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Management of Diamond Back Moth (DBM) and Aphids in cabbage using Neem Seed Powder Pellets (NSPP)

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Diamond Back Moth (DBM) Plutella xylostella  and aphid Brevicoryne brassicae are the two important pests of cabbage . Neem seed powder extract is effective for the management of several insect pests of vegetable crops including these pests.  The main limitation for using neem seed powder is cumbersome and time-consuming process of its preparation. The resulting extract is highly unstable and needs to be utilized in a very short period. Hence, it was contemplated to develop ready to use neem seed powder pellet so that these impediments can be overcome. Talc based Neem seed powder pellets (NSPP) were prepared using dried whole neem powder. Suitable polymer, photo-protecting agents, preservatives and stabilizers were also added to enhance the efficacy of the product.  The raw material components are easily available in local market.  New formulation is a potential product to manage major insect pests of cabbage viz., diamond back moth (DBM) and aphids. The cumulative DBM count and mean aphid/plant was significantly lower in neem seed powder pellet (30 g/litre) treated plots compared to untreated control. The pellet can be stored without deterioration of quality   and fungal contamination for six months. By using this technology drudgery of preparation of neem seed kernel extract and problem of insecticide residue in the final produce can be overcome.

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