Metarhizium anisopliae for Arecanut – Control Root Grubs, White Grubs & Termites

Arecanut is a major cash crop in Kannur, but root grubs (white grubs) are a constant threat. These C‑shaped, pale white larvae feed on the fine roots of arecanut palms. The first sign is yellowing of the lower fronds, then the entire palm turns yellow and slowly dies. 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 KAU‑ and CPCRI‑recommended organic solution. Research has demonstrated that Metarhizium anisopliae is highly effective against arecanut white grubs. A dose of 5‑10 kg of Metarhizium powder per acre, mixed with well‑decomposed FYM and broadcast in the garden, provides effective control. The fungus infects the grubs, kills them, and then persists in the soil, providing protection for multiple seasons.

How Metarhizium works against arecanut root 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 toxins (destruxins). 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 anisopliae on arecanut (Bactostore method):

Broadcast method (for whole garden):

• Take 5‑10 kg of Bactostore's Metarhizium 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

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

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

• For severe infestation, apply three times (add a summer application in February‑March)

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 (1‑1.5 metre radius) around the palm and cover with soil

• Apply twice a year

For termites in arecanut (soil drench):

• Mix 1‑2 litres of Metarhizium liquid in 200 litres of water

• Drench the root zone of affected palms (5‑10 litres per palm)

• Repeat after 15‑20 days

Important tips for Kannur arecanut farmers:

• Apply just before the monsoon so that moisture helps the fungus establish

• Maintain good field sanitation – remove decaying organic matter where beetles breed

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

• Combine Metarhizium with the application of neem cake (50‑100 kg per acre) for enhanced effect

• Do not mix with chemical fungicides

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

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