Conditions for application of phostoxin

Remember that these treatments are curative, and have no persistence overtime, therefore, a combination of the techniques of contact insecticide and fumigation is recommended.

a) Location: Any space that can be enclosed and made air-tight can be used for fumigation of grains.

b) Temperature: The duration of fumigation treatment is highly dependent on ambient temperature condition. Higher is the temperature, more effective is the treatment. Some important guidelines are as follows:

IPM strategies against pulse beetle

a) Relative Humidity: Humidity of the ambient air influences the rate of release of phosphine gas. Higher the RH, higher is the rate of release of gas. There is no release of gas below 30% RH. Under this condition, water containers should be placed below the fumigation sheet.

b) Right concentration: It is essential to maintain the required concentration of fumigant in the sealed space and for sufficient time in order to have effective control of all stages of the pest. The fumigation sheet, therefore, should be air-tight and properly sealed with the floor with the help of paper tape. The floor should preferably be of concrete.

c) Proper hygiene: Fumigants are not persistent and therefore, the possibility of re-infestation should be avoided. This can be done with carrying out surface treatment of the storage area with Malathion. This has a volatile action and is effective against flying insects.