Efficacy of Neem Tree Extract on Cabbage Aphids' Control in the Field

Neem tree extracts from root, bark and leaves have generally been used in the control of pests. The extracts' efficacy in the control of aphids in cabbages under smallholder farming systems formed the subject of the study. The dose of the admixture of the extract that effectively controlled aphids was determined through experimental methods that involved harvesting and crashing 0.110-4 of Neem tree parts. The extract was fermented for 18-48hours.Treatment tests solutions varied were 20mL, 30mL and 40mL of the extract respectively in 10litres of water and applied to cabbage in the field at intervals of once a week, twice a week and once in 2 weeks in a triplicated completely Randomized Block Design. The treated plants were observed for average number of live aphids, number of dead aphids, degree of leaf perforation, leaf curls, stunting, and finally the yield of the cabbage visa vis treatments. Aphid counts at the concentration of 30mL in 10L of water were significantly lower for live aphids and higher for dead aphids (P<0.05).