How to control shoot fly in jowar (sorghum) seedlings?

Shoot fly attacks young sorghum seedlings in the first three weeks and causes the central dead heart symptom. Manage it with an integrated approach. Sow at the recommended time with the first proper monsoon rains to escape peak fly activity, and use a slightly higher seed rate so you can thin out affected plants and keep a healthy stand. Seed treatment with a recommended systemic insecticide such as imidacloprid or thiamethoxam at sowing protects seedlings in the critical early period. Remove and destroy dead heart plants. Resistant or tolerant varieties also reduce damage. Confirm the current insecticide, dose and any seed treatment recommendation with your KVK before use.