Black gram is an important pulse crop and is widely cultivated in Asia, particularly in India. However, there are various pests that pose serious threats to black gram production. Two of the most significant pests are the leaf eating caterpillar and the pod borer.
The leaf eating caterpillar feeds on the leaves of the black gram plant, causing significant damage to the plant. The caterpillar is usually brown or green in color and has a rough looking skin. They can be about two to three inches long and are easily identified by the holes they make on leaves.
On the other hand, the pod borer feeds on the developing pods of black gram. The larvae of the pod borer feeds on the seeds inside the pod, leading to significant damage in crop yield. The pod borer has a brownish-black body and measures about one inch long. They are easily identified by the presence of black frass or droppings that are left within the pod.
To effectively control the leaf eating caterpillar and the pod borer, farmers can adopt several management techniques. The first step is to monitor the crop and identify the pests at an early stage. Farmers may also use trap crops to attract these pests and draw them away from their main crops. Insecticides can also be applied to control the pest populations, but farmers should follow the recommended dosage and timing to avoid harming the crop and the environment.
Another important step is to practice good crop management practices such as crop rotation, intercropping, and the use of resistant varieties. These practices are effective in controlling pests while maintaining good crop quality and yield.
In conclusion, black gram farmers must be vigilant and proactive in managing the leaf eating caterpillar and pod borer. Effective pest management techniques can significantly reduce crop damage and contribute to a healthy and productive crop yield.