The rapid multiplication of the fall armyworm on crops is caused by a lack of rains and the increased temperature
As usual, many farmers will rush to buy chemicals to control the pests but most of the pesticides available in the market are not effective because they kill and destroy larvae and leave the eggs in which later hatch and continue damaging the crop
Experts have discovered that organic control methods are very effective in the control of army worms. The following are some of the bio-pesticides farmers can use to control the fall army worms and other pests especially in maize:
Nimbecidine
This neem-based biopesticide is an ant-feedant meaning that the pest cannot feed on the target crop, Nimbecidine also interferes with the pest's ability to lay eggs. This is effective at controlling the fall armyworm, aphids, leaf miners and even nematodes in maize, cabbages, potatoes and more.
Pyrethrum
Farmers who opt to use pyrethrum should pick the flowers on a warm day when the flowers are open, then dry and store them in an airtight container in the dark (light reduces the effectiveness of the flowers). Later the dried flower can be ground into a powder mix 20g of pyrethrum powder with 10 liters of water, add soap and apply in the evening, when the fall armyworms come out to feed.
Garlic
Like neem, garlic has anB-‐feedant properBes and can also repel most pests. Mix 85g of crushed garlic with 50ml of vegetable oil, then add 10ml of liquid soap (use bar soap), allow the mixture to stand for 24hrs, then spray.
