The economics of insecticides and botanicals used against fruit borer (Helicoverpa armigera Hubner) on tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.)

A field experiment entitled “The Economics of Insecticides and Botanicals Used Against Fruit Borer (Helicoverpa armigera) on Tomato During Rabi Season, 2023-24” was conducted at the Agritech Farm, Malwa Region, Indore (M.P.), during Rabi 2023-24. The study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness and economics of various insecticides and botanicals in managing fruit borer infestation in tomato crops. Ten treatments including synthetic insecticides, bio-pesticides, and botanicals were tested in a randomized block design with three replications. The results revealed that Chlorantraniliprole 18.5% SC @ 150 ml/ha recorded the highest yield and net return (₹ 69,920/ha) with an incremental cost-benefit ratio (ICBR) of 1:14.27, followed by Indoxacarb 14.5 SC and Flubendiamide 20 WG. The lowest net return (₹ 14,880/ha) and C:B ratio (1:3.86) were obtained from the NSKE 5% treatment. Findings were in agreement with earlier reports by Kushal and Kumar (2023), Bhawani and Kumar (2022), and others. The study concluded that Chlorantraniliprole 18.5% SC is the most effective and economically viable option for the management of H. armigera in tomato under Malwa agro-climatic conditions.