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Online ISSN : 2349-8080 Issues : 12 per year Publisher : Excellent Publishers Email : editorinchiefijcrbp@gmail.com |
Cabbage (Brassica oleracea), is an important vegetable crop cultivated and consumed in most parts of the world due to its rich nutritional, health and economic values. Cameroon's agricultural sector significantly depends on cabbage cultivation for food security and economic sustainability. Cabbage crops are often affected by pests that can significantly reduce both yield and quality. This study aimed at investigating the efficacy of different concentrations of neem (Azadirachta indica) leaf extract as a biological control strategy against cabbage pests in Bambili, Northwest region of Cameroon. Cabbage seeds were nursed in seedling trays and transplanted after four weeks of planting to the research plot of the University of Bamenda. Three neem leaf extract concentrations of 30g/5L, 60g/5L, and 90g/5L were prepared and sprayed on cabbage plants from the first to the fifth week after transplanting. Results obtained revealed that insect pests are greatest threats to cabbage growth. Plutella xylostella, Hellula rogatalis, and Brevicoryne brassicae were identified as the main pests. Higher concentration of 90g/5L of neem leaf extract was most effective and significantly reduced pest populations across all species studied resulting in greater yield. These findings underscored neem's potential as a sustainable biocontrol method for integrated pest management in agriculture.
