Survey on Pesticide use and usage Pattern in Papaya Crop cultivated in Tamil Nadu

Author: Jayashree E., Suganthi A., Bhuvaneswari K., Renukadevi P. and Kavitha C.

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Abstract

A survey was conducted to assess the farmer’s knowledge on pest, pesticide use and usage pattern in three major growing districts of Tamil Nadu during the year 2022-2023. Papaya mealybug, whitefly, fruit fly, ash weevil, aphids, scales, grasshoppers were found to infest papaya, among which papaya mealybug caused more damage (90%). It was observed that most of the farmers use pesticide mixtures for the pest management. The most used pesticide was Spirotetramat 11.01% + Imidacloprid 11.01% w/w SC, followed by Acephate 50% + Imidacloprid 7.5% SP, Azoxystrobin 11% + Tebuconazole 18.3% SC and Azoxystrobin 8.3% + Mancozeb 66.7% WDG. Only 23.33 % of farmers spray pesticides at recommended dose. The results revealed that majority of farmers (63.33%) consult pesticide retailers for the selection of pesticides. Farmers were not aware of safe waiting period before harvest, attention towards label, safety measures while spraying pesticide in field. The pesticides are applied at fortnight intervals in papaya ecosystem.

Keywords

Papaya, Papaya mealybug, Pesticide use

Conclusion

Papaya cultivation is gaining importance due to its high nutritive value and affordable price for consumption; therefore, we must ensure the appropriate pesticide usage to avoid residues in papaya fruits. Farmers' knowledge is changing, as seen by the use of a stick for mixing, the use of measuring cups, and the avoidance of recycling pesticide containers for home use. However, farmer’s awareness on the usage of recommended pesticides, following pre-harvest intervals, label claims, and safety measures during spray operations was lacking. In order to grow pesticide residue-free papaya fruit, farmers must be educated about the importance of following regular pre-harvest intervals, colour, and symbols on pesticide containers, identifying active ingredients, ration use, and safe handling of pesticides. Application of pesticides can be reduced by adopting the Integrated Pest Management practices in papaya.

References

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How to cite this article

Jayashree E., Suganthi A., Bhuvaneswari K., Renukadevi P. and Kavitha C. (2023). Survey on Pesticide use and usage Pattern in Papaya Crop cultivated in Tamil Nadu. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 54-60.