EVALUATION OF BIOPESTICIDES DERIVED FROM GARLIC (ALLIUM SATIVUM) AND HING (ASAFOETIDA) FOR CONTROLLING WHITEFLIES IN OKRA CROPS AND APHIDS IN POTATO CROPS

Abstract

This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of biopesticides in managing whiteflies (Bemisia tabasi) in okra crops and aphids in potato crops. Specifically, biopesticides derived from garlic (Allium Sativum) and asafoetida, in conjunction with an adjuvant developed by the Nuclear Institute for Food and Agriculture (NIFA) in Peshawar, were investigated. These biopesticides represent a promising alternative to conventional synthetic insecticides, as they are highly effective and environmentally friendly. The research was conducted in a field at NIFA during the year 2018.

Methods: Three biopesticides were examined, including extracts from A. Sativum and asafoetida, as well as a combined formulation of both. Whiteflies were targeted in okra crops, while aphids were targeted in potato crops. The efficacy of the biopesticides was assessed based on pest control and crop health parameters.

Results: The study revealed that the combined formulation of A. Sativum and asafoetida exhibited the highest efficacy in controlling whiteflies in okra crops and aphids in potato crops. This formulation demonstrated superior pest control performance compared to individual A. Sativum or asafoetida extracts.

Conclusion: Biopesticides derived from the combination of A. Sativum and asafoetida hold significant potential for managing whiteflies in okra crops and aphids in potato crops. Further research should be conducted to identify and evaluate additional active compounds that can serve as potential candidates for biopesticide development. This approach will help maintain the environmentally friendly nature of biopesticides, making them a preferable choice over synthetic alternatives for pest control in agricultural systems.