Fall Armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) continues to be one of the most damaging pests in maize. Due to warmer temperatures and prolonged dry spells this season, FAW activity has increased, especially during the early vegetative stages of maize.
How to Identify Early Symptoms ?
- Small “shot-hole” patterns on leaves
- Scraped leaf surfaces (window-pane appearance)
- Fresh frass (sawdust-like excreta) inside the whorl
- Young caterpillars hiding in the whorl during daytime
Early identification is crucial because FAW spreads rapidly
Control
Use only when pest load crosses ETL (5% plant infestation)
- Spinetoram 11.7% SC @ 0.5 ml/l
- Emamectin Benzoate 5% SG @ 0.4 g/l
- Chlorantraniliprole 18.5% SC @ 0.3 ml/l
- Lambda Cyhalothrin 5% EC @ 0.75 ml/l (NS Haloshield 5)
All sprays should be directed into the whorl for best efficacy.
