Field evaluation of native Bacillus thuringiensis strains against Helicoverpa armigera (Hubner) in field bean (Lablab purpureus)

A field experiment was conducted in a Randomized Block Design to evaluate 28 native isolates of B.t. along with a reference strain HD1 and untreated control against Helicoverpa armigera in Field bean. Solid and liquid formulations of native B.t strains were tested against H. armigera and it was found that larval population and per cent pod damage were significantly less in solid formulation compared to liquid formulation. Field bean pod yield (kg/ha) was more in solid formulation compared to liquid formulation. B.t strain 281 resulted in minimum larval population and pod damage by H. armigera and maximum healthy green pod yield.