adminTakudzwa Chiwereweshe Mutare Correspondent
THE fall armyworm — a pest notorious for destroying cereal crops and green pastures has invaded Manicaland — prompting agronomists to urge farmers to continue applying the right chemicals to save their crops.
Agronomists said farmers should be alert and kill the pest upon detection since small ones are much easier to kill than larger ones. The armyworm outbreak has caused panic within farming communities in the province following severe attack of crops and velds by the devastating armyworms.
The fall armyworm is a chronic pest that feeds on a variety of well-fertilised crops such as maize, pearl millet, sorghum and pastures. The pest, which can wreak havoc in fields if left to multiply, derives its name from its feeding habits. It eats everything in an area and once the food supply is exhausted, the entire “army” will move to the next available food source.
“The fall armyworm is a menace because it thrives in all weather conditions; it is highly resistant and multiplies at an alarming rate.
“We thought the rains would curb it, but it has alarmingly become worse multiplying at an alarming pace,” said Mr Renaisence Makoni, a farmer in Rusape. Reports indicate that farmers continue to adopt methods like spraying and handpicking.
Spraying has only been effective to some extent as the fall armyworm is highly resistant, with farmers having to change about four pesticides before finding the most effective one.
Farmers are, however, decrying the high cost of pesticides, and some are left forcing some to helplessly watch as the pest devours their crop.
Pesticides cost between $15 and $50. Zimbabwe Famers Union provincial manager Mr Daniel Mungazi said the fall armyworm battle is ongoing and that the most effective method is chemical control.
“The rains have done little to improve the battle with fall armyworm. Though the rains improved the crops, it is still imperative for farmers to continue to apply chemicals in order to combat fall armyworm,” he said. Mr Mungazi indicated said the rains were too late and the chances of the yield improving are slim.
“However, as farmers we remain optimistic and farmers should take the initiative to salvage as much of the crop situation as possible”
“Alternatively, those who do not have the income to implement irrigation mechanisms should opt to produce small grains like sugar beans, which are likely to fare well in the present circumstances,” he said. Mr Mungazi expressed optimism the onset of rains will improve water levels in reservoirs and pastures for livestock.
Online Reporter