Aphid, commonly known as leek moth, is a serious underground pest that affects the production of leeks across Fujian Province. It thrives in all regions and completes four life cycles annually, typically appearing in early May, mid-June, early August, and late September. The adult insects lay their eggs in soil cracks or clods near leek fields. Once hatched, the larvae burrow into the bulbs and tender stems of the leeks, causing the young shoots to rot and the leaves to turn yellow and die. This damage significantly impacts both the yield and quality of leeks. As we enter the critical season for managing these pests in the fall, it's essential to understand their biological traits and effective control methods.
First, let's explore the biological characteristics of the leek aphid. The larvae are head-shaped, measuring 6 to 9 mm in length, with a black head and milky-white bodies. Their surface is smooth, with a pointed front end and a slightly flattened back. Adult aphids are small, weak fliers that avoid light and often gather in groups. After mating, they lay eggs in the soil close to the roots of leeks, typically 3 to 4 cm below the surface. These eggs feed on the pseudostems and bulbs of the plants. The larvae prefer moist, juicy tissues, making wetlands and loamy soils particularly vulnerable to infestation.
Second, for prevention and control, it’s currently the peak time for aphid activity in open fields. A common method involves using 20% guanidine EC, applying 1 kg per mu (approximately 667 square meters), diluted 100 to 200 times. Alternatively, 500 ml of Shennongbao or 0.75 to 1 kg of 50% phoxim can be mixed with water and poured into the field. In greenhouses and protected environments, two rounds of treatment are usually necessary. The first should be done before covering the structures, and the second after winter protection, when soil temperature rises and larvae become active again. After cutting the leeks, it's important to spray the soil where the larvae reside. A typical solution is 55% phoxim at a dilution of 500 to 600 times. Regular monitoring and timely intervention are key to reducing damage and ensuring healthy leek crops.
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