Tomato Growers' Perception of Parasitic Wilt Diseases and the Impact of Cultural Practices on the Management of these Diseases in Côte d'Ivoire

Abstract

Aims: Analyze cultivation practices, grower’s perception of parasitic wilt diseases to identify the limitations of current approaches and proposing sustainable agroecological alternatives. Study Design:  Tomatoes are one of the most important vegetable crops in Côte d'Ivoire and are widely consumed in daily meals. However, its production faces major constraints, notably parasitic wilt diseases, which limit its ability to meet the growing demand for this commodity. Place and Duration of Study: Sample: the main tomato production zones, covering five agro-ecological zones (AEZs) in Côte d'Ivoire, between February and August 2024. Methodology: A semi-structured questionnaire survey was carried out among 150 growers in the main tomato-growing areas of Côte d'Ivoire. The information gathered included farmers' socio-economic characteristics, crop practices, and perceptions related to parasitic wilt. These data were supplemented by field observations and then subjected to descriptive analysis and Hierarchical Ascending Classification (HAC) using R 4.4.1, in order to characterize production systems. Results: The results revealed that 81.51% of growers, mostly men (p˂ 0,001), recognized tomato wilt through symptoms such as thinning of the crown. Among them, 38.66% attributed its appearance to the practice of monoculture. Typological analysis enabled us to group production systems into four distinct categories. Although agroecological practices such as crop rotation and organic fertilization are crucial, they remain little, if at all, adopted by growers. Furthermore, the heavy reliance on chemical fertilizers and pesticides, combined with the lack of recourse to biological control, represents a major challenge for a transition to sustainable agroecological systems. Conclusion: This study highlights the need for increased awareness among growers to recognize parasitic wilt and for technical support to promote sustainable practices, including the use of biocontrol agents, to improve productivity while preserving agriculture.