🌿 Introduction
Pest problems are part of every farmer’s journey — but when it comes to dragon fruit, two silent invaders can do serious damage if left unchecked: ants and termites.
At Kurela Agro Farms, we’ve seen firsthand how these tiny pests can affect plant health, fruit quality, and even overall yield. But we’ve also learned that with the right approach and timing, pest control doesn’t need to be costly or chemical-heavy.
This blog gives you a field-tested, practical pest control plan — one that’s easy to implement, affordable, and safe for long-term dragon fruit success.
🧪 Why Are Ants and Termites a Problem?
“The danger isn’t what you see. It’s what happens underground and overnight.”
Early signs are often missed — and by the time visible damage occurs, it may be too late to save the plant.
🐜 Ants
They farm mealybugs and aphids on tender shoots
They protect these insects from predators
They weaken new growth and attract fungal infections
🐛 Termites
Attack the base of the stem, especially in dry or decaying wood
Cause the pole or plant to collapse silently
Spread rapidly under mulch or in old manure piles
✅ Proven Pest Treatment Protocols
At Kurela Agro Farms, we follow this two-layered approach:
1. Ant Control Strategy
| Method | Product | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Soil Drench | Chlorpyriphos 20% EC @ 2ml/ltr water | Once every 30–45 days |
| Sticky Bands | Jaggery + grease paste around pole base | Replace every 15 days |
| Natural Repellent | Neem oil + Pongamia oil (1ml/ltr each) | Weekly foliar spray |
Pro Tip: Ants disappear fast when mealybugs are removed. Control both together.
2. Termite Control Strategy
| Method | Product | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Soil Drench | Plethora (Adama) @ 2ml/ltr near plant base | Monthly or as needed |
| Spot Treatment | Kerosene or salt water in termite holes | Immediate action |
| Organic Option | Wood ash + turmeric powder + cow urine mix | Weekly base drench during monsoon |
“Don’t just treat the plant. Treat the soil, the pole, and the surroundings.”
🌱 Preventive Measures That Actually Work
- Remove dead wood or damaged branches quickly
- Avoid using termite-infested bamboo or poles
- Mulch with care — always leave 3–4 inches gap from the stem
- Avoid water stagnation near the plant base
- Boost plant immunity with regular organic inputs like jeevamrutham or seaweed
🧠 Field Insight from Kurela Agro Farms
“We treat our poles before installation with Chlorpyriphos + Neem oil. That one step reduced our termite risk by 80%.”
Our advice to new farmers:
- Don’t delay action — early control is always cheaper
- Rotate chemical and natural treatments to avoid resistance
- Involve your family or farm workers in weekly pest walks
💡 Quote Worth Remembering
“A successful farmer is not one who never faces problems, but one who spots problems early and solves them smartly.”
📢 Final Words
Dragon fruit farming is profitable — but pests like ants and termites can silently eat away your hard work.
The solution lies not in panic, but in a simple, consistent treatment plan like the one shared above.
At Kurela Agro Farms, we’re committed to helping every farmer grow stronger — not just with plants, but with knowledge.
🌿 Follow us for more insights, and if this helped you — do share it in your farmer groups and communities.
Contact US
We don’t just sell plants — we help build successful farms.
From layout to last harvest, we guide you with systems that are already working in the field.
📞 +91 8866667502 / 8866667503
www.kurelaagrofarms.com | kurelaagrofarms@gmail.com
