Integrated Pest Management Strategies for Improving Growth and Flower Yield of Hibiscus rosa-sinensis L.

Abstract

An appropriate Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategy is required to manage the insect pest Hibiscus rosa sinensis without negatively impacting the environment because of pesticide residues in food, soil, water and the environment; the emergence of pesticide resistance; the resurgence of sucking pests; the outbreak of minor pests; and the widespread killing of non-target organisms like predators, parasitoids and pollinators. A field experiment was conducted during the 2023–2024 season to evaluate the effectiveness of integrated pest management (IPM) modules in enhancing vegetative growth and flower yield of hibiscus (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis L.) using a randomized block design. Foliar spraying of botanicals and insecticides was done on 3rd day and 7th day by using battery operated knapsack sprayer.  Flowers buds were harvested and from two tagged plants and counted in different treatments. This observation was recorded after spraying on every after spraying. The results revealed the superiority of the imidacloprid treatment; however, one IPM module based on neem oil and citrus oil achieved statistically comparable results, indicating the potential of eco-friendly alternatives for incorporation into integrated pest management programs. The observed improvement in vegetative growth under IPM modules may be attributed to a substantial reduction in pest infestation levels, which in turn enhances photosynthetic efficiency, minimizes assimilate loss due to pest feeding, and promotes more effective allocation of photosynthates toward vegetative growth and flower bud formation. Based on these findings, the adoption of eco-friendly IPM strategies can reduce reliance on chemical insecticides while maintaining satisfactory vegetative growth and flower production.