Beauveria bassiana for Arecanut – Control Root Grubs, Leafhoppers & Caterpillars

Arecanut is a major cash crop in Kannur. But pests like root grubs, leafhoppers, and caterpillars cause significant economic losses.

Root grubs (the larval stage of various beetle species) live underground and feed on the tender roots of arecanut palms. Affected palms show yellowing, stunted growth, and reduced nut yield. In severe cases, the palm can decline and die. Root grubs are difficult to control with chemicals because they live deep in the soil.

Leafhoppers are tiny, wedge‑shaped insects that suck sap from the underside of leaves, causing yellowing (hopper burn) and reduced photosynthesis. They also act as vectors for diseases.

Caterpillars (like the tobacco caterpillar, Spodoptera litura) defoliate the palms, eating large portions of fronds and reducing the palm's ability to produce energy.

Beauveria bassiana is the natural, proven solution. Kerala Agricultural University produces Beauveria bassiana at its biocontrol laboratory and recommends it for controlling berry borer in coffee, as well as sucking pests and lepidopteran pests of crops. Studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of Beauveria bassiana against arecanut pests. Furrow application of Beauveria bassiana powder formulation at the rate of 5 kg (with 1×10¹² CFU/g) per acre effectively controls root grubs. Beauveria has also been tested against leafhoppers and caterpillars with positive results.

How Beauveria bassiana works against arecanut pests:

• For root grubs: The fungal spores are mixed with organic manure and applied to the soil. When grubs come in contact with the spores, the fungus germinates, penetrates their cuticle, and kills them. The fungus then persists in the soil, providing ongoing suppression.

• For leafhoppers and caterpillars: When the fungus is sprayed on the fronds, spores land on the pests. The fungus germinates, grows through the cuticle, and kills the pests from within.

How to apply Beauveria bassiana on arecanut (Bactostore method):

Foliar spray (for leafhoppers, caterpillars, and other foliar pests):

• For liquid formulation: Mix 2‑5 ml of Bactostore's Beauveria bassiana liquid in 1 litre of water. For 1 acre, use 1‑2 litres of liquid diluted in 200‑400 litres of water.

• For powder formulation: Mix 5‑10g of Bactostore's Beauveria powder in 1 litre of water. For 1 acre, use 1‑2 kg of powder diluted in 200‑400 litres of water.

• For better results, add 2 kg jaggery (gur) – the sugar feeds the fungus, boosting spore germination.

• Spray thoroughly on both sides of fronds, paying special attention to the underside of leaves where leafhoppers hide.

• Spray in early morning or late evening when humidity is high. Cloudy days are ideal.

• Repeat every 15‑20 days during active infestation.

Soil application for root grubs:

• Take 5‑10 kg of Bactostore's Beauveria powder per acre

• Mix with 500‑1000 kg of well‑decomposed FYM or cow dung

• Broadcast the mixture evenly in the arecanut garden, in the basins around each palm

• Alternatively, apply in furrows and incorporate into the top 10‑15 cm of soil

• Apply pre‑monsoon (April‑May) and again post‑monsoon (September‑October)

• For severe infestations, increase to 10‑15 kg per acre

For individual palm treatment (small scale):

• Take 50‑100g of Bactostore's Beauveria powder per palm

• Mix with 5‑10 kg of well‑decomposed FYM

• Apply in the basin and cover with soil

Important tips for Kannur arecanut farmers:

• Beauveria works best in high humidity and moist soil conditions

• Do not mix with chemical fungicides – they will kill the beneficial fungus

• For root grubs, maintain good field sanitation – remove decaying organic matter where beetles breed

• Use light traps to capture adult beetles and reduce egg‑laying

• Combine Beauveria with good drainage – waterlogging favours other diseases

Buy from Bactostore. We deliver fresh Beauveria bassiana – liquid or powder – to all Kannur arecanut gardens.

📞 Call 9146150117 | 🌐 www.peaklab.co.in