Field Infestation of Three Maize (ZEA MAYS L.) Genotypes By Lepidopterous Stem Borers In Makurdi, Nigeria.

Two field experiments were conducted in July and August 2004 to determine the effect of date of planting and rate of application of carbofuran (Furadan 3G) on damage by stem borers to flint, sweet and pop maize (Zea mays L) genotypes. Each experiment was laid out in a randomized complete block design (RCBD), with a spilt plot arrangement of treatment, replicated four times. Results from July 2004  cropping season showed significant interactions of maize genotypes and rate of application of carbofuran in percentage bored stem and number of borer cavity. However, borer population density and damage were effectively reduced by carbofuran application at the rate of 1.5 Kg a. i/ha. In August planting, the results showed that borer infestation was approximately five times higher in the control plots than treated plots. Carbofuran at the rate of 1.5 Kg ai/ha could be used to control stem borer population effectively in all the three genotypes, to obtain higher grain yield. KEY WORDS: Stem Borers, Damage, Zea mays, Planting Date, Carbofuran.