In fact, dressing is the only form of protection we have at our disposal in the initial stages of development of winter rapeseed. Taking into account the current pool – primarily of insecticides – as well as the dates of their use, it turns out that our hands are basically tied. In fact, we have no tools other than seasoning to fight pests in the initial stages of rapeseed development. However, if we pay attention to the damage that can be caused by their feeding, it turns out that it is worth choosing a treatment, e.g. an insecticide, every time. It should be mentioned that while fungicide dressing is generally a standard when it comes to treating rapeseed, this is not necessarily the case with insecticides. An insecticide treatment is available as an option in some cases.
How dangerous are pests in the initial stages of rapeseed development?
Please note that pests in the initial stages of rapeseed development can cause both direct and indirect damage. And unfortunately, this damage will always occur to a greater or lesser extent, but there is no chance that pests will not appear on the plantation.
For example, the rapeseed flea beetle can, among other things, bite holes in leaves and cotyledons. In this way, rapeseed loses a lot of assimilation surface from the very beginning and the energy is transferred not to development, but to regeneration. In such damaged plants, pathogens have a much easier job and take over the plant faster. A vicious circle is created because the fungicides used are less well distributed in the severely damaged plant, and therefore protection against diseases is more difficult.
