Effect of intercropping and push-pull system compared with monocropping for the #fallarmyworm management

Effect of intercropping and push-pull system compared with monocropping for the #fallarmyworm management

Research says compared with maize monocropping, intercropping with legumes, Phaseolus vulgaris L. var. Roscoco can reduce the larval population by enhancing mortality rate. Underlying mechanisms are antixenosis and antibiosis effects along with trichome-based plant defence mechanisms. 

In the push-pull system, planting Silverleaf desmodium, Desmodium uncinatum as intercrop “push crop” can repel FAW moth because of the volatile chemicals produced by Demodium plant. Desmodium also causes an antixenosis effect on the #fallarmyworm larvae and may act as a physical barrier for the larval movement. Planting Brachiaria brizantha cv Xaraes in the perimeter of the field can act as “pull crop”. Hence, Brachiaria cv Xaraes is the promising trap crop for the management of FAW in the push-pull system. However, further studies with a broader range of plants would be necessary.