Both the spread and severity of eldana infestation recorded during the 2024/2025 season could be attributable to the high quantity of carryover cane over the past three seasons. A shorter milling season resulting in excessive ageing of the crop in-field, coupled with a milder winter and increased incidence of flowering, are all factors that are likely to encourage persistence of eldana in the field. Carryover issues experienced over the last three seasons could also have exacerbated the percent stalk length red observed this season. Previous studies conducted at SASRI have shown that damage assessed in October can increase between 2-4 times if that field is carried over into April/May the following year.  

Managing carryover fields for eldana is a priority, considering the extent of carryover cane that is currently prevalent across much of the industry. The following insecticide guidelines can be applied to minimise level of the pest in this crop and in the subsequent ratoon:

• Coragen®– will provide approximately 60 days of residual activity, or,
• Benevia® – will also provide 60 days of residual activity.

One application of each of these products will protect the crop for two months. Both these products offer systemic and contact activity, increasing the likelihood of controlling the pest and protecting the crop from damage.