Sugar cane is vulnerable to numerous harmful insects, including white grub, aphids, cochineals, and especially “borers” that sap the plant’s resources. Producers use biological controls (parasitic insects that kill borer larvae), chemical treatments (pesticides) and genetic modification (development of varieties resistant to parasites) to combat the insects.
Rats also cause a significant amount of harm. The spreading of poisoned seeds and the use of anticoagulant baits are two ways of combating rodents. Eelworms, which are mainly found in sandy soils, and termites also pose a threat to harvests.
Sugar cane is at risk from three types of diseases. Some diseases are caused by a fungus, such as mildew, smut, red rot or rust. Others are spread by bacteria (gummosis, scald, and feeding on primary buds). Viruses can also damage cane crops. They include mosaic disease, Fiji disease and chlorotic streak virus.
New varieties of sugar cane have been developed in response to these problems. Other efforts, such as quarantine and knife disinfection, can be undertaken to avoid the spread of disease. Chemical products and heat can be used to protect and heal cuttings. Finally, sanitary purification of nurseries and fields may be performed, if necessary.