Keep check on maize crop to avoid pests: Experts

Tribune News Service

Ludhiana, September 22

Experts of the Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) have advised farmers to regularly take a survey of their maize crop, especially the late sown crop, and take up management measures if they spot fall armyworm pest.

Dr PK Chhuneja, head, Department of Entomology, PAU, said, “Fall armyworm, an invasive insect-pest, has been found infesting maize in Punjab since mid-June. A single female moth of the pest can lay more than 1,000 eggs, and within a month, its next generation can be observed in the fields. However, timely sown grain maize received limited pest incidence.”

Based on experience, the pest incidence in the coming days on fodder maize was imminent, he said. “Weather conditions in September and October are favourable for the infestation of the pest. So, farmers are advised to regularly survey their fields and adopt control measures at the appearance of the pest,” he said.

He suggested maintaining crop health by using recommended doses of fertilizers and irrigation. “Farmers must ensure a waiting period of 21 days (after spray) before harvest to ensure the safety of animals,” Dr Chhuneja added.