Knowledge, practices and perceptions of farmers on whitefly (Bemisia tabaci) management in okra cultivation in South Gujarat

Abstract

The study assessed farmers' knowledge, practices and perceptions regarding whitefly, Bemisia tabaci management in okra cultivation in Navsari, Surat and Bharuch district during 2023. From each of the three selected districts, 20 okra-growing farmers were randomly selected and resulting in a total sample size of 60 respondents. The findings revealed about 55.00 per cent cultivated okra on less than 1 ha, with summer and monsoon being the major preferred seasons. Almost all respondents could identify major okra pests, including whitefly; however, considerable gaps existed regarding its damaging stage and economic threshold level (ETL). Chemical control was the predominant management practice adopted by 83.33 per cent of respondent. Most farmers relied on approximate pesticide doses and applied sprays 4–6 times at intervals of 4–6 days. Although farmers were aware of pesticide disposal and environmental effects, inadequate use of personal protective measures was observed. The study highlights the need for farmer-oriented training on ETL-based pest management, correct pesticide dosage, safe handling and integrated pest management practices for sustainable and safer whitefly management in okra.