The use of wood ash and chili pepper has been reported to give good organic control of fall armyworm on maize.

The fine sifted dry cool ash is used in 2 kg quantity which is mixed with 3 tablespoons of chili pepper powder. The dry mixture is sifted in the maize whorl or funnel.

The use of push and pull intercropping is effective for stem borers and is also an excellent option for maize in the African organic systems.

Look for maize varieties which are tolerant to the damage and use some of these systems and see what works under your conditions.

Ashes are highly alkaline and irritant so avoid contact when applying. the potassium of ashes beside irritant are also able to stimulate the plant through nutrition to be more response to pest attacks.

Pests and diseases are highly stimulated in low potassium conditions.

The use of integrated control methods for Fall Army Worm might include the use of tolerant varieties. The use push and pull intercropping can reduce stem borers and is also helpful for FAW.

Ash is very abrasive and also alkaline. When the early larvae are developing their initial start of the digestive system is alkaline as they mature the digestive system get acid and is more conducive to control of bacteria such as Bacillus thuringuinensis. For the prevention of ear worm damage I would use diatomataceous earth mixed with Bacillus thuringensis and it was effective related to abrasive action alkalinity work to promote a natural biological control. I believe a similar mechanism is acting in ash. Ash is alkaline abrasive and in addition the presence of ashes has the ability to stimulate potassium uptake which enhances natural plant nutrition andresistance mechanisms. Hope some of these thoughts are useful for your conceptualization.