Eco-friendly management of cowpea thrips (Megalurothrips distalis) using plant extracts

Abstract

Mixed formulation, azadirachtin+garlic and azadirachtin+Spilanthes provided 66.94% and 66.44% thrips reduction 10 days after application respectively in cowpea crop, which was at par with imidacloprid. There are no significant differences among those treatments. Yield of these two treatments are also at par with the imidacloprid. Recommended doses of azadirachtin (1500 ppm) mixing with garlic or Spilanthes is good for thrips reduction. So they are recommended for thrips management. These treatments have no phyto-toxic effect on plants. So plant extract may be recommended for thrips management and included in Integrated Pest Management (IPM).

Keywords

• Bio-pesticides, Bio-safety, Organic cultivation, Plant extract, Vegetables