Srinagar, Sep 14: A team of experts from the Division of Entomology, SKUAST-K, Shalimar paid a visit to apple orchards of Sirhama Block Srigufara District Anantnag and adjoining areas along with the officials of the Department of Horticulture, GoJK for assessment of damage due to Apple Leaf Blotch Miner (ABLM).
The team recorded 5-10 percent infestation of ABLM in different orchards. The orchardists and other stakeholders were made aware about managing the ABLM at community level. Orchardists were asked to strickly adhere to the ad hoc advisory issued by SKUAST-K as it is of paramount importance in curbing the pest. The team stressed upon the collective approach in managing the pest and laid emphasis on spraying of insecticides in all the affected orchards, so that no residual population survives in an unsprayed orchard that may serve as inoculum for the next year.
On-spot control measures as detailed below were given to the orchardists. Director, Department of Horticulture, GoJK graced the occasion by his presence.
Control measures: Survey and Monitoring of the affected orchards, Mass awareness about the pest among the farmers, Proper sanitation in the vicinity of the orchard, Collection of fallen leaves/ fruits/other debris and their subsequent destruction, scrapping of loose bark for exposing the pupa from tree trunks followed by its destruction and post-harvest spray with Quinalphos 25% EC on tree trunks @ 100 ml/ 100 litres of water.
