Non–pesticidal management of okra shoot and fruit borer (Earias vittella Fab.) by changing dates of sowing

Abstract

The shoot and fruit borer, Earias vittella Fab. (Lepidoptera : Noctuidae ) is an important insect pest of okra [Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench ]. The larva of Earias vittella bores the growing shoot of okra plant prior to fruit formation resulting in drying of shoot. On availability of fruit larva starts feeding to the okra fruit and thus causes direct yield loss. The present study focused on management of pest without chemical to avoid the problem of health hazard, pest outbreak and resurgence.