Integrated pest management becomes key for cotton farmers in 2025
LAHORE: The Punjab Agriculture Department (PAD) has urged cotton farmers to regularly monitor their crops for pests and to apply pesticides only when the whitefly population reaches the economic threshold level.
A department spokesperson stated on Monday that weeds in and around cotton fields must be cleared, and regular pest scouting should also be extended to nearby host crops such as brinjal, cucumber, pumpkin, squash, chilli, okra, mung bean, and sesame to manage whitefly populations effectively.
The spokesperson further emphasized the need to apply nitrogen-based fertilizers according to the crop’s actual requirements and to avoid water stress by ensuring irrigation is aligned with the crop’s needs and the current weather conditions.
Farmers are also advised to install 15 to 20 sticky traps per acre at least 15 to 20 days before an anticipated infestation and to replace them every 15 days.
Additionally, 20 Chrysoperla biocards per acre—available from the Punjab Agriculture Department’s Biological Laboratories—should be used to aid in biological pest control.
For chemical control, farmers should consult local agricultural experts to select the recommended insecticides and follow correct application timing, dosage, and methods. Repeated use of the same type of pesticide should be avoided to reduce the risk of resistance.
To ensure effective spraying, farmers should aim for thorough coverage using power sprayers equipped with high-quality hollow cone nozzles and carry out spraying in the evening for optimal effectiveness, the spokesperson added.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is whitefly and why is it a threat to cotton crops in 2025?
Whitefly is a small insect pest that sucks sap from cotton plants, weakening them and transmitting viral diseases. In 2025, due to shifting weather patterns and increased pesticide resistance, whitefly infestations are becoming more frequent, posing a serious threat to cotton productivity in Punjab.
What is economic threshold level (ETL) in pest management?
ETL refers to the pest population level at which control measures should be initiated to prevent economic damage. PAD’s 2025 advisory emphasizes this concept to avoid unnecessary pesticide use and promote sustainable pest control practices.
Why is pest scouting essential for cotton farmers in 2025?
Pest scouting involves regular inspection of crops to detect early signs of infestation. Given rising pest resistance and climate variability in 2025, timely scouting allows farmers to take targeted actions, reducing costs and environmental harm.
What are sticky traps and how are they used in modern agriculture?
Sticky traps are colored adhesive surfaces that capture flying pests like whiteflies. In 2025, PAD advises using 15–20 traps per acre, reflecting a push toward eco-friendly, preventive pest management methods alongside chemical controls.
What is biological control in pest management?
Biological control uses natural enemies, like the Chrysoperla insect, to manage pests. PAD’s promotion of biocards in 2025 shows a shift toward integrated pest management (IPM) strategies to reduce pesticide reliance and increase crop sustainability.
How does weather affect irrigation needs in cotton farming?
Climate change in 2025 has increased the unpredictability of rainfall, making irrigation scheduling crucial. PAD advises farmers to align watering with crop stage and weather to avoid water stress, which weakens plants and increases susceptibility to pests.
What are the risks of overusing pesticides with the same chemistry?
Frequent use of the same type of pesticide leads to resistance in pest populations. PAD’s 2025 guidelines stress rotating pesticide classes to maintain efficacy, a key message amid growing concern over super-pests in South Asia.
Why should pesticides be sprayed in the evening?
Spraying in the evening helps avoid evaporation loss and protects beneficial insects active during the day. PAD’s advice reflects best practices in 2025 for maximizing pesticide impact while minimizing environmental harm.
What role do hollow cone nozzles play in pesticide spraying?
These nozzles ensure fine droplet coverage for effective spraying. In 2025, PAD recommends their use with power sprayers to ensure uniform pesticide distribution, a critical factor in combating resilient pest infestations.
How is the Punjab Agriculture Department supporting farmers in 2025?
PAD is actively issuing timely advisories, supplying biocontrol tools, and guiding farmers on sustainable pest management. This reflects a broader 2025 policy shift toward climate-smart agriculture and farmer education in Pakistan.
