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:

1. Select an open area with no shade
2. Sweep the area clean
3. Bring the straw mat and spread on the clean area
4. Shake jute bags well and spread well on the mat
5. Pour cowpea on jute bag and spread evenly into a thin layer by using the finger to check
6. Cover the cowpea with the transparent sheet
7. Use stones/wood to weigh down the edges of the sheet
8. Leave cowpea in the sun all day but keep away from animals
9. 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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