Buy Metarhizium Anisopliae for Arecanut – Control White Grubs and Root Grubs

Arecanut is a major cash crop in Kozhikode's midland areas. But white grubs – the larvae of scarab beetles – are a constant threat. These C‑shaped, pale white grubs live underground and feed on the tender roots of arecanut palms. The first sign is yellowing of the lower fronds (friar's leaf), then the entire palm turns yellow and slowly declines. In heavily infested gardens, 10‑20% or more of palms can be lost every year. The adult beetles emerge during the monsoon and lay eggs in soil rich in organic matter. Chemical control is difficult – soil drenching with insecticides is expensive, harmful to soil health, and often fails because the grubs are deep in the soil.

Metarhizium anisopliae is the organic solution.

What the research says: Research studies have demonstrated that Metarhizium anisopliae is effective against arecanut white grubs. Field evaluations have shown that M. anisopliae causes up to 53.20% reduction in white grub populations in arecanut plantations. The fungus infects the grubs, kills them, and then persists in the soil, providing protection for multiple seasons.

How Metarhizium works against arecanut white grubs: The fungal spores are mixed with organic manure and applied to the soil. When a white grub comes into contact with the spores, the spores germinate and attach to the grub's cuticle. They produce enzymes (chitinases, proteases) that break through the cuticle. The fungus then grows inside the grub's body, consuming its tissues and producing destruxin toxins. The grub dies within 3‑7 days. After death, the fungus produces green spores on the grub's cadaver, which then spread to other grubs in the soil.

How to apply Metarhizium on arecanut:

Individual palm treatment (for small gardens or spot treatment):

• Take 200‑250g of Bactostore's Metarhizium powder per adult palm

• Mix with 20‑25 kg of well‑decomposed FYM

• Apply in the basin around the palm (1‑1.5 metre radius) and cover with soil

• Apply twice a year – pre‑monsoon (April‑May) and post‑monsoon (September‑October)

Broadcast method (for whole garden):

• Take 2‑4 kg of Bactostore's Metarhizium powder per acre

• Mix with 200‑400 kg of well‑decomposed FYM or cow dung

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

• Incorporate lightly into the soil (top 5‑10 cm)

• Apply twice a year

For young palms (below 5 years):

• Use half the dose – 100‑125g powder per palm

Important tips: Avoid applying chemical fungicides or pesticides in the root zone for at least 30 days after Metarhizium application, as they will kill the beneficial fungus.

Buy Metarhizium for your arecanut garden today.
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