Management of fruit fly (Bactrocera spp.) in cucumber (Cucumis sativus Linn.) grown organically

Abstract

Fruit flies (Bactrocera spp.) are the key pests of our potential vegetable and fruit crops. Literally, wide organic options are available but their evaluation studies are scanty and hence study on comparative evaluation of 10 organic formulations and a synthetic insecticide against fruit fly in organically grown cucumber during the years 2011 and 2012 were conducted at certified Model Organic Farm, CSK HPKV, Palampur. The lowest fruit infestation of 7.69 and 9.09% was registered in treatment with cypermethrin 25EC @ 0.5ml/l followed by treatment with neem oil (Nimbecidene) 5ml/l as 12.50 and 13.58% during both respective years of study. Similar trend of fruit yield was observed using cypermethrin 25EC gave highest fruit yield 191.48 and 183.33 q/ha followed by neem oil (Nimbecidene) as 189.01 and 181.48 q/ha during both years of study. However, both these formulations were significantly at par but under organic conditions four sprays of neem oil formulation coinciding with infestation at 10 day interval can be effectively used to manage this pest.