Measures to Control Capitulum borer Pest in Sunflower crop

26 February 2024

The Sunflower capitulum borer, also known as the gram pod borer or the cotton bollworm, is a moth species (Helicoverpa armigera) that is a major pest of many crops, including sunflowers. The capitulum borer can also cause the flower head to rot, which can further reduce the yield of the crop. In addition, the larvae can carry fungal diseases that can infect the sunflower plants.

Type of Infestation: Pest
Common Name: Sunflower capitulum borer
Causal Organism: Helicoverpa armigera
Affected Parts Of the plant: Leaf, Head and Seeds

Identification:

The female moth lays her eggs on the leaves, buds, or flowers of the sunflower plant.
The eggs hatch in a few days, and the larvae begin to feed on the plant.
They initially feed on the leaves, but they eventually move to the flower head, where they bore into the seeds.
This feeding can damage the seeds and reduce the yield of the crop.

Environmental favorable factors for pests/Diseases:

Temperature: Sunflower capitulum borer prefers warm temperatures, with optimal development occurring between 20-30°C.
Humidity: Moderate humidity levels (50-70%) are favorable for the development of sunflower capitulum borer.

Symptoms of Pest/Disease:

Feeding on leaves and capitulum: The larvae initially feed on the tender leaves of the sunflower plant. As they mature, they move towards the developing flower head (capitulum) and start feeding on the developing seeds. This feeding activity can cause holes in the capitulum and damage the developing seeds.
Rotting of the head: The feeding activity of the larvae can also create entry points for fungal diseases. This can lead to the rotting of the flower head, further reducing seed yield and quality.
Presence of frass: Frass, which is the insect's excrement, may be present around the feeding sites on the leaves and capitulum.
Presence of the larvae: If you inspect the capitulum closely, you may be able to see the green or brown caterpillars feeding on the seeds.

Measures to control Pests/Diseases:

Products	Technical Names	Dosages
EMA5	Emamectin benzoate 5 % SG	60-80 gm/acre
Docter 505	Chloropyriphos 50 % + cypermethrin 5 % EC	300 ml per acre
Fluben	Flubendiamide 39.35 % sc	40-50ml/acre
Aakramak	Novaluron 5.25% + Emamectin benzonate 9 % w/w SC	350 ml/Acre