MANAGEMENT OF Clavigralla tomentosicollis (HEMIPTERA: COREIDAE) AND Megalurothrips spp (THYSANOPTERA:TRIPIDAE) ON PIGEON PEA (Cajanus cajan (L.) Millspaugh) WITH Petiveria alliacea

Abstract

Pest resistance, non-target toxicity and environmental implications are major issues with the use of synthetic pesticides. However, the need for alternative and sustainable insect pest control is very germane. This study evaluated the potential of Petiveria alliacea, a botanical known for its insecticidal properties, in the control of a pod sucking bug (Clavigralla tomentosicollis) and flower thrips (Megallurotrips spp) that are major yield-limiting pests of pigeon pea. Field trials were conducted over two cropping seasons 2019 and 2020 at the Institute of Agricultural Research and Training, Ibadan. Aqueous Extract ofPetiveria alliacea obtained by mixing 100 g Petiveria alliacea powder with 10 L of water and Black Soap solution as surfactant was applied fortnightly at 90, 105, 120 and 135 days after sowing as 1, 2, 3 and 4 applications. A randomised complete block design with three replicates assessed their efficacy on pest suppression, pod damage and seed yield. Phytochemical screening of P. alliacea was also conducted. Four applications of P. alliacea with black soap significantly reduced pest populations, minimised pod damage (1.4%) and produced the highest seed weight (585 kg/ha). Control plots recorded the highest pest incidence and lowest yields. Phytochemicals such as saponins, flavonoids and alkaloids were confirmed in the plant extract. Petiveria alliacea extract with black soap could be applied at least three to four times during flowering and pod formation for effective pest management. Its use is recommended as a potential low-cost, eco-friendly solution for farmers.