AGRICULTURAL NEWS - Fall armyworm (FAW) has now spread to potato crops, with the first infestation reported in the Loskop Valley near Marble Hall in Mpumalanga on 23 February.
The fall armyworm infestation was discovered in potato lands previously planted to a popcorn maize variety, near conventional (non- genetically modified) maize, according to a Potato SA statement.
Desiree van Heerden, insecticide development manager at Syngenta, said the young potato plants provided an alternative host to the maturing maize in the area, but further research was needed to confirm the FAW infestation.
The above-ground stems and growth tips were initially attacked and the caterpillars then tunnelled inside the tubers, before tunnelling into the stems underground.
Infested stems that were not cut off were notably smaller, wilted and appeared bluish, compared to those not affected, the statement said.
Desiree van Heerden, insecticide development manager at Syngenta, said the young potato plants provided an alternative host to the maturing maize in the area, but further research was needed to confirm the FAW infestation.
The above-ground stems and growth tips were initially attacked and the caterpillars then tunnelled inside the tubers, before tunnelling into the stems underground.
Infested stems that were not cut off were notably smaller, wilted and appeared bluish, compared to those not affected, the statement said.
