Huang Shougua, commonly known as yellow hawkthorn, melon hawkthorn, or melon leaf insect, is one of the most widespread and damaging pests in melon cultivation. This pest affects both adult and larval stages, causing significant harm to the plant. Adult Huang Shougua primarily feed on leaves, creating circular or half-circular feeding patterns, and can even sever young seedlings or consume flowers and tender leaves. The larvae are semi-burrowing and often cluster around the roots and fruits of melons. Initially, they eat multiple layers of tissue, and as they grow, they burrow into the fruit's skin, causing severe damage. Root damage leads to stunted growth or even plant death.
The adult Huang Shougua has strong heat tolerance but weak cold resistance, which is why it causes more damage in southern regions compared to the north. Winter cold is a crucial factor that limits the population of this pest in the following season.
To manage Huang Shougua effectively, control should focus on preventing adult egg-laying and reducing adult populations. Here are some recommended methods:
1. Early intervention is key. During the 4–5 true-leaf stage of the melon plants, before the peak of adult activity, take action to reduce adult damage.
2. During the adult egg-laying period, when dew is still present, sprinkle wood ash, sawdust, grain bran, or lime powder near the base of the plants. This helps prevent eggs from hatching.
3. Manually capture adult moths during early morning or on cloudy days when they are less active. Look for infected leaves and collect them under the foliage.
4. Apply insecticides when the seedlings have developed 4–5 true leaves. Use 90% trichlorfon at 800–1000 times dilution or 50% dichlorvos EC diluted 1000 times to spray the plants.
5. For severe larval infestations, apply 50% dichlorvos EC at 1000 times dilution or use 90% trichlorfon at 1500 times dilution to water the roots directly. This helps control the larvae effectively.
By combining these strategies, farmers can significantly reduce the impact of Huang Shougua and protect their melon crops from serious damage. Regular monitoring and timely action are essential for successful pest management.
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