Estimation of avoidable losses due to pests of grapevine*

Estimation of avoidable losses in grapevine due to flea beetle, thrips and grain caterpillar was studied by imposing the spray schedule in comparison with farmer's practice. The maximum protection treatment (T1) consisting of 12 sprayings from 3 DAP (Days After Pruning (October) to 108 DAP on Thompson Seedless was established to be most effective in reducing the damage caused by flea beetle, thrips and grain caterpillar with a fruit yield of 25553 kg/ha and high cost benefit ratio (1:16.80). Whereas the farmer's practice (T2), where more sprayings were imposed, recorded 21953 kg/ha fruit yield and cost benefit ratio of 1:10.36. The insecticide residues at harvest were below detectable level in T1, hence the maximum protection (T1) spray schedule can be suggested to farmers.