Pod borer infestation generally occurs from the late vegetative to reproductive stages in the green gram plant, i.e., from flowering to the pod formation stage.
Yield losses may range between 30-40% in cases of moderate to severe infestations, especially when the pest attacks during the early pod formation stage.
Damage Symptoms:
Flowers, young pods, and seeds are attacked by larvae, causing damage to the pods.
Holes on pods are visible, with the seeds inside being eaten.
Heavy infestations result in substantial flower and pod drop, leading to reduced yields.
Stunted growth of green gram plants and twisted, shrivelled pods may also occur.
Preventive Measures:
Install pheromone traps.
Control Measures:
Use a foliar spray of neem-based insecticides or Bt formulations during the flowering stage.
Spray 0.3 ml/l of chlorantraniliprole or 0.4 g/l of emamectin benzoate during the pod formation stage.
