Botanical Pesticide Applications for Sustainable Pest Management in Shallot-Based Cropping Systems

2026-02-26T03:56:51+00:00

Reducing dependency on synthetic pesticides is a central challenge in advancing sustainable horticultural production systems. This study evaluated the effectiveness of Lantana camara leaf extract as a botanical pesticide for managing Spodoptera exigua in shallot-based cropping systems under field conditions. A randomized complete block design was applied with four extract concentrations, and observations included pest infestation intensity, leaf damage progression, plant vigor, yield performance, and phytotoxicity. The results showed a clear dose-dependent reduction in infestation intensity, with the highest concentration achieving the greatest suppression, while the moderate concentration provided the optimal balance between pest control and crop performance. Treated plots exhibited delayed larval development, improved plant vigor, and higher yield compared to the untreated control. Mild phytotoxic effects were observed only at the highest concentration, indicating the importance of dosage optimization. These findings demonstrate that plant-derived extracts can effectively reduce pest pressure while maintaining crop productivity. The study highlights the potential of botanical pesticide applications as a component of sustainable pest management strategies within shallot-based cropping systems, supporting reduced chemical reliance and enhanced agroecosystem resilience.

Calcium and Phosphorus Dynamics in Trichoderma-Fermented Napier grass–Banana Peel Blends

2026-04-14T06:24:22+00:00

Optimizing nutrient utilization from forage and residue combinations is crucial for advancing sustainable ruminant feeding systems. This study evaluated the dynamics of calcium (Ca) and phosphorus (P) in a mixture of Napier grass (Pennisetum purpureum) and banana peel (Musa acuminata × balbisiana) fermented by Trichoderma at various addition levels. A completely randomized design with four treatments was applied, and mineral concentrations were determined using standard laboratory procedures. Results showed a consistent increase in Ca content with higher banana peel additions, while P levels decreased, indicating a differential mineral response to fermentation. Relative changes showed an enrichment of Ca up to 24.05% and a decrease in P concentration, reflecting fermentation-mediated transformation of the substrate matrix. The Ca:P ratio increased from 1.39 to 1.96 across treatments, remaining within the acceptable nutritional range but approaching Ca-dominant conditions at higher addition levels. These findings indicate that microbial fermentation not only improves feed utilization but also re-establishes the mineral balance in the forage-residue system. Moderate inclusion levels provide a more balanced mineral profile, highlighting the importance of optimizing feed composition. Overall, integrating agro-industrial residues through fermentation offers a viable strategy to improve nutritional efficiency and support sustainable livestock production.

Integrated and Sustainable Agriculture

Botanical Pesticide Applications for Sustainable Pest Management in Shallot-Based Cropping Systems

Calcium and Phosphorus Dynamics in Trichoderma-Fermented Napier grass–Banana Peel Blends