Cabbage is often targeted by the diamondback moth (Plutella xylostella) (DBM), and an infestation of this pest can ruin an entire harvest. But a remarkably effective parasitoid wasp called Cotesia vestalis can rid the crop of DBM larvae.
A number of other parasitoids attack DBMs, but I find C. vestalis to be the most abundant and effective. However, very few cabbage farmers know about the role that this predator can play in an IPM programme. I’m also unaware of any company that produces it for this purpose.
Unfortunately, because there are no representatives doing the rounds to sell parasitoids and provide information on their management to farmers, there has been relatively little interest in IPM.
This story is from the October 02, 2020 edition of Farmer's Weekly.
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This story is from the October 02, 2020 edition of Farmer's Weekly.
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