Neem is a very popular tree, yielding a number of insecticides derived from its leaves, bark and seeds. Botanical insecticides are the most cost effective and environmentally safe inputs in integrated pest management (IPM) strategies. There are about 3000 plants and trees with insecticidal and repellant properties in the world, and India is home to about 70% of this floral wealth, according to Dr. P. Narayanasamy, Professor of Entomology at the College of Agriculture, Annamalai University, Chidambaram, Tamil Nadu. The neem seed kernel extracts, neem oil, extracts from the leaves and barks have all been used since ancient times to keep scores of insect pests at bay. Neem oil and extracts are also extensively used in ayurvedic medicine and veterinary medicine. A number of commercial neem-based insecticides are now available and they have displaced several toxic chemical insecticides. Neem derivatives are now extensively used in integrated pest management strategies. The use of neem leaves and powdered kernels in managing the pests of stored products and grains is also well known. Powdered neem cake is widely used in ecological farms as a sound soil amendment to act as a source of nutrients and also an insecticide to manage the soil-borne pests and pathogens. Agricultural scientists have found that neem products can be used to effectively manage over 120 different insect species that attack crops and stored products. Thus neem retains its unique place among the plant kingdom as the most popular botanical insecticide and repellant used in agriculture of the past and present. Turmeric, garlic, Vitex negundo, glyricidia, castor, Aristolochia, ginger, Agave Americana, custard apple, Datura, Calotropis, Ipomoea and coriander are some of the other widely used botanicals to control and repel crop pests. A number of plants are also used as trap crops and as repellants. Simple extracts from these plants (either from the leaves, barks or seeds) are used as insecticides and repellants. Farmers should pay particular attention while using botanical insecticides for effective management of the crop pests. They should use freshly prepared formulations. (Courtesy-The Hindu) |
|