Stem borer, a group of insects belonging to the Lepidoptera family, is a major pest of rice crops. The larvae bore into the stems of young plants, causing serious damage that leads to stunted growth and reduced yields, with dead heart being one of the most common symptoms.
Dead heart is a condition in which the central shoot of the rice plant dies due to the damage caused by stem borers, leading to a reduction in yield productivity. To control stem borers and prevent dead heart, farmers need to adopt an integrated pest management approach that includes the use of resistant varieties, cultural practices, and chemical pesticides.
Here are some effective management strategies for controlling stem borers to prevent dead heart:
1. Plant resistant varieties
Planting resistant varieties is one of the most effective and eco-friendly ways of preventing the incidence of stem borers that cause dead heart. Resistant varieties can significantly reduce the damage caused by stem borers, leading to higher yields. Meticulous attention should be given to planting the right variety that matches the climate condition and soil type to have better results.
2. Keep the field clean
Farmers should keep the field free from weeds, crop residues, and stubble. These act as hideouts and provides the pests with the ideal breeding ground. Keeping the field clean will prevent stem borers from multiplying, which can prevent dead heart.
3. Use pheromone traps
Pheromone traps are an effective method of controlling stem borer infestation in rice. These traps can lure and trap adult male stem borers, disrupting their breeding cycle and reducing the population. Fewer stem borers will translate to a lower chance of a dead heart.
4. Use biopesticides
Biopesticides such as neem-based products, effective microorganisms, and fungal pathogens can help control stem borers while having a minimal environmental impact. These pesticides are eco-friendly and can be sprayed on plants to prevent infestation.
5. Use chemical pesticides
Chemical pesticides can be used when stem borer infestation is severe. However, when using chemical pesticides, it is essential to choose an appropriate pesticide, dose and application time. Overuse can contribute to the rapid development of pest resistance and lead to many adverse effects that will ultimately lead to dead heart.
Overall, to control stem borers, farmers need to use a combination of cultural, biological and synthetic control methods. By integrating these methods, farmers can reduce the incidence of stem borers and prevent the occurrence of dead heart in their rice fields.