Introduction
The following agricultural advisories have been sourced from the National Agromet Advisory Service Bulletin, issued by the Agricultural Meteorology Division, India Meteorological Department, Pune. These recommendations provide crop-specific guidance tailored to different zones in Kerala to support farmers in managing their crops effectively under varying weather and pest conditions.
Central Zone
Arecanut Management
To prevent mahali disease in arecanut during the rainy season, apply a prophylactic spray of 1% Bordeaux mixture or 2 grams of Copper oxychloride per liter of water, mixed with stickers, at 45-day intervals. Ensure fields are kept clean, and avoid applying pesticides during active rainfall. Completely remove and destroy severely affected arecanut trees. Maintain proper drainage systems to prevent waterlogging.
Southern Zone
Cowpea Pest Control
The current weather in the Southern Zone is conducive to pod borer infestations in cowpea. To manage this, spray Beauveria bassiana at a rate of 20 grams per liter of water. Alternatively, prepare a solution by mixing 20 grams of kanthari chili powder with 1 liter of cow’s urine, dilute it in 10 liters of water, and apply as a spray.
High Altitude Zone
Banana Crop Protection
With the likelihood of strong winds in the coming days, provide mechanical support to banana plants to prevent damage. Clear drainage channels to avoid water accumulation. Due to the risk of pseudo stem weevil infestation, implement strict phyto-sanitary measures to protect the crop.
Problem Area Zone
Paddy Field Recovery
In flood-affected paddy fields, apply lime after draining the water. For fields with plants less than 45 days old after transplanting, apply fertilizer one week after drainage to support recovery and growth.
Northern Zone
Coconut, Arecanut, and Rice Field Management
Prevent water stagnation in the planting pits of coconut and arecanut by constructing bunds to divert runoff water. Clear all drainage channels to ensure free water flow in rice fields and banana gardens, reducing the risk of waterlogging.