The main insect pests of pigeon pea and their treatments are:
Pod borer (Maruca vitrata) and Leaf folder (Cnaphalocrocis medinalis): Chemical control with insecticides such as chlorantraniliprole, emamectin benzoate, or synthetic pyrethroids can be effective in controlling this pest and leaf folders.
Stem fly (Melanagromyza obtusa) and Shoot fly (Atherigona soccata): Crop rotation and the use of insecticides such as imidacloprid, lambda-cyhalothrin, and carbofuran can help manage this pest.
Termites (Macrotermes spp.): Chemical control with insecticides such as chlorpyrifos or imidacloprid can be effective in controlling termites. Cultural practices such as crop residue removal and soil moisture maintenance can also aid in termite population reduction.
Aphids (Aphis craccivora): Aphids can be controlled by releasing natural enemies such as ladybirds and green lacewings, as well as using insecticides such as imidacloprid or acetamiprid.
Thrips (Thrips palmi): The use of resistant varieties, the release of natural enemies such as predatory mites, and the application of insecticides such as spinosad or imidacloprid can all help control thrips.
