Sesame attacked by a variety of insects, and it is seldom economical to use insecticides for their control. Instead, cultural methods are generally em- ployed to offset the losses caused by insects. Where seedling losses are anticipated, higher seed rates are used; and where flower-destroying insects are common, branching varieties which produce more flowers are grown. Also, planting dates can be varied to avoid periods of heavy pest buildup, and crop residues can be destroyed to eradicate overwintering pest popula- tions.
Delaying thinning may prevent gaps in the crop stand caused by attacks of moles, crickets, and cutworms. The most harmful insect ‘pest of sesame is the til leaf roller (Antigastra catalaunalis). This can be controlled by spraying with a recommended insec- ticide, e.g. By-Throid 50 EC at 700-1200 ml/ha, or Thiodan 35 EC at 1200-1800 ml/ha. In addition, jassids and whiteflies may also need to be controlled since they carry the virus which .causes phyllody and leaf-curl diseases. Root rot caused by Rhizoctonia phaseoli and Macrophomina spp. is an important disease of sesame. This can be prevented by selecting light soil and levelling the seedbeds perfectly to avoid poor drainage.
Key reference : Crop Production by Shafi Nazir
