How to Control Fall Armyworm in Maize (2026 Guide)

⚡ Quick Answers

What is the best pesticide for Fall Armyworm in Kenya?

We recommend a combination of contact and systemic insecticides such as Coragen or Radiant, applied at the first sign of window-pane damage on leaves.

When should I spray for Fall Armyworm?

Spray early in the morning or late in the evening when the larvae are actively feeding outside the whorl.

Identifying Fall Armyworm (FAW)

The Fall Armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) is a devastating pest in Kenya. Look for:

"Window-pane" feeding marks on young leaves.

Frass (sawdust-like excrement) in the maize whorl.

The caterpillar itself, which has an inverted "Y" shape on its head and four spots arranged in a square on its second-to-last segment.

Chemical Control Specifications

Product	Active Ingredient	Application Rate	Best Time to Apply
Coragen	Chlorantraniliprole	3ml / 20L water	Early morning
Radiant	Spinetoram	10ml / 20L water	Late evening
Belt	Flubendiamide	5ml / 20L water	Early morning

Biological Control Methods

For organic farmers or as part of IPM (Integrated Pest Management):

Push-Pull Technology: Planting Desmodium between maize rows and Napier grass around the field borders.

Ash Application: Applying wood ash or sand directly into the funnel of the maize plant can suffocate young larvae.