SOLARISATION: Reducing damage from cowpea beetles during storage

by Mr. Lawrence Kofi Krampa (Ghana)

The solar energy serves many purposes during and after production. But in post – production, it could be used to reduce damage from cowpea beetles during storage.

In a situation whereby preference is now given to the consumption of organic foods, it is essential that avoidance of chemicals in the control of storage pests should be encouraged.

Cowpea beetles could be controlled by:

The use of chemicals e.g. Actellic super
The use of plant materials
The use of airtight containers
The use of cooking oil

SOLARISATION

This is a very simple method, which is very effective.

Materials needed:

Straw mat
Jute bags
Cowpea
Transparent sheet
Stones/Wood
Broom

Method:

Select an open area with no shade
Sweep the area clean
Bring the straw mat and spread on the clean area
Shake jute bags well and spread well on the mat
Pour cowpea on jute bag and spread evenly into a thin layer by using the finger to check
Cover the cowpea with the transparent sheet
Use stones/wood to weigh down the edges of the sheet
Leave cowpea in the sun all day but keep away from animals
Repeat once a month, during storage

N. B.: Solarisation uses the heat of the sun to kill the cowpea beettle on and inside cowpea

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