How to control Mango Mealybugs?

Mango Mealybugs (Drosicha mangiferae, Rastrococcus iceryoides)

Mealybugs are serious sucking pests of mango, especially during the flowering and fruiting stages. They suck sap from tender shoots, leaves, and fruits, weakening the plant and leading to fruit drop. Their honeydew secretion encourages the growth of sooty mold, which further reduces photosynthesis.

Symptoms of Mealybug Infestation:

  • White, cotton-like masses on leaves, twigs, and fruits.
  • Wilting and yellowing of leaves due to sap-sucking.
  • Premature fruit drop due to weakened fruit attachment.
  • Sticky honeydew on plant surfaces, promoting black sooty mold.

Management Strategies:

1. Cultural Control:

  • Plough orchard soil in November-December to expose eggs and reduce the next generation.
  • Wrap sticky bands (grease-coated polythene or tree bands) around trunks to block nymph movement.
  • Remove weeds and fallen plant debris to reduce hiding spots.

2. Biological Control:

  • Release predators like Cryptolaemus montrouzieri (mealybug destroyer beetle).
  • Encourage parasitoids like Anagyrus dactylopii to control populations naturally.

3. Chemical Control:

  • Early Stage (Before Flowering):

    • Spray Neem Oil (Azadirachtin 1500 ppm, 2-3 ml/L) as a preventive measure.

  • Severe Infestation:

    • Use Systemic Insecticides like
      • Imidacloprid 17.8% SL (0.3 ml/L)
      • Thiamethoxam 25% WG (0.5 g/L)
      • Buprofezin 25% SC (1 ml/L)

  • During Flowering:

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