Termites and armyworms are two major pests that cause serious damage to wheat crops in many parts of India. Termites attack the crop below the soil surface by feeding on the roots and stems, while armyworms damage the leaves and reduce the plant’s ability to grow and produce healthy grains. If not controlled in time, both pests can lead to patchy fields, weak plants, and sharp yield losses. With timely field management and proper pest-control strategies, farmers can protect their wheat crop effectively.
1. Identifying Termite Attack
Termites usually attack the crop from sowing till early growth stages.
Symptoms include:
Plants drying suddenly in small patches
Hollow stems due to feeding
Reduced tillering
Weak plants that pull out easily
Termites thrive in dry soil conditions and spread faster in fields with leftover crop residues.
2. Identifying Armyworm Damage
Armyworms feed on leaves during night hours.
Symptoms include:
Large portions of leaves eaten
Skeletonized leaves with only midrib left
Caterpillars hiding in soil cracks during the day
Quick spread across the field
Armyworm outbreaks often occur after rains or in moist, dense crop canopies.
Control of Termites in Wheat
3. Use Treated Seeds
Seed treatment is one of the best and simplest ways to prevent termite attack. Treating wheat seeds with recommended insecticides before sowing protects the crop for early growth stages.
4. Improve Soil Moisture
Termites multiply in dry conditions.
Provide light irrigation after sowing.
Avoid long dry spells, especially in sandy soils.
Maintaining soil moisture discourages termite activity.
5. Remove Crop Residues
Do not leave stubbles of previous crops in the field. Termites survive in residues and move to wheat after sowing. Deep ploughing helps expose termite nests to sunlight.
6. Apply Soil Insecticides (if required)
If termites are already present in the field, apply recommended soil insecticides at sowing or around termite-affected patches. Soil application gives quick control and prevents spreading.
Control of Armyworm in Wheat
7. Regular Field Monitoring
Check the crop early in the morning or late evening.
Look for caterpillars under leaves or hiding in soil cracks. Early detection helps avoid heavy outbreaks.
8. Maintain Clean Field Borders
Armyworm moths often lay eggs on nearby weeds.
Remove grasses along bunds and irrigation channels.
Keep field borders clean to reduce pest entry.
9. Use Light Traps
Light traps attract and kill adult moths. Installing light traps at night is an effective non-chemical method to reduce future armyworm populations.
10. Encourage Natural Predators
Birds, wasps, and beneficial insects feed on armyworms. Avoid spraying harsh pesticides unnecessarily, as these kill natural enemies.
11. Neem Spray for Early-Stage Caterpillars
Sprays of neem oil or neem seed kernel extract (NSKE) help control small armyworm larvae.
Neem reduces feeding activity and stops growth.
12. Chemical Control (only when necessary)
For severe infestations, use recommended insecticides.
Spray in the evening when caterpillars are active.
Ensure proper coverage of the lower canopy where pests hide.
Conclusion
Termite and armyworm management in wheat requires a combination of preventive and timely measures. Seed treatment, maintaining soil moisture, removing residues, clean field borders, and early monitoring are essential to control these pests. Neem sprays and natural predators help manage early infestations, while chemical options should be used only when absolutely needed. With proper care, farmers can protect their wheat crop and maintain healthy yields.
