The Tomato leaf miner (Tuta absoluta) invasion spreads to Meru

Alerts on Tuta absoluta in Meru County

We have  received alerts on the possible outbreak of the pest in Meru County. The pest has already been identified in Isiolo county but outbreak has not yet been confirmed in Meru County. There are sightings of the pest in parts of Meru particularly Mutunyi in Buuri, Kiutine in Igembe Central and Giaki in Imenti North. A surveillance team has confirmed the invasion in Mutunyi.The pest is also suspected to be in Njuthine area of Mwanganthia ward in Imenti Central.

The pest is extremely destructive (causes 60-100% loss) and has devastated tomato crop in countries such as Spain, Ethiopia and Yemen. On the same note we  inform all farmers and extension officers to be on the alert and report any incidences of the pest for control purposes. KARI has been doing monitoring of the same. The pest is also a threat to other crops such as potato and black nightshade.  

Identification of Tuta absoluta

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Tuta absoluta detection and management in Meru County

Management of Tuta absoluta

Detect presence of pest early by use of pheromone traps

Scout for early insect pest damage on older leaves, stems and fruits

Cultural

Avoid rotation with crops from eggplants, Irish potatoes, tomatoes and capsicum family

Remove and destroy infested tomato plant materials and alternate host weeds e.g.Datura, managu

Chemical

Observe P.H.I and spray only using approved insecticides

The following chemicals can be used for controlling Tuta absoluta in tomato

1. Coragen 20SC (Chlorantraniliprole 200g/l). PHI 1 day. Spray on the first signs of the pest
2. Belt 450 SC (Flubendiamide 480g/l)
3. Tracer 480SC (Spinosad 480g/l). Also for thrips and leaf miner in tomatoes
4. Radiant 120SC (Spinetoram 120g/l). PHI 3 days

More information can be found at Tuta absoluta detection and management in Meru County