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  • Don’t Let Crop Diseases Ruin Your Harvest: 5 Prevention Tips Every Farmer Should Know

    Don’t Let Crop Diseases Ruin Your Harvest: 5 Prevention Tips Every Farmer Should Know

    Healthy harvest starts with healthy crops. Throughout the growing season, crops face several threats, and plant diseases are among the challenges that can affect their growth, quality and productivity.

    From seed-borne infections to fungal diseases that develop during the growing season, taking preventive measures and responding early can make a significant difference.

    So, how can you protect your crops from diseases and give them a better chance of producing a healthy harvest?

    Here are five practical tips every farmer should know.

    1. Start with Proper Seed Treatment

    Your crop protection journey should begin before planting.

    Seeds can carry disease-causing organisms that may affect germination, seedling development and early crop establishment. This makes appropriate seed treatment an important part of planting preparation.

    Consider using a suitable seed treatment product to protect your seeds against targeted seed-borne diseases and early-season threats. For farmers preparing for planting, Saro’s Seedshield, a seed treatment formulation containing Tebuconazole, Imidacloprid and Metalaxyl-M, is one option to explore for crops covered by its product recommendations.

    Remember to follow the product label for the recommended crops, treatment method and application rate.

    2. Practise Crop Rotation

    Planting the same crop repeatedly on the same piece of land can encourage the buildup of certain disease-causing organisms in the soil.

    Crop rotation helps break the disease cycle by changing the crops grown on a particular piece of land.

    For example, rotating cereals with suitable legumes can help manage certain crop-specific diseases while also contributing to improved soil fertility.

    Plan your crop rotation based on the crops you grow and the common diseases in your area.

    3. Maintain Good Farm Hygiene

    Poor farm hygiene can create favourable conditions for disease-causing organisms to survive and spread.

    To reduce the risk of infection:

    • Remove and properly dispose of heavily infected plant materials.
    • Control weeds that may harbour disease-causing organisms.
    • Clean farm tools and equipment regularly.
    • Avoid moving contaminated soil and plant debris between fields.
    • Maintain proper spacing to encourage good airflow.

    A clean and well-maintained farm makes disease monitoring and management easier.

    4. Scout Your Farm Regularly and Identify Diseases Early

    Don’t wait until your crops show severe symptoms before inspecting your farm.

    Regular scouting helps you identify unusual changes and respond before a problem becomes widespread.

    Look out for:

    • Yellowing or discoloured leaves.
    • Brown spots and unusual patches.
    • Wilting or drying leaves.
    • Rotten stems and roots.
    • Unusual growth patterns.

    If you notice these symptoms, investigate the cause before choosing a treatment. Remember, similar symptoms can result from nutrient deficiencies, water stress, insect damage or diseases.

    Where fungal diseases are identified, an appropriate fungicide can help manage the infection. Blue Snow, a Saro fungicide containing Azoxystrobin and Difenoconazole, is worth considering for its recommended target diseases and crops, including certain leaf spots, blights and rusts.

    Always confirm that the product is suitable for the disease and crop you’re treating before application.

    5. Use the Right Crop Protection Products at the Right Time

    When dealing with crop diseases, choosing the right product is just as important as identifying the problem.

    Different diseases require different control measures. A fungicide that works against one fungal disease may not be suitable for another, while bacterial and viral diseases require different management approaches.

    Before applying any crop protection product:

    • Identify the disease affecting your crop.
    • Choose a product recommended for the particular crop and disease.
    • Follow the recommended application rate and timing.
    • Wear the appropriate protective equipment.
    • Observe all safety instructions and pre-harvest intervals on the product label.

    Where you’re uncertain about the problem or the right treatment, consult an agronomist before spraying.

    Protect Your Harvest with the Right Knowledge and Solutions

    Protecting your crops from diseases requires more than waiting for symptoms to appear. It starts with proper seed treatment, good farm hygiene, crop rotation, regular scouting and timely intervention.

    With the right agronomic practices and appropriate crop protection solutions, you can reduce disease risks, support healthier crop development and improve your chances of a successful harvest.

    At Saro Agrosciences, we are committed to providing farmers with reliable crop protection solutions and the knowledge they need to make better farming decisions. You can download our FarmPropa app and follow our social media platforms for more updates.

  • The Late-Season Mistakes That Cost Cowpea Farmers Money

    The Late-Season Mistakes That Cost Cowpea Farmers Money

    Getting a cowpea crop to flowering and pod formation is a significant milestone, but the work doesn’t stop there. The final stages of production are just as important, and mistakes made during this period can reduce yields, affect grain quality and eat into farmers’ profits.

    From insect attacks on developing pods to diseases, poor harvest timing and improper storage, several challenges can undermine an otherwise successful farming season.

    Here are five late-season mistakes cowpea farmers should avoid.

    1. Ignoring Insect Attacks During Pod Formation

    One of the biggest mistakes farmers make is reducing field inspections once the crop begins flowering and producing pods.

    However, this is when some of the most damaging cowpea insect pests become particularly important.

    Watch out for:

    Maruca pod borer (Maruca vitrata): Its caterpillars feed on flower buds, flowers and developing pods. Look out for webbed flowers, feeding holes and damaged pods.

    Flower thrips (Megalurothrips sjostedti): These tiny insects feed inside flower buds and flowers, causing browning, flower drop and poor pod formation.

    Pod-sucking bugs (Clavigralla tomentosicollis, Anoplocnemis curvipes and Riptortus species): These insects pierce and suck sap from developing pods and seeds, resulting in shrivelled, poorly developed or damaged grains.

    Cowpea aphids (Aphis craccivora): These small insects cluster around young shoots and stems, sucking plant sap and weakening the crop.

    What farmers should do:

    *Inspect flowers and developing pods regularly.

    *Look out for feeding holes, webbing, discolouration and shrivelled pods.

    *Identify the insect before choosing a control measure.

    *During pod formation, apply  Sting or Vanguish to help protect your crop against insect pests. Follow the product label for the recommended application rate and timing.

    *Don’t assume your crop is safe simply because it has started producing pods.

    2. Overlooking Diseases and Parasitic Weeds

    Not every problem affecting your cowpea field is caused by insects. Diseases and parasitic weeds can also reduce crop performance, especially when farmers fail to recognise their symptoms early.

    Some important problems to watch out for include:

    Fungal diseases

    Fusarium wilt: Caused by Fusarium fungi. Infected plants may become stunted, develop yellowing leaves, wilt and eventually die.

    Cercospora leaf spot: Characterised by leaf spots that can cause premature leaf deterioration and reduce the plant’s ability to produce healthy grains.

    Viral diseases

    Cowpea mosaic virus: Infected plants may develop mottled leaves, distorted young growth and poor plant development. Aphids can transmit some cowpea viruses.

    Bacterial diseases

    Bacterial blight: Can cause water-soaked or brown lesions on leaves, stems and pods, depending on the pathogen and infection conditions.

    Parasitic weeds

    Striga (witchweed): This parasitic weed attaches to cowpea roots, depriving the crop of water and nutrients. Severe infestation can stunt growth and significantly reduce pod production.

    What farmers should do:

    *Inspect plants for unusual leaf spots, yellowing, wilting and stunted growth.

    *Remove and manage affected plant materials appropriately.

    *Control weeds before they become established.

    *Practise crop rotation and use recommended resistant varieties where available.

    *Seek expert advice when symptoms are unclear.

    Correct identification is important because insects, fungal diseases, bacterial diseases, viruses and parasitic weeds require different management approaches.

    3. Spraying Without Considering Harvest Time

    As harvest approaches, unnecessary or poorly timed pesticide applications can create additional problems.

    Every crop protection product has a pre-harvest interval (PHI), which is the minimum period required between the last application and harvesting.

    Ignoring this interval can result in unacceptable pesticide residues on harvested grains.

    What farmers should do:

    *Read the product label before application.

    *Observe the recommended pre-harvest interval.

    *Use only products registered for cowpea and the target pest or disease.

    *Avoid unnecessary spraying close to harvest.

    Protecting your crop should never come at the expense of food safety.

    4. Harvesting Too Early or Too Late

    Timing matters when harvesting cowpea.

    Harvesting too early can result in immature grains, while delaying harvest for too long can expose mature pods to shattering, weather damage and field pests.

    What farmers should do:

    *Monitor pod maturity regularly.

    *Harvest when the pods have reached the appropriate maturity stage.

    *Where maturity is uneven, consider harvesting in batches.

    *Handle harvested pods carefully to minimise grain losses.

    Timely harvesting helps preserve both yield and grain quality.

    5. Poor Drying and Storage Practices

    Your work doesn’t end when the cowpea leaves the field. Poor post-harvest handling can undo the effort invested throughout the season.

    One major storage insect pest is the cowpea weevil (Callosobruchus maculatus).

    Unlike field pests that attack growing plants, cowpea weevils infest stored grains. They lay eggs on the grains, and their developing larvae feed inside the seeds, reducing grain quality and market value.

    Moisture during storage can also encourage mould development and grain deterioration.

    What farmers should do:

    *Dry grains properly before storage.

    *Remove damaged grains and foreign materials.

    *Use clean, dry and appropriate storage containers.

    *Protect stored grains against moisture and storage insects.

    *Inspect stored cowpea regularly for signs of infestation.

    Good storage practices help preserve the quality and value of your harvest.

    Finish the Season Strong with the Right Support

    A successful cowpea season requires attention at every stage, from planting and flowering to pod formation, harvesting and storage.

    Don’t allow avoidable mistakes to take away from your hard work.

    And remember, you don’t have to figure everything out on your own!

    With the FarmPropa App, you can access practical agricultural resources and get support when challenges arise.

    Use the Report an Issue feature on FarmPropa. Simply take a picture of the affected crop, provide details about what you’re observing and submit it for an agronomist to review and respond.

    Follow us across  social media for more helpful tips.

  • What’s Damaging Your Crops: Insect Damage or Plant Disease?

    What’s Damaging Your Crops: Insect Damage or Plant Disease?

    You notice holes in your maize leaves. Your tomato leaves have brown spots, or your cassava leaves are turning yellow. What is causing the damage?

    Before you spray, find out what you are dealing with. Insects that feed on crops and diseases caused by fungi, bacteria or viruses require different control methods. Using the wrong product may waste money without solving the problem.

    Here is how to recognise the warning signs.

    1. Check for Insect Damage

    Some insects chew leaves, bore into stems or feed on plant sap. Their feeding often leaves visible signs on the crop.

    Look out for:

    Holes in leaves: Caterpillars and grasshoppers chew leaves, sometimes leaving large holes or ragged edges.

    Damaged stems: Stem-boring caterpillars can tunnel into stems, weakening plants and sometimes causing the growing point to dry up.

    Curled leaves: Aphids and whiteflies feed on plant sap and may cause leaves to curl or become distorted.

    Damaged fruits and pods: Some insects bore into tomatoes, maize cobs or developing pods, damaging the produce.

    What to do: Inspect the affected plants, including the undersides of leaves, young shoots, stems and fruits. Look for live insects, eggs, droppings or feeding marks. These clues can help you identify the insect responsible.

    2. Check for Signs of Plant Disease

    Plant diseases can also damage leaves, stems, roots and fruits. They may be caused by fungi, bacteria or viruses, and their symptoms can differ from one crop to another.

    Look out for:

    Leaf spots: Brown, black or yellow patches that may enlarge or spread across the leaf.

    Powdery or fuzzy growth: Some fungal diseases produce visible growth on leaves, stems or fruits.

    Wilting and rotting: Plants may wilt, develop rotten roots or stems, or die despite adequate watering.

    Unusual patterns on leaves: Some viral diseases cause mottled colours, yellow patterns, curling or distorted growth.

    What to do: Examine the affected leaves and other plant parts. Check whether the spots are spreading, whether several plants show similar symptoms and whether there are signs of rotting or unusual growth. If you cannot identify the disease confidently, seek advice from an agricultural extension officer or agronomist.

    3. Do Not Confuse One Problem with Another

    Some symptoms look alike. For example, yellow leaves may result from insect feeding, plant disease, poor soil nutrition or water stress.

    Holes in leaves may suggest insect feeding, but spots and wilting alone do not confirm a disease.

    That is why you should not choose a treatment based on one symptom. Examine the crop carefully and identify the likely cause before taking action.

    4. Choose the Right Control Method

    Once you have identified the problem, choose a control method that addresses it.

    For insect damage: If a harmful insect is responsible for the damage and treatment is necessary, use an insecticide registered for the specific crop and target pest. Saro offers a range of insecticide solutions for different pest challenges. These include Capsitox for mirid control in cocoa and vegetables, Hallakat for armyworm control in maize, Termex or Solitex for termite control, and Sting for the control of piercing and sucking insects in legumes, among others. Always confirm that the product is registered for the intended crop and pest, and follow label instructions for proper application.

    For fungal diseases: Managing fungal diseases may require removing infected plant material, improving field conditions and applying a registered fungicide where recommended. Saro offers Blue Snow, Clot and Sarozeb for the management of fungal diseases in crops, depending on the crop and disease involved. For cocoa farmers dealing with black pod disease, Mackecknie Gold and Mackecknie Extra are effective Saro solutions to consider. Always confirm the product’s recommended use for the specific crop and disease, and follow label instructions.

    For bacterial or viral diseases: Fungicides will not cure these infections. Control may involve removing infected plants, managing insect carriers where relevant, using healthy planting materials and following recommended farm hygiene practices.

    Always read the product label and follow the recommended application rate, crop instructions and safety precautions. If you are uncertain about the cause, get professional guidance before spraying.

    5. Inspect Your Farm Before Problems Spread

    Make crop inspection part of your weekly farm routine. Check your leaves, stems, roots, flowers and fruits regularly. Look for changes and investigate them early.

    Record what you observe and the steps you take. Early identification can help you avoid unnecessary spraying, reduce wasted expenses and protect your crop.

    Before You Spray, Identify the Problem

    Holes in leaves, brown spots and wilting are warning signs, but they do not all point to the same cause.

    Check for insect feeding. Look for signs of disease. Identify the problem before choosing a treatment.

    Need help with a crop problem? Use the FarmPropa app’s Report an Issue feature to upload a photo and details of the affected crop for review by an agronomist.

    For guidance on suitable crop protection products, speak with a trusted SARO agro-dealer.

  • Scout, Identify, Spray: Managing Insect Pests in Your Legume Farm

    Scout, Identify, Spray: Managing Insect Pests in Your Legume Farm

    Legumes such as cowpea, soybean and groundnut are important crops for Nigerian farmers. They provide food, support household income and contribute to soil fertility. However, insect pests can damage leaves, flowers, pods and seeds, reducing crop performance and yield if not properly managed.

    When insects attack a crop, the first reaction may be to reach for an insecticide. But spraying without first identifying the insect pest can waste money, increase production costs and harm beneficial insects that help keep pest populations under control.

    A better approach is Integrated Pest Management (IPM). It combines regular field scouting, correct insect identification, preventive practices and responsible insecticide use to manage insect pests effectively.

    The principle is simple: Scout your field. Identify the insect pest. Decide on the right control method. Spray only when necessary.

    1. Scout: Check Your Field for Insect Pests

    Effective insect pest management begins with regular field inspection. Do not wait until leaves are badly damaged or pods are destroyed before checking your crops.

    Walk through your field regularly, inspecting different sections rather than checking only the edges. Pay attention to the leaves, stems, flowers and pods for visible insects and signs of insect feeding.

    Look out for:

    • Holes and damaged leaves: These may indicate the presence of leaf-feeding insects.
    • Curling or distorted leaves: Some sap-sucking insects can cause these symptoms.
    • Damaged or dropping flowers: Flower-feeding insects may affect flower retention and reduce pod formation.
    • Holes in pods or damaged seeds: These may indicate the presence of pod-feeding insects.
    • Visible insects or eggs: Check the undersides of leaves, flowers and other sheltered areas where insect pests may hide.
    • Discoloured or weakened plants: Some insect pests damage plants by sucking sap, while others cause visible feeding injuries.

    Remember that not every damaged leaf or unhealthy plant indicates an insect pest problem. Similar symptoms can result from diseases, nutrient deficiencies, water stress and other crop conditions. Confirm the likely cause before deciding whether an insecticide is needed.

    Record the insects you observe, the parts of the crop affected, the extent of the damage and whether the infestation is increasing. These observations will help you determine the appropriate response.

    2. Identify: Know the Insect Pest Before Choosing a Treatment

    Different insect pests attack legumes at different growth stages and cause different types of damage. Some feed on leaves, others attack flowers and pods, while some suck sap from the plant.

    Using an insecticide without correctly identifying the target pest can lead to poor control, unnecessary expenses and continued crop damage.

    Before deciding on a treatment, consider the following:

    • Identify the insect pest. Examine the insect, its eggs, feeding patterns and the type of damage it causes. If you cannot identify it confidently, seek advice from a qualified agronomist or agricultural extension officer.
    • Assess the level of infestation. The presence of a few insects does not automatically mean your crop needs spraying. Consider how widespread the infestation is, whether insect numbers are increasing and the extent of the damage.
    • Consider the crop’s growth stage. Pay particular attention during flowering and pod formation, when insect damage can affect pod development and yield.
    • Match the insecticide to the target pest. Different insecticides control different insects. A product that works against one pest may not effectively control another. Always confirm that the product is registered for the crop and target insect pest in Nigeria.
    • Consider other control methods. Depending on the insect pest and the level of infestation, cultural, mechanical and biological control methods may help reduce pest populations. Insecticides should be used when necessary and as part of an integrated approach.

    Correct identification helps you choose an appropriate control method and avoid spending money on insecticides that may not solve the problem.

    3. Prevent: Adopt Practices That Help Manage Insect Pests

    Integrated Pest Management does not rely on insecticides alone. Preventive practices can help reduce insect pest problems and limit the need for repeated spraying. Some of these include:

    Practising Good Farm Hygiene

    Where appropriate, remove heavily infested crop residues and manage volunteer plants that may harbour insect pests. Control weeds that compete with the crop or serve as alternative hosts for certain insects.

    Follow recommended crop rotation practices where they can help disrupt the life cycles of specific insect pests. Rotation choices should be based on the pest involved and its host plants.

    Planting at the Recommended Time

    Planting at the locally recommended period can help your crop establish well and may reduce exposure to certain insect pest outbreaks.

    Use suitable varieties recommended for your location and follow good agronomic practices to support healthy crop development.

    Protect Beneficial Insects

    Not all insects found on your farm are harmful. Some are natural enemies of crop pests and help keep their populations under control. Pollinators also play an important role in crop production.

    Avoid unnecessary insecticide applications that may harm these beneficial insects. When chemical control is necessary, choose suitable registered products and follow label instructions to minimise harm to non-target organisms.

    Monitor Your Crop Throughout the Season

    Insect pest management is an ongoing activity. Continue inspecting your crop throughout its growth stages, paying particular attention to new infestations and changes in insect activity.

    Regular monitoring helps you detect problems early and determine whether your preventive practices and control measures are working.

    4. Spray: Use Insecticides Responsibly When Necessary

    When field scouting confirms an insect pest problem that requires chemical control, select an insecticide registered for the intended crop and target insect pest in Nigeria. Saro Agrosciences offers a range of insecticide solutions for legumes, including Kombat, Cypertex, Vanguish, Solitex and Sting.

    The right insecticide is one that is effective against the identified insect pest, registered for use on the crop and applied according to its label instructions. Do not assume that every insecticide will control every insect pest.

    Before spraying, follow these guidelines:

    • Read the product label. Confirm that the insecticide is registered for the crop and target insect pest, and check the approved application rate and method.
    • Use the recommended rate. Do not increase the dosage in an attempt to achieve faster or better results. Incorrect application rates can increase risks without improving control.
    • Wear the required protective equipment. Follow label instructions for handling, mixing, application and cleanup.
    • Apply at the recommended time. Crop growth stage, insect activity and weather conditions can affect application effectiveness. Follow the product label and applicable safety guidance.
    • Protect beneficial insects. Avoid exposing bees, pollinators and other beneficial insects to insecticide sprays. Follow label precautions, particularly when the crop is flowering.
    • Protect people, animals and water sources. Avoid spray drift into neighbouring fields, homes, water bodies and other sensitive areas.
    • Observe the pre-harvest interval. This is the required period between the final insecticide application and harvest. Follow the interval stated on the product label.
    • Check your spraying equipment. Ensure your sprayer is in good working condition and properly calibrated to deliver the recommended application rate.

    Never mix insecticides or combine them with other pesticides unless the product labels or qualified technical guidance confirm that the combination is appropriate.

    Also, avoid unnecessary or excessively frequent spraying. Repeated use of the same insecticide or mode of action can contribute to insecticide resistance, making insect pests more difficult to control.

    After spraying, return to the field to assess the results. If the insect pests remain, investigate the cause before applying another treatment. Poor results may be linked to incorrect pest identification, unsuitable product selection, application errors, weather conditions or insecticide resistance.

    5. Avoid Common Insect Pest Management Mistakes

    Even when farmers have access to crop protection products, certain mistakes can undermine their efforts.

    • Spraying without scouting: Applying insecticides simply because neighbouring farmers are spraying can lead to unnecessary costs. Inspect your own field before deciding.
    • Using the wrong insecticide: An insecticide may not control the particular insect pest affecting your crop. Identify the target pest and confirm that the product is approved for its control.
    • Ignoring the product label: Incorrect application rates, unsuitable application methods and failure to observe pre-harvest intervals can put farmers, consumers and the environment at risk.
    • Spraying without considering beneficial insects: Unnecessary insecticide applications can harm natural enemies of insect pests and pollinators, disrupting the balance of the farm ecosystem.
    • Repeating an ineffective treatment: If insect pests remain after spraying, investigate why the treatment failed. Follow appropriate resistance-management guidance, including rotating between insecticides with different modes of action when recommended.
    • Stopping field monitoring after spraying: An insecticide application does not eliminate the need for further inspection. Continue checking for surviving insects, new infestations and signs of crop recovery.

    Avoiding these mistakes helps farmers make better use of their insecticides, manage production costs and protect their crops more effectively.

    6. Make Insect Pest Management Part of Your Farm Routine

    A good IPM programme begins before insect damage becomes severe and continues throughout the growing season.

    Build these habits into your farm routine:

    • Inspect your field regularly for insect pests and signs of feeding damage.
    • Record the insects observed, affected crop parts and extent of damage.
    • Confirm the identity of the target insect pest before choosing a treatment.
    • Adopt preventive and non-chemical control methods where appropriate.
    • Use registered insecticides only when necessary and according to label instructions.
    • Protect beneficial insects and pollinators when planning control measures.
    • Revisit the field after treatment to assess insect control and determine the next step.

    Where available, work with agricultural extension officers and qualified agronomists to improve insect identification and treatment decisions. Keeping simple field records can also help you recognise recurring infestations and make better decisions in future growing seasons.

    Protect Your Legumes with Better Insect Pest Management

    Successful legume production requires more than reacting to visible insect damage. It requires regular field scouting, correct insect identification and the right control method at the right time.

    Integrated Pest Management provides a practical approach to managing insect pests while reducing unnecessary insecticide applications, protecting beneficial organisms and supporting healthy crop development.

    At Saro Agrosciences, we remain committed to supporting farmers with practical crop protection knowledge and solutions that help them make informed decisions throughout the growing season.

    Download the FarmPropa app, available on Android and iOS, to use the Report an Issue feature and receive responses from agronomic experts. You can also speak with a trusted SARO agro-dealer or follow Saro Agrosciences across our social media platforms for practical farming tips.

  • From Leaf Damage to Empty Pods: 5 Pest Warning Signs Every Nigerian Farmer Should Know

    From Leaf Damage to Empty Pods: 5 Pest Warning Signs Every Nigerian Farmer Should Know

    A few holes in your leaves may not look like a big problem. But when pest damage goes unnoticed, it can affect flowering, pod formation and the final harvest.

    For farmers growing soybeans and cowpea, checking your farm regularly can help you spot warning signs early and take the right action before the damage gets worse.

    Here are five pest warning signs every Nigerian legume farmer should know.

    1. Holes and Chewed Leaves

    Have you noticed small holes, rough edges or leaves that look as if something has been eating them?

    Chewing insects, including caterpillars and beetles, may be responsible. Some pests feed on the edges of leaves, while others leave holes across the leaf surface.

    What to look out for

    • Fresh holes appearing on young or mature leaves.
    • Leaves with irregular edges or missing sections.
    • Caterpillars, beetles or insect droppings around damaged leaves.

    What should you do?

    Check both sides of the leaves and inspect nearby plants for insects. A few holes do not always mean serious damage, but increasing damage across the farm deserves attention.

    2. Leaves That Curl, Turn Yellow or Look Distorted

    Not all pest damage comes with visible holes. Some insects feed by sucking sap from plant tissues, causing leaves to curl, wrinkle, turn yellow or become stunted.

    Aphids and whiteflies are examples of pests that can cause this type of damage. Some also spread plant diseases.

    What to look out for

    • Leaves curling inward or becoming distorted.
    • Yellow patches or unusual discolouration.
    • Small insects clustered around young shoots or the undersides of leaves.
    • Plants that appear weaker than others growing nearby.

    What should you do?

    Inspect affected leaves closely and compare them with healthy plants. Remember that nutrient deficiencies, water stress and diseases can cause similar symptoms, so do not assume every yellow or curled leaf is a pest problem.

    3. Damaged Flowers and Falling Buds

    Your cowpea plants may look healthy, but what happens when they begin flowering?

    Pests that attack flowers can interfere with the crop’s ability to develop pods. Thrips and some flower-feeding insects can damage delicate plant tissues, while other factors, such as heat and moisture stress, can also cause flowers to drop.

    What to look out for

    • Flowers with brown or damaged parts.
    • Flowers dropping before pods begin to form.
    • Small insects around flower buds and open flowers.
    • Fewer developing pods than you would expect from the number of flowers.

    What should you do?

    Pay closer attention to your plants during flowering. Inspect the flowers for insects and damage, and check whether weather conditions or moisture stress could also be contributing to flower loss.

    4. Holes in Pods and Damaged Seeds

    When pods begin to form, your crop is entering an important stage. Unfortunately, some pests target the pods themselves.

    The legume pod borer, for example, can attack cowpea flowers and pods. Its larvae may bore into pods and feed on developing seeds, reducing the quality and quantity of the harvest.

    What to look out for

    • Small holes on pods.
    • Insect droppings around pod openings.
    • Damaged, shrivelled or missing seeds inside affected pods.
    • Caterpillars hiding among flowers and pods.

    What should you do?

    Inspect pods regularly, especially during pod formation. If you find holes, examine the affected pods and nearby flowers for larvae or other signs of insect activity.

    Do not wait until many pods show damage before investigating the problem.

    5. Empty Pods, Poor Seed Development and Reduced Harvest

    One of the most frustrating experiences for a farmer is harvesting a crop that looked promising, only to discover that many pods contain few seeds or none at all.

    Pest damage during flowering and pod development can contribute to poor seed formation. However, empty pods and poorly filled seeds can also result from inadequate pollination, water stress, poor nutrition and other growing conditions.

    What to look out for

    • Pods that contain fewer seeds than expected.
    • Seeds that are small, shrivelled or visibly damaged.
    • A high number of poorly developed pods.
    • Signs of earlier insect damage on flowers and pods.

    What should you do?

    Open a few affected pods and inspect the seeds. Look for feeding damage, holes or insect remains, and compare them with healthy pods. Identifying the likely cause will help you decide on the appropriate next step.

    Don’t Wait Until the Damage Spreads

    The earlier you notice unusual changes in your crop, the sooner you can investigate the problem.

    Make regular farm inspections part of your routine, especially during vegetative growth, flowering and pod formation.

    When you notice something unusual

    • Inspect: Check the affected leaves, stems, flowers and pods.
    • Identify: Look for insects, feeding marks and other symptoms.
    • Act: Seek reliable advice before choosing a control method.

    Remember, similar symptoms can have different causes. Correct identification matters because the right response depends on the pest and the stage of crop development.

    Conclusion

    Pest damage often starts small, a few chewed leaves, curled shoots or flowers dropping too early. Left unchecked, these warning signs can lead to damaged pods, poor seed development and reduced yields. Inspect your farm regularly from vegetative growth through flowering and pod formation. Spot the signs early, identify the pest before taking action, and seek reliable advice when in doubt. Early detection can make all the difference to your cowpea and bean harvest. Download FarmPropa on Android or iOS for product recommendations and good agronomic practices. Follow our social media pages for more practical crop protection tips.

  • Don’t Skip These Cowpea & Soybean Tasks

    Don’t Skip These Cowpea & Soybean Tasks

    Growing cowpea and soybean isn’t just about planting and waiting for harvest. There are a few key tasks that make the difference between a bumper harvest and a disappointing one and many farmers skip them without realizing the cost. Here’s what you shouldn’t overlook this season.

    1. Land Preparation

    Don’t rush this stage. Proper tillage loosens the soil, improves drainage, and gives roots room to grow strong. Skipping this step often leads to poor germination.

    2. Timely Planting

    Planting late or too early affects yield. Cowpea and soybean both need the right soil moisture and temperature to germinate well. Stick to the recommended planting window for your zone.

    3. Pre-Emergence Weed Control

    This is one of the most skipped steps and one of the costliest. Applying a pre-emergence herbicide like Buster (for cowpea) or Triplex/Buster (for soybean) right after planting stops weeds before they even start competing with your crop for nutrients, water, and sunlight.

    4. Post-Emergence Follow-Up

    Even with pre-emergence treatment, some weeds will still try to come through. Twig handles this stage for both cowpea and soybean, keeping your field clean as the crop develops.

    5. Fertilizer Application

    Cowpea and soybean are legumes, but they still need the right nutrients at the right growth stages to maximize pod formation and grain fill. Don’t guess follow a proper fertilizer schedule.

    6. Pest and Disease Monitoring

    Regular scouting helps you catch problems early pod borers, aphids, fungal infections before they spread and cause major losses. A few minutes walking your field each week can save your whole season.

    7. Weeding Beyond Herbicide

    Herbicides help, but they’re not a total replacement for physical weeding where needed, especially in high-pressure weed zones. Keep checking your field.

    8. Harvest Timing

    Harvesting too early or too late affects grain quality and yield. Watch your crop closely as it matures so you harvest at just the right time.

    Every one of these steps matters. Skip one, and you risk losing more than you think in yield, in quality, in income.

    Need guidance on any of these stages? Download the FarmPropa app for step-by-step support through every stage of your cowpea and soybean farming journey. You can also speak with a trusted Saro Agro-dealer or contact us via our social media platforms.

  • Cowpea Farming in Nigeria: How to Protect Your Yield at the Reproductive Stage

    Cowpea Farming in Nigeria: How to Protect Your Yield at the Reproductive Stage

    You have planted your cowpea, managed the weeds, and watched the crop grow. Now the plants are flowering and beginning to form pods.

    This is not the time to relax.

    The reproductive stage, flowering, pod formation and seed development is one of the most important stages in cowpea production. What happens during this period can have a major effect on the number and quality of pods you eventually harvest.

    Pests, diseases, weeds and poor field management can still reduce your expected yield if they are not properly managed.

    So, how can you protect your cowpea crop at this important stage?

    1. Scout Your Farm Regularly

    The first step is to know what is happening in your field.

    Walk through your farm regularly and check the leaves, flowers and pods. Look for signs of insect attack, damaged flowers, holes in leaves, discoloured plant parts or poorly developing pods.

    Common insect pests can become a serious problem around flowering and pod formation. Early detection gives you a better chance of taking the right action before the damage becomes severe.

    Do not wait until you can see widespread damage before checking your farm.

    2. Pay Attention to Pod-Sucking and Pod-Damaging Insects

    As cowpea begins to flower and form pods, the crop becomes particularly valuable to certain insect pests.

    Some insects feed on flowers and developing pods, while others suck plant sap. Their feeding can cause flowers to drop, damage young pods or affect the development of the seeds inside the pods.

    This is why regular scouting is important during the reproductive stage.

    If you notice increasing insect pest activity, correctly identify the pest and use the appropriate Saro recommended insecticide—Kombat, Cypertex, Vanguish, or Sting—for the specific pest. Always follow the product label for the correct rate, timing and application instructions.

    3. Do Not Ignore Diseases

    Insect pests are not the only threat during flowering and pod formation.

    Frequent rainfall, high humidity and poor air movement can create conditions that favour diseases. Watch for unusual spots, discolouration, wilting, rotting or other changes in the leaves, stems and pods.

    Good field hygiene, proper spacing, good drainage and regular scouting can help reduce disease pressure.

    If you notice signs of disease, correctly identify the problem and seek advice on the appropriate treatment. Blue Snow is one of Saro’s recommended fungicides for fungal disease management.

    4. Keep Weeds Under Control

    Even when your cowpea is already flowering, weeds can continue to compete with the crop.

    They compete for water, nutrients, sunlight and space. Heavy weed growth can also make it more difficult to scout the farm properly and identify pests or diseases early.

    Do not allow weeds to take over your field.

    Where weed control is necessary, use a product that is recommended for cowpea and the weeds present. Pay attention to the crop and weed growth stages and always follow the recommended application rate and timing.

    5. Be Careful With Crop Protection During Flowering

    The reproductive stage requires careful crop protection decisions.

    Do not simply spray because you see insects or because another farmer is spraying. First identify the problem and confirm that the product is suitable for your crop and the pest or disease you are targeting.

    More product does not mean better protection. Using more than the recommended rate can increase costs and may create crop protection problems.

    Always read and follow the product label or speak with a trusted Saro agro-dealer for guidance.

    6. Pay Attention to Weather and Field Conditions

    Weather can affect both the health of your crop and the effectiveness of crop protection applications.

    During periods of frequent rainfall, monitor your field closely for disease and waterlogging. Make sure excess water can drain away properly.

    Before applying any crop protection product, check the weather conditions and follow the product label regarding suitable application conditions.

    Avoid unnecessary applications, especially when rain is expected to wash the product away.

    7. Protect the Crop Until Harvest

    Seeing pods on your cowpea plant is a good sign, but the work is not finished.

    Continue monitoring the field as the pods develop and the seeds mature. Late-season pest attacks, disease and weeds can still affect the final harvest.

    Also pay attention to the recommended pre-harvest interval (PHI) of any crop protection product you use. Do not harvest before the specified period has passed.

    Protect Your Yield by Acting at the Right Time

    A good cowpea harvest starts long before harvest day.

    At the reproductive stage, every flower and developing pod matters. Regular scouting, timely weed management, proper pest and disease monitoring, good field management and responsible use of crop protection products can help you protect the yield you have worked hard to produce.

    Do not wait until the damage is already severe.

    Scout early. Identify the problem. Take the right action. Protect your yield.

    Need More Farming Guidance?

    For more information on good agronomic practices on Cowpea, download the FarmPropa App, available on Android and iOS. You can also speak with a trusted SARO agro-dealer or contact us via our social media platforms.

  • From Planting to Profit: How to Get More from Your Soybean Farm

    From Planting to Profit: How to Get More from Your Soybean Farm

    Soybean is more than just another crop to put in the ground. With strong demand for food, animal feed and other uses, it can be a valuable source of income for farmers.

    But getting more from soybean farming is not simply about planting more acres. Your returns can depend on the decisions you make before planting, during crop establishment, throughout the growing season and even before harvest.

    So, how do you move from simply planting soybean to producing a harvest that gives you better returns?

    Here are some important things to consider.

    1. Start With the Right Soybean Variety

    The variety you plant can make a big difference to your harvest.

    Before choosing your seed, consider your location, maturity period, yield potential and the characteristics that matter most to your farm.

    SC-SL01

    If you are looking for an early-maturing soybean variety with large seeds, good yield potential, high protein content and high pod clearance for mechanised farming, SC-SL01 is worth considering.

    It matures in about 90 days and has an average yield potential of 3–3.5 tons per hectare.

    It is recommended for the Derived Savanna, Guinea Savanna, Sudan Savanna and Sahel Savanna ecologies.

    SC-Signal

    SC-Signal is another early-maturing option, taking about 90 days to maturity. It offers good yield potential, high haulm yield and tolerance to rust, while its high pod clearance makes it suitable for mechanised farming.

    It is recommended for the Northern and Southern Guinea Savanna, Derived Savanna, Sudan Savanna and Sahel Savanna.

    The lesson is simple: don’t just ask, “Which soybean seed can I get?”

    Ask, “Which variety is suited to my farm and what I want to achieve?”

    Choosing the right variety is one of the first steps towards getting more from your soybean farm.

    2. Prepare Your Land Properly

    Good soybean production starts before the seed goes into the soil.

    Prepare your land properly and give the crop a clean environment to establish. A poorly prepared field can create problems with weed competition, uneven crop establishment and other challenges that may affect your final yield.

    Good land preparation is an investment in the crop you are about to plant.

    3. Plant at the Right Time and Spacing

    Soybean needs the right conditions to establish properly.

    Plant according to the recommended spacing and depth for your chosen variety, and make sure you are working within the appropriate planting window for your location.

    Good establishment gives your crop a better start and helps create a more uniform field.

    4. Give Your Soybean the Right Start

    Seed quality is important, but so is what happens after planting.

    Pay attention to soil fertility and follow the recommended agronomic practices for your variety and location. Seed treatment with the appropriate inoculant can also support soybean production by helping the crop make better use of nitrogen through biological nitrogen fixation.

    Don’t guess your way through the season. Use recommendations suited to your crop, variety and farm conditions.

    5. Don’t Let Weeds Take Your Profit

    Weeds compete with soybean for water, nutrients, light and space.

    The longer weeds are allowed to compete with your crop, the greater the potential impact on crop growth and yield.

    This is why weed management should be planned early. Identify the weeds on your farm, know your crop stage and use the right herbicide at the recommended rate and timing. Use Buster or Triplex for pre-emergence weed control and Twig for post-emergence control.

    If you are unsure about how much herbicide you need, use the herbicide calculator on the FarmPropa app as a guide.

    6. Scout Your Farm Regularly

    Don’t wait until your soybean field is visibly damaged before you start paying attention.

    Walk through your farm regularly. Look at the leaves, stems, flowers and pods. Check for signs of insect pests, diseases, nutrient problems or unusual growth.

    Control insect pests with recommended insecticides such as Kombat or Vanguish, and treat fungal diseases with an effective fungicide like Blue Snow.

    Early detection gives you more time to respond appropriately and can help prevent a small problem from becoming a major loss.

    7. Protect the Crop Through to Harvest

    Getting a good crop established is only part of the job.

    Continue monitoring your soybean throughout flowering, pod development and maturation. Where crop protection is needed, use the appropriate product according to its label and recommended use.

    Remember: applying more product does not automatically mean better protection. The right product, rate and timing matter.

    8. Think About Profit Before You Harvest

    A profitable soybean farm is not created at harvest. It starts with planning.

    Before you plant, think about your expected costs, yield target, available market and likely selling price.

    Know what you are spending on land preparation, seed, fertiliser, crop protection, labour and harvesting. This helps you understand what your crop needs to produce for the farm to make a worthwhile return.

    The goal is not simply to harvest soybean.

    The goal is to produce a good harvest and turn it into a good business.

    Conclusion: Don’t Just Plant. Plant for Profit.

    Soybean can be a profitable crop, but good returns don’t happen by accident.

    It starts with choosing a variety suited to your farm, preparing your land properly, planting correctly, managing weeds and pests on time, monitoring your crop and planning for the market before harvest.

    Every decision you make can affect what eventually comes out of your field.

    So don’t just plant soybean.

    Plan for a good harvest.

    Plan for a better return.

    Plan to farm smarter.

    Get more good agronomic practices, the right products and the right information, Download the FarmPropa (Available on Android and iOS) Follow our social media platforms to get more from this season.

  • Don’t Spray Too Early or Too Late — How to Know When Your Cowpea/Soybean Is Ready for Weed Control

    Don’t Spray Too Early or Too Late — How to Know When Your Cowpea/Soybean Is Ready for Weed Control

    Weeds don’t wait for your crop to grow before they start competing.

    Once cowpea or soybean emerges, weeds can quickly begin competing with the crop for water, nutrients, sunlight and space. But when it comes to weed control, timing matters.

    Spray too early, and you may not get the result you expect. Spray too late, and weeds may already be well established and competing aggressively with your crop.

    So, how do you know when your cowpea or soybean is ready for weed control?

    Start With the Crop Stage

    The first thing to consider is the growth stage of your crop.

    After emergence, cowpea and soybean gradually develop more leaves and establish their canopy. During this early growth period, weeds can compete strongly with the young crop.

    However, not every herbicide can be applied at every crop stage. Some products are designed for use before the crop emerges, while others are suitable for application after emergence.

    This is why farmers should always check the product label for the recommended crop stage before spraying.

    Why Spraying Too Early Can Be a Problem

    Spraying too early can mean applying a product outside its recommended timing or before the weeds and crop are at the appropriate stage.

    Depending on the herbicide, this may reduce effectiveness or increase the risk of crop injury.

    For post-emergence herbicides especially, application timing is important because the product may be designed to work best when weeds are actively growing and still at a susceptible stage.

    Earlier is not always better.

    Always follow the manufacturer’s recommended timing.

    Why Spraying Too Late Can Also Cost You

    Waiting too long can give weeds time to become larger and more established.

    By then, they may have already taken up valuable water and nutrients and blocked sunlight from reaching your crop.

    Large or mature weeds can also be more difficult to control with some herbicides.

    This is why farmers should not wait until the field looks completely overgrown before thinking about weed management.

    The goal is timely control, not simply late rescue.

    Look at the Weeds

    The condition of the weeds is another important clue.

    Walk through your field and check whether weeds are:

    • Newly emerged and actively growing.
    • Small and at an early growth stage.
    • Becoming established and spreading quickly.
    • Already large, mature or producing seeds.

    Many weed-control products work best when susceptible weeds are still young and actively growing, but the exact timing depends on the herbicide being used.

    Always use the specific product’s label recommendation as your guide.

    What About Cowpea?

    Cowpea can be particularly vulnerable to weed competition during its early development.

    Farmers should monitor the field regularly after emergence and avoid allowing weeds to establish unchecked.

    If you are considering herbicide application, confirm that the product is specifically recommended for cowpea and check its instructions for the correct crop and weed stages.

    Never assume that a herbicide suitable for another crop is automatically safe for cowpea. Saro Agrosciences offers Buster as a pre-emergence option and Twig as a post-emergence option for cowpea.

    What About Soybean?

    Soybean also needs good weed management, particularly while the crop is establishing.

    As with cowpea, the appropriate weed-control timing depends on the herbicide, the weed species, the crop stage and whether the product is intended for pre-emergence or post-emergence use.

    Regular scouting helps farmers identify problems early and make decisions before weeds become difficult to manage. For soybean, Triplex and Buster work as pre-emergence options, while Twig serves as a post-emergence option.

    Before You Spray, Check These Five Things

    Before reaching for your knapsack sprayer, ask yourself:

    1. What stage is my crop? Know whether your cowpea or soybean is at the crop stage recommended for the product.
    2. What weeds are present? Identify the weeds and check their growth stage.
    3. Is this herbicide recommended for my crop? Never spray a product simply because it worked on another farm or another crop.
    4. Am I using the correct rate? More product does not mean better control. Follow the recommended dosage.
    5. Are the weather and field conditions suitable? Wind, rainfall and other conditions can affect herbicide application and performance. Follow the product label for application conditions.

    Conclusion

    Successful weed control is not about being the first farmer to spray or the farmer who sprays the most. It is about getting the timing right.

    Don’t spray too early just because you see the first few weeds. And don’t wait until weeds have taken over your cowpea or soybean field.

    Scout your farm. Know your crop stage. Identify your weeds. Choose the right product, and follow the recommended timing and rate.

    Don’t spray too early. Don’t spray too late. Spray at the right time.

    For more information on good agronomic practices:

    Download the FarmPropa App, available on Android and iOS, speak with a trusted SARO agro-dealer, or follow SARO Agrosciences on Facebook, X (Twitter), LinkedIn and Instagram for more practical farming tips.

  • Fungal Diseases Can Cut Your Harvest: Protect Your Crops This Season

    Fungal Diseases Can Cut Your Harvest: Protect Your Crops This Season

    A healthy crop can look promising today and still suffer serious losses tomorrow.

    One of the major threats farmers face during the growing season is fungal disease. When conditions are favourable, fungi can spread quickly across a field, damaging leaves, stems, flowers, fruits and grains, and reducing both the quality and quantity of your harvest.

    The good news? Early detection and proper crop management can help you stay ahead.

    What Causes Fungal Diseases?

    Fungal diseases thrive when the right conditions come together. Excess moisture, prolonged rainfall, poor air circulation, overcrowded crops and infected plant materials can all increase the risk of disease.

    Some common signs to watch for include:

    • Brown, black or yellow spots on leaves
    • White, grey or powdery growth on plant surfaces
    • Wilting or rotting of plant parts
    • Lesions on stems and leaves
    • Premature leaf drop
    • Poor fruit or grain development
    • Discolouration of harvested produce

    Once a fungal disease becomes established, it can spread from one plant to another through rain splash, wind, irrigation water, farm tools and infected crop residues.

    That is why waiting until the disease becomes severe can cost you valuable yield.

    Crops Are Most at Risk When Conditions Are Wet

    During periods of frequent rainfall and high humidity, farmers need to pay closer attention to their fields.

    Moisture that remains on leaves for long periods creates favourable conditions for many fungal pathogens. Dense crop canopies can make the problem worse because they reduce air movement and slow drying.

    Don’t just watch your crops grow, inspect them regularly.

    Walk through your farm and check both the upper and lower surfaces of leaves, especially areas where moisture tends to remain.

    How Can You Protect Your Crops?

    1. Start With Good Farm Hygiene

    Remove or properly manage infected crop residues after harvest. Leaving heavily infected plant material in the field can allow disease-causing organisms to survive and affect the next crop.

    Also, avoid moving contaminated soil, plant material or farm tools from an infected area to a healthy one.

    2. Give Your Crops Enough Space

    Overcrowded crops create a humid environment within the canopy.

    Follow the recommended spacing for your crop to improve air circulation and allow leaves to dry faster after rainfall.

    3. Avoid Unnecessary Wetness

    Where irrigation is used, avoid practices that keep foliage unnecessarily wet for long periods. Good field drainage is also important, particularly in areas prone to waterlogging.

    4. Scout Your Farm Regularly

    Don’t wait until you see widespread disease.

    Make crop inspection part of your routine. Early signs such as small leaf spots, unusual discolouration or lesions can help you identify a developing problem before it spreads throughout the field.

    5. Use Crop Protection Products Correctly

    Where a fungal disease has been identified and fungicide treatment is recommended, use a registered product appropriate for the crop and disease, and always follow the label for the correct dose, timing and application method.

    For farmers using SARO crop protection solutions, products such as Blue Snow can be part of a well-managed crop protection programme where appropriate. Always confirm the product label and recommended use for your particular crop and disease before application.

    Remember: More product does not mean better protection. Applying above the recommended rate can increase costs and may create other crop protection problems.

    Protecting Your Harvest Starts Before Disease Appears

    Good disease management is not just about spraying.

    It is about combining healthy planting materials, proper spacing, field sanitation, good nutrition, regular scouting, proper water management and timely crop protection.

    And when disease pressure is high, don’t wait until your crop is already badly affected before taking action.

    Your harvest represents months of work, money and effort. Protect it by paying attention to your crop throughout the season.

    Don’t Let Fungal Disease Take Your Yield

    A disease-free-looking field today is not a guarantee of a disease-free harvest tomorrow.

    Scout early. Act early. Farm smart. Protect your yield.

    Need guidance on agronomic practices? Download the FarmPropa App, available on Android and iOS, speak with a trusted SARO agro-dealer, or follow SARO Agrosciences on social media more practical farming tips and updates.