Description:

• Stem borer infestation typically occurs in older brinjal plants, targeting the stem.

Damage Symptoms:

• The caterpillar enters the stem near the ground level, usually at the leaf or branch axil, and seals the hole with excreta and frass.
• Branches begin to wilt following the attack.
• Affected plants exhibit stunted growth.
• In severe cases, the entire plant wilts and dries out.

Preventive Measures:

• Avoid ratooning.
• Uproot and burn infected brinjal plants before planting a new crop to prevent the pest from carrying over to the next season.

Control Measures:

• Foliar spray with carbaryl at 3 g/l or monocrotophos at 1.6 ml/l.