Pesticide application and the residu on Citrulus vulgaris (Schard)

Abstract

Residues of pesticides can affect the ecological system and human health. The aim of this study identify the behavior of the watermelon`s [Citrullus vulgaris (Schard)] farmers in applicating the pesticides. There are five principles in applying pesticides (5R): Right target of pest, the right target of the plant, right dose, right application timing or usage, right method of application (the right form of application and the use of Personal Protective Equipment [PPE]). It was a descriptive observational study in C. vulgaris, farmer group to identify the application pesticides, and analysis the residue of pesticides. Data were collected by interviews and observations. The Residues of pesticides in C. vulgaris, Schard and in the soil were analyzed by HPLC with Triple Quadrupole Tandem Mass Spectrometry detector (LC-MS/MS) using single point matrix based calibration at RL, in the angler bioChemlaboratory. Descriptive observational study. In this study, the result showed there were 13 pesticides used by farmers including insecticides and fungicides. All respondents did the right target of pest, however, they were not doing on the right target of plant, right dose, right application timing or usage, the right method of application (the right form of application and the use of PPE). Conclusion respondents that did not apply the 5R Principles. Pesticides residues, however, is still not detected on the soil (< 0.025 mg kg-1) and watermelons (< 0.01 mg kg-1). Therefore, it is still safe for agriculture and consumption.