By Maile Matsimela
More than 70 cases of African armyworm (Spodoptera exempta) have so far been reported in the Free State since the Department of Agriculture in the province confirmed an outbreak on 26 March.
Cases have been reported in the Xhariep district, affecting areas such Petrusburg, Luckhoff, Jacobsdal, Oppermansgronde, Koffiefontein and Fauriesmith.
In Lejweleputswa district, affected areas are Boshoff, Dealesvillve, Hertzogville, Hoopstad, and Bothaville, while in the Mangaung Metro only the Soutpan is affected.
The department says new reports of armyworms outbreaks have been received from Bultfontein, Hoopstad and Brandfort in the Lejweleputswa district.
The provincial department continues to assist farmers in the affected areas with the distribution of chemicals and sprayers.
Farmers are requested to continue to be vigilant and immediately report detection of armyworms to their local extension officers.
Alternatively, farmers can report to the following district officers:
Xhariep district, Shadrack Cezula on 081 038 6504
Lejweleputswa district, Tahbiso Letsoara on 066 220 1167
Mangaung metro, George Madiba on 064 063 6194
Also read:
• Armyworms outbreak in the Free State
• Latest news and advice on armyworm outbreak in the Free State
