Harnessing phytochemicals in sustainable and green agriculture

Abstract

In the face of escalating global temperatures, the agricultural industry needs more sustainable options to combat increasing pest persistence while meeting the demands of the growing population. Phytochemicals offer a promising organic alternative to synthetic pesticides by improving crop yields and providing pest specificity that reduces harm to humans or wildlife. By harnessing these naturally occurring diverse compounds, we can enhance pest control measures while ensuring environmental safety. However, thus far, comprehensive discussions on the potential, recent advancements, innovative applications, and limitations of phytochemicals in pest control remain limited. No studies have yet fully explored the vast versatility of phytochemical applications in both field and research models, encompassing innovative methods such as essential oils, cover cropping, intercropping, and allelopathy, which can offer pest resistance at various stages of crop production. In this review, we draw on research from the past decade to comprehensively discuss the challenges and urgent need for organic farming, the diverse applications of phytochemicals in pest control, and the current limitations in this field. We also highlighted that phytochemicals represent an underutilized resource for organic biocontrol, deserving greater attention for their potential to expand agricultural markets and create organic solutions that benefit farmers, consumers, and wildlife alike. Given the increasing demand for organic food to enhance human health, this review is both timely and essential. It makes significant contributions to agricultural and food science by offering practical insights and sustainable solutions for effective pest management.

Keywords

• Organic farming
• Plant biocontrol
• Organic pesticides
• Diversified cropping
• Soil health