling root insect and sucking pests in garlic crop. They work by attracting and trapping pests, thus reducing their population in the garlic crop. You can use yellow sticky traps to trap insects such as thrips and aphids or nematode traps to monitor and control nematode populations in the soil.
5. Apply beneficial nematodes
Introducing beneficial nematodes to your garlic crop is an effective way to control root insect and sucking pests. Beneficial nematodes are microscopic organisms that penetrate insect larvae, causing death. They also reduce the population of ants, termites, and other soil-dwelling pests. Beneficial nematodes are applied at the base of garlic plants, preferably early in the morning or late in the evening, when temperatures are low.
In conclusion, garlic can be an excellent source of income, but it requires proper care. By following the above pest control measures, you can protect your garlic crop from root insect and sucking pests. Crop rotation, proper soil management, use of biopesticides, application of beneficial nematodes, and use of insect traps are all effective ways to control pests in garlic crop. Always consult with a professional when using chemical pesticides and follow the instructions carefully to ensure proper application and safety.