On‐farm evaluation of control strategies for insect pests in cowpea with emphasis on flower thrips,<i>Megalurothrips sjostedti</i>Trybom (Thysanoptera: Thripidae)

Abstract

Abstract A study to evaluate control strategies for insect pests in cowpea with emphasis on flower thrips, Megalurothrips sjostedti Trybom, was carried out on farms in Dzwafu and Minjibirr villages in Nigeria. Two insecticides, Sherpa Plus and Cymbush Super ED, applied at different cowpea growth stages, were tested. Insect numbers were higher and yields lower in Dzwafu than Minjibirr. Both insecticides were effective and profitable, giving increased yields and marginal returns. Sherpa Plus gave slightly better insect pest control. Applying the insecticides at flowering gave better thrip control and grain yields than application at flower bud formation. Grain yields and profit margins increased when insecticides were applied at both growth stages. However, insecticidal application decreased haulm yields. Spraying at flowering caused the greatest reduction. insect pest control for cowpea grain production thus is antagonistic to haulm production for fodder, which may be the primary requirement in some areas. Therefore, techniques for managing cowpea pests should take farmers’ requirements into account.