Field evaluation of botanical insecticides for the management of Helicoverpa armigera

Traditional chemical insecticides have been effective against cotton bollworm Helicoverpa armigera, but have raised concerns over environmental impact and resistance development. This explores the application of botanical insecticides, particularly neem and pyrethrin formulations, as alternatives to chemicals in the management of H. armigera. The use of botanical insecticides is gaining importance due to their lower toxicity to non-target organisms and reduced environmental footprint. Field trials conducted over multiple growing seasons showed that neem-based insecticides effectively reduced larval populations by up to 65.7%, while pyrethrin formulations achieved a 60% reduction. Additionally, both treatments resulted in significant improvements in crop yields and minimized feeding damage, with neem-based products increasing yields by approximately 31.6%. Importantly, botanical insecticides exhibited minimal impact on beneficial insect populations compared to synthetic alternatives. The findings underscore the viability of botanical insecticides as effective tools for managing H. armigera while promoting sustainable agricultural practices. The integration of these eco-friendly products into pest management strategies not only enhances crop protection but also contributes to the preservation of beneficial insects, highlighting their importance in integrated pest management (IPM) programs.