Control of Stem Borer in Rice Crop During Summer Season
Stem borer is a very harmful insect in rice crops, especially during the hot summer season. The larvae enter the stem and feed inside, which causes the plant to dry or produce empty panicles.
Identification of Stem Borer in Rice
Symptoms:
- The central leaf dries up in young plants (Dead Heart)
- The plant can be easily pulled out
- White or empty panicles in mature plants (White Ear)
- Small holes can be seen on the stem
Reasons for Stem Borer Attack in Summer
- High temperature
- Excess moisture in the field
- Excess nitrogen fertilizer (Urea)
- Continuous rice cultivation
Preventive Measures
1. Field Sanitation
- Remove old rice stubbles
- Do deep ploughing of the field
- This destroys eggs and larvae
2. Balanced Fertilizer Use
- Do not apply too much urea
- Apply potash fertilizer
- It makes the plant stronger
Example:
- Apply urea in limited quantity
- Apply MOP (Potash) 20–25 kg per acre
3. Use Pheromone Traps
- Install 4–5 traps per acre
- Male insects get trapped
- Reduces pest population
4. Biological Control
If pest attack is low:
- Spray Neem oil 5 ml per liter of water
- Or use neem-based insecticide
Chemical Control (Most Effective)
1. Chlorantraniliprole 18.5% SC
- Dose: 60–80 ml per acre
- Water: 150 liters
- Very effective against stem borer
- Spray when pest is observed
2. Cartap Hydrochloride 50% SP
- Dose: 400 grams per acre
- Provides good control
3. Fipronil 5% SC
- Dose: 400–500 ml per acre
- Effective at early stage
Best Time for Spraying
- 20–25 days after transplanting
- When pest is first seen
- Spray in the evening
Important Precautions
- Do not spray in strong sunlight
- Do not repeat the same pesticide every time
- Maintain water level in the field
- Use the correct dose
Early Detection Tips
Check the field every 3–4 days:
- If a dry leaf is seen, open the stem
- Larvae will be visible inside