Date:02/01/2004 URL: http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/2004/01/02/stories/2004010201791700.htm

Back Integrated pest management in Theni

Our Correspondent

Madurai , Jan. 1

THE Department of Agriculture has set up eight integrated pest management demonstration fields in Theni district to educate farmers on natural pest control measures and bring down the use of pesticides.

The inter-cropping technique, for one, helps to attract insects detrimental to the main crop and provide need-based plant protection to the main crop. Spraying of Panchakavyam is said to help strengthen the crop besides reducing costs and use of chemical pesticides Phetromone trap is a method of attracting a female moth to reduce reproduction. Mutka curd, a mixture of neem leaves, curd and water, is said to act both as a best natural pest repellent and tonic for plant growth.