The Potentials of Balanite as Pesticide on Vegetable Pest

The field trial evaluated the effects of botanicals and spray regimes on the flea beetle, Podagrica uniformis (Jac.) of Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench) in 2012 and 2013 at Askira (latitude 10° 39'E; longitude 12° 65'N), in Southern part of Borno State, Northern Guinea Savannah of Nigeria. The aim was to identify best botanical extract and spray regime for the control of okra flea beetle, P. uniformis (Jac.) and optimum fruit yield of okra. Split-plot design was employed with six insecticidal treatments (Lamda-Cyhalothrin 25% EC (Karate), Neem leaves extract, Balanite leaves extract, Balanite bark extract, Balanite fruits extract and Balanite roots extract); while four spray regimes (three-sprays, two-sprays, one-spray weekly and untreated check) were tested in the sub-plot. Results of the study consistently indicated significant (p<0.05) differences in the effects of insecticidal treatments and spray regimes on flea beetle population, number of infested leaves, percentage weight of damaged fruit and fruit yield in both years of the study.