Cotton is a critical crop that is cultivated worldwide for its desirable properties such as the excellent durability, comfort, and appealing visual aspect of the fiber. As a result, it has a significant contribution to national income and foreign trade. Insect pests are one of the significant factors that reduce cotton yields and quality in numerous cotton-growing regions globally. The Jassid, white fly, and thrips are the most devastating pests that can threaten cotton crops. This article provides essential information regarding how to control jassid, white fly, and thrips in cotton.
Jassid Control:
Jassid (Amrasca biguttula) is one of the most common pests in cotton growing regions. To control jassid infestation, early detection of the insect is essential. It can be identified by the curled leaves and small white spots on the leaves’ underside. Integrated pest management (IPM) is a practical approach to control jassid infestation in cotton. This approach includes biological control, crop rotation, and use of compatible pesticides. The use of resistant varieties like Coker 310, Signet 6511, and check cultivars are an effective way of managing Jassid. Insecticides such as imidacloprid, abamectin, and buprofezin can be used during the early stages of cotton growth to control jassid infestation.
White Fly Control:
Whiteflies (Bemisia tabaci) in cotton can lead to a severe infestation that can cause stunted cotton growth, silvering leaves, and yellowing of the cotton bolls. The use of yellow sticky traps can help monitor whitefly activity in the cotton field. Effective whitefly control in cotton involves the use of a combination of management techniques. The management techniques include crop rotation, use of resistant varieties, introduction of biological control agents, and compatible insecticides. Imidacloprid, pyriproxyfen, and thiamethoxam are some of the insecticides that are effective for control of whitefly infestation in cotton.
Thrips Control:
Thrips (Thrips tabaci) are common pests in cotton that cause significant economic losses by stunting cotton growth and transmitting plant viruses. Some of the symptoms of thrips infestation include silvering of leaves, distorted plant growth, and darkened bolls. There are different ways of controlling thrips in cotton, including cultural control and chemical control. Cultural control includes practices such as crop rotation, early planting, and the use of reflective mulch to deter thrips from the cotton plants. Chemical control methods include the use of insecticides such as imidacloprid, profenofos, and acephate that are effective against thrips infestation in cotton.
In conclusion, effective management of jassid, white fly, and thrips in cotton requires early identification and a combination of management practices, including the use of resistant varieties, crop rotation, biological control, and compatible pesticides. Farmers can achieve better cotton yields by adopting integrated pest management practices, which can reduce the use of chemical pesticides and increase crop yields. It is crucial to consult with local agricultural extension experts for advice on the best strategies for jassid, white fly, and thrips control that are safe, effective, and environmentally friendly.