Field-Based Assessment of Bio-rational and Integrated Management of Helicoverpa armigera in Tomato

Abstract

A field experiment was conducted at Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Moga, during the Rabi season to assess the efficacy of biopesticides, botanicals, and integrated pest management (IPM) strategies against Helicoverpa armigera on tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.). Seven treatments, including chemical insecticides (Coragen, Spinosad, Fame), biological agents (Bacillus thuringiensis), a homemade neem extract, and an IPM module (combining biopesticides with pheromone traps), were evaluated under field conditions. Results revealed that Coragen @ 0.5 ml/L was the most effective treatment, reducing larval populations by over 95% at 14 days after the second spray. Spinosad and Fame followed closely with high efficacy. Biopesticides and botanicals showed moderate to low effectiveness when used alone. The integrated IPM module exhibited promising but inconsistent performance. The findings underscore the potential of integrating chemical and biological tools in a rotation strategy for sustainable management of H. armigera in tomato cultivation.