Management of Chilli (Capsicum annuum L.) Thrips and Mites Using Organics

Abstract

Field experiments were conducted during kharif 2005, to study the effect of organic amendments on the activity of chilli (c.v Byadagi) thrips and mites. In the nursery, seedlings receiving vermicompost (500 g/m2) and neem cake (100 g/m2) resulted in higher seedling vigour index, comparable to the standard check. Subsequently these seedlings were transplanted in the main field amended with vermicompost (2.5 t/ha), neem cake (0.5 t/ha), combined application of vermicompost and neem cake at half dosages and standard check receiving inorganic fertilizers and plant protection. Significantly less population of thrips, mites and leaf curl index were observed in the crop that received vermicompost (2.5 t/ha) or neem cake (0.5 t/ha) (main plot treatments) followed by four sprays of NSKE 5% and neemazal 10,000 ppm at 2, 5, 7 and 11 weeks after transplanting alternatively. In main plots, crop receiving either vermicompost or neem cake registered significantly higher yield compared to seedlings that received inorganic fertilizers.