I'm enthusiastic about utilizing precision agriculture to enhance yields while minimizing resource impact with an eye toward innovation. My desire to collaborate with farmers and use data-driven tactics to enhance efficiency and sustainability in crop protection is fuelled by my academic path.
Abstract
The overreliance and the use of broad-spectrum synthetic insecticides have been used in the management of pests affecting French beans has been linked to the detrimental effects on non-target organisms and human health. This has led to a growing interest in alternative pest management methods, such as the use of plant extracts which have minimal effects on beneficial insects and are safer for the environment. This study evaluated the efficacy of three homemade plant extracts namely, fermented plant extract from Tagetes minuta, Lantana camara, Capsicum frutescens and Allium sativum (FPE), unfermented plant extract from Tagetes minuta, Lantana camara, Capsicum frutescens and Allium sativum (UPE) and unfermented plant extract from Tagetes minuta, Lantana camara, Capsicum frutescens, Allium sativum combined Azadirachta indica (UPE + N), against bean flower thrips and black bean aphids. In addition, phytochemical analysis through qualitative and the use of LC-MS was car carried out to determine the bioactive compounds in the associated with insecticidal activities. The results revealed varied efficacies of different plant extracts against bean flower thrip and black bean aphids. The plant extracts showed varied profiles of bioactive compounds which could have influenced their effectiveness against bean flower thrips and black bean aphid. The study showed the potential of using unfermented plant extract from Tagetes minuta, Lantana camara, Capsicum frutescens, Allium sativum combined Azadirachta indica (UPE + N), in the management of French beans pests at farm level.
Research Supervisors
Prof. James Wanjoi Muthomi Dr. Dora Kilalo Dr. Edward Karanja
