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Overview The Cotton Bollworm (Helicoverpa armigera) is a major insect pest of cotton. The larvae feed on squares, flowers, and bolls, causing them to drop off or fail to produce quality cotton lint.
Key Symptoms - Holes in Bolls: Larvae chew neat circular holes into cotton bolls and feed on the internal seeds. - Flared Squares: Damaged flower buds (squares) turn yellow and open prematurely (flare) before dropping.
Management 1. Pheromone Traps: Install pheromone traps at 5 per acre to monitor moth activity. 2. Chemical Control: Spray Chlorantraniliprole 18.5 SC (0.3 ml/L) or Emamectin Benzoate 5 SG (0.4 g/L) if bollworm threshold is exceeded.
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Prepared by KhetiSetu Agri-Expert
KhetiSetu Plant Clinic Expert Team verifying and curating agricultural disease data for farmers.