Researchers introduce new cost-effective biopesticide to manage armyworms
The Star
2023.12.20
Approximately 582 farmers in Machakos were trained to produce baculorvirus-based insecticides to manage the worm.The training was conducted by researchers from the Centre for Agriculture and Bioscience International regional centre for Africa, during a farmer’s field event in Machakos county. The researchers said farmers mainly rely on synthetic pesticides, which are expensive and are not able to eradicate the invasive pest.
Despite collective efforts from the government, scientific organisations, and academia to curb the spread and impact of the fall armyworm, there is a significant gap in farmers’ knowledge and management of the pest and effective management.
Rwomushana said the biopesticide will benefit farmers who cannot afford to purchase the commercial product every season. He said a 100ml bottle of the biopesticide, which retails at Sh1, 500, should be applied in the early stages of maize growth.
The ratio of the mixture should be 100ml/ha in 250 litres of water or 8ml in 20 litres of water.
Approximately 582 farmers in Machakos were trained to produce baculorvirus-based insecticides to manage the worm.The training was conducted by researchers from the Centre for Agriculture and Bioscience International regional centre for Africa, during a farmer’s field event in Machakos county. The researchers said farmers mainly rely on synthetic pesticides, which are expensive and are not able to eradicate the invasive pest.
Despite collective efforts from the government, scientific organisations, and academia to curb the spread and impact of the fall armyworm, there is a significant gap in farmers’ knowledge and management of the pest and effective management.
Rwomushana said the biopesticide will benefit farmers who cannot afford to purchase the commercial product every season. He said a 100ml bottle of the biopesticide, which retails at Sh1, 500, should be applied in the early stages of maize growth.
The ratio of the mixture should be 100ml/ha in 250 litres of water or 8ml in 20 litres of water.
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