Problem Solving

These tiny insects are the main vectors of viral diseases like Potato leaf loll, PVX and PVY which can reduce yields and quality. These insects attack the potato plants in the field and sometimes in storage (DLS). Aphids are controlled by spraying with Malathion 25 wp or Dimethoate 20wp. If applying Malathion, use 14g in 14 litres of water for knapsack sprayer or 14g in 1 litre of water for ULV sprayer. If using Dimethoate, apply 34g in 14 litres of water for knapsack sprayer or 34g in 1 litre of water for ULV sprayer.  Fields and storage areas should be scouted for aphids. In the field Examine aphids per leaf on 50 fully grown compound leaves (5 leaves at ten locations in the field) from top, middle and bottom of the canopy.

To deal with pests in DLS the following, are general requirements for potatoes intended for storage and the structures:

1. Clean the storage space or structure and treat it with recommended insecticides before bringing in the tubers for storage.
2. Select or remove all diseases and damaged tubers from potatoes intended for storage. Only healthy, sound and clean potatoes should be stored.
3. Control pests like Aphids and Potato Tuber Moth in storage by regular inspection and spraying with Malathion, Actellic dust and Dimethoate are also effective against Aphids and Tuber Moth larvae.                                                                                                                                    Take note that new pesticides may be available on markets that may effectively control pests in storage. It is also advisable  that the DLS may be dusted with Dithane M45 to control fungi.