Spring corn in Yongfu County is currently entering the critical stages of tasseling, silking, pollination, and grain filling, which are vital for yield formation and also a period of high incidence for pests and diseases.
The county's Agriculture and Rural Affairs Bureau advises farmers to scientifically implement four key management measures—pest control, disease prevention, waterlogging mitigation, and drought resistance—to ensure a high yield and successful harvest of the spring corn crop.
**Pest Control**
The focus is on controlling pests such as corn borers, aphids, and armyworms that affect the ear stage.
For corn borers, chlorantraniliprole or emamectin benzoate can be sprayed on the heart leaves, tassels, and ears.
For aphids, imidacloprid or thiamethoxam are recommended.
It is advised to use high-efficiency, low-toxicity pesticides and to avoid application during high-temperature periods to protect pollinating insects.
**Disease Prevention**
After tasseling, attention should be paid to preventing diseases like northern corn leaf blight, southern corn leaf blight, and rust.
At the initial stage of disease, pyraclostrobin or tebuconazole can be used for leaf blight, and difenoconazole for rust.
A second spray should be applied after 7-10 days, depending on weather conditions, to ensure normal leaf function.
**Waterlogging Mitigation**
Given the recent frequent occurrence of localized heavy rainfall, it is necessary to clear the field drainage ditches in advance to ensure water drains quickly after rain, preventing waterlogging damage that can lead to premature root aging and poor pollination.
Fields with severe water accumulation should have drainage ditches opened promptly to remove excess water.
**Drought Resistance**
In the event of persistent high temperatures and little rainfall, timely irrigation or sprinkling should be carried out during the tasseling, silking, and early grain-filling stages to maintain soil moisture and avoid "throat-cutting drought" that causes barren tips and grain deficiency.
If conditions allow, foliar application of monopotassium phosphate can be used to enhance drought resistance.
The county's Agriculture and Rural Affairs Bureau urges farmers to strengthen field management and promptly contact township agricultural service centers if they encounter difficulties, aiming to achieve a full harvest through scientific practices.