LAHORE, (APP – UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News – 15th Aug, 2026) The Punjab Agriculture Department has issued an advisory for controlling whitefly infestation in sugarcane.
According to the advisory, sugarcane whitefly is somewhat different from cotton whitefly, said Punjab Agriculture Department sources here on Saturday.
Farmers can identify the pest by the presence of a large number of yellow, elongated pupae on infested leaves, which remain attached to the leaves.
On carefully examining infested leaves, adult whiteflies can also be seen flying around or resting on the leaves.
The nymphs of the pest cause damage by sucking sap from the leaves.
In case of severe infestation, the leaves turn yellow and dry up, adversely affecting both the quality and yield of the crop.
Sources said, “For control, farmers are advised that if the infestation is limited to a small area, the affected leaves should be cut and buried in the soil.”
They should never burn the sugarcane trash, as this can destroy beneficial insects, source said and added that for chemical control, farmers should spray appropriate pesticides after consulting experts from the Agriculture (Extension) department or local agricultural specialists associated with Pest Warning services.
