Effect of Argel (Solenostemma argel) and Usher(Calotropis procera) on date palm green pit scale insect (Asterolicanium phoenicis (Homoptera: Asterolicaniidae)

Abstract

This study was undertaken at Elghaba Agricultural Scheme, Eldabba locality, Northern State to evaluate the effectiveness of the extracts of two plants argel and usher against the green date palm pit scale insect (Asterolicanium phoenicis) and their effect on the productivity. The experiments were carried out in 4 villages in the area (Arab Narti, Wad- diab, Gharab Dongola and Elkinduwa people's scheme). Argel and usher powder were used by three methods of soil leaf powder application (dose 100 gm/palm), spray of leaves water extract (dose 100 gm/palm) and soil + spray of leaves water extract (dose 100gm soil + 100 spray/ palm). Actara 25 W.G Thimethoxam (Neonicotinoid group) (dose 20gm/palm) was used as recommended and for comparison. To evaluate the effects of the plant extract after each treatment, 8 leaflets were chosen randomly from the 4 directions from each tree at biweekly intervals. From these 4 leaflets were chosen and each one was inspected under a binocular microscope to calculate the adult and immature mortality in an area of 1 cm2. The results showed that, the application of argel and usher in all treatments caused higher percent mortality of both adult females and immature stages compared to untreated control up to the 8 th week after application. Also all treatments increased the yield compared to the untreated control. According to the results of the present study, the soil argel application at 100gm/tree at 6 week intervals should be recommended as an effective treatment to control the green date palm pit scale insect.