Natural pesticides

The widespread attack of the mite Eriphyes guerreronis is threatening coconut plantations in Tamil Nadu and Kerala. However, according to researchers, trees raised with organic manure or biopesticides have not been affected by the mites. The scientific community has propagated foliar spraying and root feeding of pesticides, but it has failed to eradicate the mite. Field trials conducted in a few places have demonstrated that the mite attack can be contained by spraying a mixture of nimbedidine, karanja oil and garlic extract dissolved in water. Experts also recommend the use of neem oil-based pesticides ( Nandini Chemical Journal , Vol 7, No 4).