The diamondback moth (DBM; Plutella xylostella), which breeds prolifically and whose larvae are highly destructive, is the number one pest of brassicas in South Africa.
Young plants are particularly vulnerable. DBMs lay their eggs in small clusters on the young leaves and the larvae later hatch and eat holes in the leaves. These holes expand as the leaves grow, reducing the leaf area and, consequently, the yield.
The larvae prefer to feed on the underside of the leaves, leaving the upper epidermis in place; this gives the appearance of little translucent ‘windows’.
Because they feed under the leaves, especially when these leaves are just above the ground, it is extremely difficult to reach DBMs with insecticides.
この記事は Farmer's Weekly の 16 June 2023 版に掲載されています。
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この記事は Farmer's Weekly の 16 June 2023 版に掲載されています。
7 日間の Magzter GOLD 無料トライアルを開始して、何千もの厳選されたプレミアム ストーリー、8,500 以上の雑誌や新聞にアクセスしてください。
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