Paddy farming is an essential agricultural activity worldwide as it serves as a staple food for over half of the world’s population. However, the cultivation process of paddy crops comes with challenges, such as the infestation of pests and diseases that often hinder the yield. One of the pests that farmers face is the leaf folder, which can cause extensive damage to paddy crops if not controlled early enough. In this article, we will provide information on how to control leaf folders in paddy crops.
Identification of Leaf Folder in Paddy crop
The first step in controlling the leaf folder in paddy crops is identifying its presence. The leaf folder is the larva of the moth that is yellowish-green in color with a dark stripe on its back. The adult moth is pale brown and has narrow, gray wings. The moth usually lays their eggs on the lower surface of the leaves. The larva ultimately folds the leaf and causes irreparable damage.
Cultural methods for Controlling Leaf Folder in Paddy crop
The cultural method is an environment-friendly approach to controlling plant pests. Some of the traditional agricultural practices for controlling leaf folder in paddy crop include;
1. Crop rotation
Crop rotation involves changing the variety of crops from time to time. This technique can control pests and diseases since the pests’ reproduction process may be interrupted by changing the crop variety.
2. Planting of resistant varieties
Planting resistant varieties is another effective way of preventing leaf folder infestation. Farmers can obtain resistant varieties of paddy crop or hybrid seeds and limit the infestation of leaf folder.
3. Sanitation practices
Sanitation practices, such as maintaining cleanliness in the crop field, removing weeds, and debris from the planting area, can reduce the risks of leaf folder infestation.
Mechanical methods for Controlling Leaf Folder in Paddy crop
The mechanical method of controlling leaf folder in paddy crop includes:
1. Hand picking
Hand picking, which involves physically removing the leaf folders from the paddy crop, is the most common technique. However, this approach may not be sufficient for larger farms and may require considerable additional labor.
2. Traps
Traps are also an effective way of capturing adult moths before laying eggs. Farmers can develop pheromone traps to attract and capture adult moths.
Chemical methods for Controlling Leaf Folder in Paddy crop
Chemical methods of controlling leaf folder in paddy crops include the use of insecticides and pesticides.
1. Use of insecticides
Insecticides such as organophosphates, carbamates, and synthetic pyrethroids are commonly used to kill the leaf folder’s larva. Farmers can apply the insecticide directly onto the plant. However, the overuse of insecticides can lead to insect resistance and environmental pollution.
2. Biopesticides
Biopesticides are an environmentally friendly alternative for controlling pests. Biopesticides, such as Beauveria bassiana and Bacillus thuringiensis, have been shown to be effective in controlling the leaf folder.
Conclusion
Controlling leaf folders in paddy crops is critical for a high yield of the plant. Farmers can adopt cultural methods, mechanical methods, and chemical methods to prevent the infestation of the leaf folder. The control method used should be safe, effective, and economically viable. Before using any chemical method, farmers should get in touch with agricultural extension officers to determine the right pesticide for their paddy crop.