Orange Walk farmers turn to natural pest control to protect cabbage crops

By Zoila Palma: The Orange Walk Agriculture Department conducted a one-day training on Integrated Pest Management (IPM) on September 1, 2026, focusing on biological methods to control Diamondback Moth (Plutella xylostella L.) in cabbage production. The training brought together 13 farmers from Indian Church and San Carlos villages.

The session was facilitated by Edwin Sosa of the International Regional Organization for Health in Agriculture (OIRSA) and Extension Officer Jesse Madrid. Farmers were introduced to beneficial insects, including Trichogramma pretiosum and Chrysoperla carnea, which can help reduce Diamondback Moth populations.

Sosa also shared successful experiences using these biological control agents in the Cayo District, giving farmers insight into their potential effectiveness under local conditions. The training emphasized regular field monitoring, protecting beneficial insects and integrating biological control with other IPM practices to reduce reliance on chemical pesticides.

As a follow-up, a field demonstration will be held in San Carlos Village, allowing farmers to gain hands-on experience in releasing and monitoring beneficial insects.

The Agriculture Department and OIRSA will provide additional technical support and assess their performance, as part of efforts to promote more sustainable and environmentally friendly cabbage production.

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