Agricultural Journal
ISSN: Online 1994-4616ISSN: Print 1816-9155
Abstract
The pomegranate fruit borer (Virachola isocrates) is one of the most destructive pests of pomegranate, causing severe yield losses in major production areas. A field and laboratory experiment was conducted in Swat District during the 2024 growing season to evaluate the efficacy of chemical and botanical interventions against this pest. The study employed a randomized complete block design with three replications on 24 pomegranate trees (cv. Kandahari Anar). Four chemical insecticides (lambda‐cyhalothrin, cypermethrin, indoxacarb, and bifenthrin), three botanical extracts (10% aqueous neem, water pepper, and eucalyptus), and a water‐spray control were tested. Results revealed that chemical treatments, particularly lambda‐cyhalothrin and cypermethrin, achieved the lowest fruit infestation (3.7‐4.5%), complete larval mortality (100%), and the highest yields (15‐16 t/ha). Botanicals provided moderate suppression, with neem and water pepper reducing infestation to 7‐8% and achieving up to 81% larval mortality, significantly outperforming the control (15.6% infestation, 7.2 t/ha, 0% mortality). These findings suggest that while chemical insecticides remain the most effective option for rapid control, botanical extracts hold promise as eco‐friendly alternatives and should be integrated into a sustainable pest management framework.
How to cite this article:
Muhammad Ejaz, Madieha Ambreen and Fawad Khan. Integrated Management of Pomegranate Fruit
Borer (Virachola Isocrates) Through Chemical and
Botanical Intervention.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.36478/makaj.2025.11.14
URL: https://www.makhillpublications.co/view-article/1816-9155/makaj.2025.11.14