Lemon Cultivation: Do this hard work to save lemon trees from dangerous pests

Lemon Cultivation: Growing lemons has now become a reliable source of income for many farmers in Saurashtra. Lemon sales have been going well for some time now and as a result, farmers’ interest in growing their own crops has increased significantly. Meanwhile, a new problem called Psylla or Scab disease has disrupted lemon orchards.

Negative effect of Psylla disease on crop

Psylla is a type of insect on lemon trees. This epidemic causes the leaves to wither, the branches to dry up, and the fruits to suffer. If the effect of the disease is not stopped in time, the entire orchard may be damaged, and the farmer’s hard work may go to waste.

Initial stage of treatment Cleaning and pruning

According to experts from the Krishi Vigyan Kendra, it is necessary to cut the dry and diseased branches of lemon trees from time to time. This prevents the disease from spreading and ensures the tree’s health remains safe. Regular cleaning and inspection of the orchard is also important.

First of all, use natural remedies for prevention

If the effect of the disease has already started, then home and cheap remedies can also be very helpful. Experts in agriculture suggest using 10% extract (1 kg) from neem and naphtha leaves or 5% extract (500 grams) from crushed neem seeds. Apart from this, the use of organic pesticides made from neem is also successful. For example, the disease can be initially controlled by spraying 0.15% EC (40 ml) or 1% EC (30 ml) of neem mixed in 15 liters of water.

Natural remedies

Scientists have recommended the use of pesticides if the disease has spread and natural remedies are failing to stop it. For example, spraying imidacloprid 17 SL (5 ml) or thiamethoxam 25 WG (6 grams) mixed in 15 liters of water affects the pest immediately.

Take help of professionals in emergency situations

As soon as the disease becomes unbearable and severe symptoms start appearing in the crop, farmers should contact the nearest Krishi Vigyan Kendra or agricultural expert. The disease can be managed immediately with the guidance and medicines received from there.

Prevention is the best prevention

Krishi Vigyan Kendra claims that if farmers inspect their lemon orchards from time to time, cut any branches and use proper pesticides, then Psylla disease can be avoided. Moreover, neem-based natural medicines are affordable and environmentally friendly.