The taste of mangoes is loved by everyone during the summer, but the months of April and May are very critical for mango orchards. During this time, the fruit fly, one of the most harmful pests, starts damaging the crop. This tiny insect can destroy ripe and semi-ripe mangoes, causing huge losses to farmers. It also affects the export of mangoes, leading to crores of rupees in losses for the country.
From April to May, the fruit fly lays eggs on the outer skin of the mango. After hatching, the larvae (maggots) enter the fruit and feed on its pulp. This spoils the fruit from inside and makes it unfit for sale in the market. If not controlled in time, it can ruin the entire crop, especially for those farmers who depend on exports for higher profits.
One of the most effective and chemical-free ways to control fruit flies is by using pheromone traps. Farmers can install 15-20 traps per hectare in shady parts of the trees. These traps should be refreshed with new scent every 6 to 10 weeks. Traps are available in the market, or they can be made at home easily.
These traps work using the Male Annihilation Technique (MAT) – attracting and killing only the male flies. Without males, females cannot reproduce, which stops the infestation. Along with traps, farmers should collect and bury infected fruits, keep the orchards clean, and only use light sprays of Deltamethrin or Dimethoate when absolutely necessary.
Important Advice for Farmers: If farmers stay alert and adopt scientific and natural methods on time, they can save their mango crops from this dangerous pest. This ensures better fruit quality, good market prices, and smooth export opportunities – helping farmers earn more and reduce losses.
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