Evaluation of aqueous and powder preparations of Argel (Solenostemma argel Del. Hyne.) And Usher (Calotropis procera Ait.) against the Green Pit Scale Insect (Asterolicanium phoenicis Rao.) (Homoptera: Asterolicaniidae) infesting date palm

Abstract

A field study was carried out at Alghaba Agricultural Scheme, Northern State, Sudan, to investigate the effects of the powder of argel (Solenostemma argel Del.Hyne.) and usher (Calotropis procera Ait.) on immature stages of the green pit scale insect (Asterolicanium phoenicis Rao.). Each plant powder was applied at three dosage rates (1)100 g. powder/ tree as soil dressing, (2)100 g. powder /10 Liter tap water/ tree as spray and (3)100 g. powder as a soil dressing + 100 g. powder /10 Liter tap water for spraying/ tree. The synthetic insecticide Actara 25 W.G. Thimethoxam (Neonicotinoid) was used as a standard insecticide. The results showed that, the plant preparation treatments were effective against the immature stages of the green pit scale insect, and their effectiveness extended for 8-10 weeks after application. Also, most of the plant treatments were comparable to those of Actara in efficiency. However, the cost of the dose / plant (0.0-0.5 SDG) was far less than that of Actara (12.5 SDG). According to the results of this study, Argel and Usher soil treatment (100gm powder / tree) should be recommended as an effective treatment to control the immature stages of the green pit scale insect.