Economics of Neem (Azadirachta indica A. Juss) Seed oil for the Management of Cylas puncticollis (Boheman) (Coleoptera: Brentidae) infesting Sweetpotato in Nigeria
DOI:3618/NJE/2102/92.0170
EHISIANYA, C. N., OGBONNA, M. C., LALE, N. E. S. and ‘UMEOZOR, O. C.
ABSTRACT: The cost benefits of pre- and post (after one month) planting application of neem seed oil (NSO) on sweetpotato during late season production (August to February in 2009 and 2010) for the management of the sweetpotato weevil, Cylas puncticollis (Bohoman) was determined using the complete costing analysis. Root yield and percentage infestation was determined by ANOVA and significant means separated using SNK test at 5 % probability. The results indicated that 30 mls (4 l/ha) NSO applied pre- and post-planting (Pr2Pt2) had the highest comparative advantage as the income was 457 % (N1,130,800.50) and provided 22.70 % control of C. puncticollis infestation. However, pest control of 33.4 % was obtained when 50 ml (6 l/ha) of NSO was applied pre- and post-planting (Pr3Pt3) and it significantly suppressed root infestation from 64.22 % (Pr0Pt0)to 42.75 %. The sweetpotato pest management tactics developed in this study was discussed.
Keywords: Economics, Neem seed oil, Management, Cylas puncticollis, Sweetpotato