Spodoptera frugiperda MANAGEMENT IN Zea mays L. USING VINASSE AND CORN-MULBERRY MULCHING

Background: Soil cover with crop residues is an ancient tradition that is gaining momentum in conservation agriculture´s current trends. Objective: The objective of this research is to evaluate the effect of soil mulching with corn-mulberry on Spodoptera frugiperda management in corn Zea mays variety Tuson after imbibition in vinasse. Methodology: The first part of the experiment evaluates the effect on germination with seed previously soaked in vinasse in 1:15 ratio under controlled conditions for 30 min. The second part was developed in the Unidad Empresarial de Base “Antonio Maceo” Yara, Granma, Cuba under field conditions, which consisted of two treatments: (T1) corn-mulberry soil mulching 2 t ha-1 before planting and (T2) control group without cover. The percentage of maize plants were evaluated from 1 to 3 and from 4 to 5 degrees in damage at 30 days, in addition to agricultural yield at 150 days. Both experimental stages were performed in a randomized complete block design (RCBD). Results: The results showed that germination percentages increased by using 1:15 vinasse, whereas the corn-mulberry soil cover decreased S. frugiperda incidence at the same time and increased agricultural yields. Implications: Future studies should find an equilibrium point that guarantees the use of crop residuals as agroecological practices in soil protection and conservation, as well as in animal feed sources in places and season where natural forage is affected. Conclusion: Soil cover with corn-mulberry mulching from leaf waste before sowing decreases S. frugiperda incidence and corn yield increases.