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Cardamom stem borer (Conogethes punctiferalis)

The shoot and capsule borer Conogethes punctiferalis is the most damaging pest of small cardamom, causing 70-80% yield loss as larvae tunnel into shoots, panicles and capsules. ICAR-IISR-validated management uses diafenthiuron 50 WP @ 300 g a.i./ha and rotation with chlorantraniliprole 0.01%, lambda-cyhalothrin 0.01% or flubendiamide 0.02% at fortnightly intervals.

Identification and biology

  • Yield Loss: 70-80% yield loss when uncontrolled
  • Chemical Control: diafenthiuron 50 WP @ 300 g a.i./ha; chlorantraniliprole/flubendiamide rotation
  • IPM Module: NPDNP sequence (Neem-Profenofos-Diafenthiuron-Neem-Profenofos)
  • Damage Site: shoots, stems, panicles, capsules

Management

The neem-profenofos-diafenthiuron sequence (NPDNP) is the recommended IPM module along with field sanitation and conservation of natural enemies.

See also: Cardamom Small, Cardamom Leaf Blight, Cardamom Root Rot, Cardamom Shade Management, Cardamom Curing Grading.

References

  1. Management of cardamom borer with diafenthiuron - Int J Pest Mgmt. https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/09670874.2018.1468579
  2. Neem-based IPM modules for cardamom borer and thrips. https://scialert.net/fulltext/?doi=ajbs.2013.142.152