Integrated pest management in Brinjal

Abstract

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) represents a holistic approach to managing pests in brinjal (Solanum melongena) cultivation, combining cultural, biological, mechanical, and chemical strategies to minimize the reliance on synthetic pesticides. This research paper explores the effectiveness of IPM practices in controlling major pests affecting brinjal, including the shoot and fruit borer (Leucinodes orbonalis), aphids, and mites. Field trials were conducted to evaluate the impact of various IPM components, such as the use of pheromone traps, neem-based biopesticides, and the introduction of natural predators, on pest populations and crop yield.The results demonstrate that IPM practices significantly reduced pest infestations and enhanced brinjal productivity compared to conventional pest control methods. Moreover, the economic analysis revealed that adopting IPM not only lowered production costs by reducing pesticide usage but also improved environmental sustainability by minimizing chemical residues in the soil and water. This study underscores the importance of promoting IPM in brinjal cultivation as a viable strategy for sustainable agriculture, offering insights into the challenges and opportunities associated with its broader adoption by farmers.