Distribution of spider mite (Tetranychus urticae Koch) on rose plant (Rosa chinensis Lin.) and its environmentally sound control using plant extract

Abstract

Rose (Rosa chinensis L.) is very useful flower grown in everywhere of India as well as world. In Coochbehar, West Bengal, India mites causes heavy damage and limits its production. The plant is damaged by many pests of which mite, Tetranychus urticae. (Tetranychidae: Acarina) is most harmful. Higher population of mites is found on the upper canopy of the plant (52.75%). There were seven treatments in the experiment. Avermectin known as microbial toxin resulted in the best control of mite (88.42% mortality), closely followed by chemical insecticide, fenazaquin (82.25% mortality) and mixed formulation of botanical pesticide, azadirachtin known as botanical insecticide with phyto extract, Spilenthes (72.37% mortality). It is found from overall assessment that avermectin and mixture of azadirachtin with botanical extraction gave moderate to higher mite mortality (more than 65% mortality). Due to low toxicity to natural enemies and on human health microbial toxin, botanical pesticides, botanical extracts may be used in future Integrated Pest Management with organic farming in flower production. Results of Azadirachtinis not higherwhen used individually but produce higher mortality by using with botanical extracts. The general farmers may adopt this practice for their safe flower production.