Insect pests of tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) and their management in Kavre district, Nepal

Abstract

Insect pests of tomato and their management practices were explored in three VDCs (Panchkhal, Nala and Mahadevsthan) of Kavre District from January to April 2011. The data were collected by direct observation and also by using semi-structured questionnaires. Altogether 48 tomato farms were observed during the study that included 16 farms in each VDC. The study revealed White fly (Bemisia tabaci), Aphid (Aphis gossypii), Tomato fruit worm (Helicoverpa armigera) and White grub as the insect pests of tomato. Aphid (Aphis gossypii) and Tomato fruit worm (Helicoverpa armigera) were recorded as the most problematic insects during winter and summer respectively. Farmers were found to be relied on pesticides from bedding of plant till harvesting to control pests. Commonly used pesticides include Endosulfan, Dimethoate, Cypermethrin, Chloropyrifos, Methyl parathion, Methomyl and Thiametoxan. Farmers had positive thoughts towards the pesticide use despite their familiarity on ill-effects of pesticides. Personal safety measures during application of pesticides have not been followed. Scanty knowledge, labor intensiveness and lack of coordination between the farmers were the major factors which prevented the adoption of eco-friendly alternative pest management methods.