Hessian fly infestation in wheat can be controlled through a combination of cultural, biological, and chemical methods. Here are some effective measures you can take to control Hessian fly infestation in wheat:
1. Plant resistant cultivars: Planting Hessian fly-resistant wheat varieties is the most effective way to prevent infestation. These cultivars have genes that provide resistance to the Hessian fly and reduce the risk of damage.
2. Crop rotation: Rotate wheat with non-host crops, such as corn or soybeans, to break the Hessian fly's life cycle and reduce the population.
3. Tillage: Deep tillage in the fall can bury Hessian fly pupae and reduce the population.
4. Delayed planting: Delay planting wheat until after the fly-free date, which is the first frost in the fall or the first week of October, in areas where the Hessian fly is a problem.
5. Insecticides: Insecticides can be used to control Hessian fly infestation, but they should be used as a last resort after other methods have been tried. Consult your local agricultural extension service for the recommended insecticides and application rates.
6. Biological control: Parasitic wasps and beneficial fungi can be used to control Hessian fly populations. These natural enemies can be introduced into the field or encouraged through crop management practices.
It is important to monitor your wheat fields regularly for Hessian fly infestation and take early action if an infestation is detected. A combination of these methods can help control Hessian fly infestation and protect your wheat crop.
there are several methods like cultural control through crop rotation. biological control and use of resistant varieties are also applicable moreover, chemical control by using pesticides.
The use of bio-pesticides is the sustainable method to control the infestation of Hessain fly.
My Lab at NIBGE, Pakistan, is working with some strains of Trichoderma spp. as bio-pesticides for control of BLB causal agent in rice, chickpea wilt disease, Sugarcane red rot, potato scab, as they have been screened to produce broad range of metabolites.
Both seed priming or folliar application are effective to apply