How Do Termites Affect Plants?

Termites are insects that are similar to ants. They are active deep below the soil’s surface and tunnel in search of food. They are able to destroy living plant tissue and decayed plant tissue.

Termites are a significant agricultural pest. They are destructive to maize, groundnuts, cassava, sugarcane, and other crops. They can also damage metal foils, plastics, bridges, and buildings. They often infest potted plants.

Several types of termites are active in Africa. These include Ancistrotermes, Microtermes, and Pseudoacanthotermes. The Ancistrotermes destroy mature maize plants. They are also damaging to seedlings.

They can cause significant economic damage to sugarcane and maize. In eastern Africa, crop yield losses can reach 100%.

To control termites, plow the field deep. This reduces the amount of decaying matter and reduces termite numbers. In addition, the use of a chemical pesticide can limit termite growth.

Another effective method of controlling termites is to introduce natural enemies into the system. Various fungi and nematodes can be used as termite control. These fungi can be applied to stem bases, or seed dressings can be used to apply them to the soil.

The use of orange oil is another natural termite control technique. It contains the insecticide D-limonene, which kills termites. Unlike other pesticides, orange oil can be used to kill termites without killing the plant. This oil can be pumped into the infested wood.

Other natural termite control techniques involve using neem seeds as a repellent. They can be pounded into the soil or used as a bait.