As a farmer, one of the challenges you may face in garlic cultivation is the presence of sucking pests. These are tiny insects that can cause great damage to your garlic crops if not controlled in time. However, with the right measures in place, you can efficiently manage the infestation for a healthy and productive yield. In this article, we discuss how to control sucking pests in garlic crops.
1. Identify the sucking pests
Before embarking on any control measures, you need first to identify the type of sucking pests on your garlic crop. The most common sucking pests that attack garlic crops are aphids, thrips, and mites. All of them feed on the garlic plant sap, ultimately causing leaf distortion, sooty mold growth, and reduced yield. Identifying the pests is essential in selecting the most suitable control measures.
2. Apply Neem oil
Neem oil is a biopesticide that is effective in controlling sucking pests in garlic crops. The oil works by disrupting the feeding habits of the pest, killing them eventually. Neem oil is also harmless to the plants, animals, and the environment. To apply, mix the neem oil with water in the recommended ratio and spray it to the garlic plants. Repeat the process weekly until the pest population is under control.
3. Use Insecticidal soap
Insecticidal soap is a low-toxic chemical that can control sucking pests in garlic crops. The soap works by dissolving the pest’s soft outer covering, leading to dehydration and death. Before using the insecticidal soap, ensure that it is suitable for use on garlic crops. Prepare the solution according to the manufacturer’s specifications, and spray it evenly on the garlic plants. Repeat the process after every 7-10 days to reduce re-infestation.
4. Practice crop rotation
Crop rotation is a sustainable way of managing sucking pests in garlic crops. It involves alternating garlic cultivation with different crops from season to season to break the pest’s life cycle. Sucking pests prefer a particular plant species, and if the host crops are not available, they will die off naturally. This method also improves soil fertility and reduces soil-borne diseases.
5. Introduce beneficial insects
Beneficial insects are natural enemies of sucking pests in garlic crops. They prey on the pests and help to regulate their population. Some of the beneficial insects that target sucking pests include ladybugs, lacewings, and parasitic wasps. To encourage their presence, plant flowering plants that attract them and avoid the use of broad-spectrum insecticides that can harm them.
In conclusion, controlling sucking pests in garlic crops is crucial in ensuring a profitable yield. It requires a combination of different measures that are sustainable and effective. As a farmer, it is essential to identify the sucking pests early and select the most appropriate control method to avoid crop damage. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using chemicals and wear protective gear to prevent contamination.