Caggage production and significance of cabbage pests in East New Britain

Abstract

A two year study was conducted at the Entomology Section of LAES to determine the extent of cabbage cropped areas, to evaluate the present pest status and the target group of pests for a potential integrated pest management concept. Round cabbage is mainly cropped in permanent large scale production on farms where it is threatened by insecticide resistant Diamondback Moth (Plutella xylostella). In small scale production of round cabbage without insecticidal sprays and cropping of pat choi, Crocidolomia pavonana and Spodoptera litura were found to be most detrimental. The total area covered by brassicas on the Gazelle Peninsula is estimated at 250 ha/year.