Alternatives to Synthetic Chemical Insecticides for Use in Crucifer Crops

Abstract

ABSTRACT Current public concern about the possible adverse effects of agricultural chemicals on health and the environment has generated interest in reducing chemical inputs in vegetable growing. Crucifers are important vegetable crops in Australia and are subjected to attack by lepidopterous pests especially diamondback moth (Plutella xylostella (L.)) and cabbage white butterfly (Pieris rapae (L.)). Control options for cabbage pests reviewed here include use of natural insecticides (mainly plant-based), physical barriers, biological controi, insect sterilization, intercropping, companion planting and host plant resistance. Successful reduced chemical insect control should concentrate on combining several of these options in complete pest management systems.