Pineapple farming has become a key source of income for many Ugandan farmers, but one of the persistent challenges growers face is the infestation of mealy bugs.
These small, ash-pink oval insects are common in all pineapple-growing regions and can cause serious damage if not controlled early.
Hassan Serwadda, a commercial farmer based in Nsiima Salaam, Nazigo trading centre in Kayunga district, has cultivated pineapples and bananas for years.
He explains that mealy bugs usually attack the stems and leaves, but they don’t stop there.
“They target almost every part of the plant, the roots, stems, leaves, flowers, and even the fruit,” he says.
The impact of mealy bugs goes beyond just physical damage.
Jane Nayigaga, another commercial pineapple farmer, warns that these pests can also spread pineapple wilt disease.
“Mealy bugs feed on the sap of the plant and in the process, they may transmit the wilt virus,” she says.
The signs of pineapple wilt include red and yellowing leaves, curled leaf edges, stunted growth, and small underdeveloped fruits.
Preventing this pest requires both vigilance and the right treatment methods.
Geoffrey Natigo, an expert in pest control, advises farmers to monitor their fields regularly for any signs of infestation.
“Early detection is crucial,” he says. “Once you see the bugs or wilt symptoms, it’s time to act fast.”
Natigo recommends spraying the affected pineapple plants with natural insecticides such as nimbecidine, neem extractive oil, or pure neem oil. These organic solutions are effective in repelling and killing the bugs without harming the plant or soil.
He also encourages farmers to maintain field hygiene by removing heavily infested plants and weeds that may harbor pests.
In addition to chemical and organic sprays, crop rotation and intercropping with pest-repellent plants can also help reduce the chances of re-infestation.
Good spacing between plants and adequate aeration in the field further discourage the buildup of pest populations.
Ultimately, the key to protecting pineapples from mealy bugs lies in continuous monitoring, timely intervention, and a combination of preventive strategies.
