- Type of Infestation: Pest
- Common Name: Sunflower capitulum borer
- Causal Organism: Helicoverpa armigera
- Affected Parts Of the plant: Leaf, Head and Seeds
- The female moth lays her eggs on the leaves, buds, or flowers of the sunflower plant.
- The eggs hatch in a few days, and the larvae begin to feed on the plant.
- They initially feed on the leaves, but they eventually move to the flower head, where they bore into the seeds.
- This feeding can damage the seeds and reduce the yield of the crop.
- Temperature: Sunflower capitulum borer prefers warm temperatures, with optimal development occurring between 20-30°C.
- Humidity: Moderate humidity levels (50-70%) are favorable for the development of sunflower capitulum borer.
- Feeding on leaves and capitulum: The larvae initially feed on the tender leaves of the sunflower plant. As they mature, they move towards the developing flower head (capitulum) and start feeding on the developing seeds. This feeding activity can cause holes in the capitulum and damage the developing seeds.
- Rotting of the head: The feeding activity of the larvae can also create entry points for fungal diseases. This can lead to the rotting of the flower head, further reducing seed yield and quality.
- Presence of frass: Frass, which is the insect's excrement, may be present around the feeding sites on the leaves and capitulum.
- Presence of the larvae: If you inspect the capitulum closely, you may be able to see the green or brown caterpillars feeding on the seeds.
| Products | Technical Names | Dosages |
| EMA5 | Emamectin benzoate 5 % SG | 60-80 gm/acre |
| Docter 505 | Chloropyriphos 50 % + cypermethrin 5 % EC | 300 ml per acre |
| Fluben | Flubendiamide 39.35 % sc | 40-50ml/acre |
| Aakramak | Novaluron 5.25% + Emamectin benzonate 9 % w/w SC | 350 ml/Acre |
