Mealy bug hits cotton crop in Punjab

Ludhiana, Aug 8 (UNI) Cotton growers in Punjab are worried as incidenta of mealy bug have been reported on cotton in Bhatinda, Muktsar and Ferozepur districts of the border state.

Mealy bug is a small oval- shaped insect with a wax like material covering its body. The insect sucks sap from stem, leaves, flower buds and young bolls of cotton that results in retarded growth of the plant.

Mealy bug causes serious damage to cotton affecting the yield.

Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) scientists have suggested that farmers should spray the cotton crop with Carbaryl or Thiodicard. If the attack is severe, a second spray may be done with Profenophos of Quinalphos or Acephate or Chlorphyriphos.

Scientists have suggested that farmers should use about 125 litres to 150 litres of water mixed with the prescribed pesticides for one acre. The stems and twigs should also be sprayed.

Farmers have also been advised to check the growth of Congress grass in and around cotton fields.The mealy bug finds the Congress grass an ideal 'resting place'.

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