Influence of farmers’ practices on fall armyworm infestation levels in maize fields

Abstract

The fall armyworm (FAW) (Spodoptera frugiperda) is an economically important recently introduced pest that is threatening maize production in sub-Saharan Africa. This study aimed to investigate the effect of current smallholder crop production practices on fall armyworm infestation in Uganda. A survey of 87 farms was conducted in cropping systems categorised as: maize monocrop (20 farms), maize+bean intercrop (18), maize+soybean intercrop (19), maize+cassava intercrop (20), and maize mixed with two or more companion crops (10). These were from the districts of Iganga (n=29), Mayuge (n=30) and Namutumba (n=28). The other management practices considered were pesticide application, intercropping intensity, and maize variety grown. Results indicated that FAW incidence of damage in farmers’ fields ranged from 64.5 to 99.1%, with moderate severity scores. Namutumba district had the highest incidence and severity whereas Iganga had the lowest. Pesticide application frequency and intercropping system interacted significantly to reduce FAW infestations; as did local varieties, and high intercropping intensity. The multi-crop (>3 crops) system had the lowest FAW infestation, and Maize+bean intercrop edged the other individual companion crop intercrops in lowering infestation by the FAW. These results provide a foundation for building an integrated pest management system for the FAW in Uganda