open access

Submitted: 2026-05-10
Crop Protection
Published: 2026-05-31

Bio-pesticidal efficacy of selected botanicals extracts and mixtures against Spodoptera frugiperda infestation on maize under field condition

Department of Crop Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Federal University Dutse, Nigeria
Department of Crop Protection, Faculty of Agriculture, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Nigeria
Department of Crop Protection, Faculty of Agriculture, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Nigeria
Department of Crop Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Usmanu Danfodiyo University Sokoto, Nigeria

Abstract

A two-location field trial was conducted to study the bio-pesticidal efficacy of methanolic seed extracts from three botanicals, Khaya senegalensis, Hyptis suaveolens and Azadirachta indica and their mixtures, in controlling infestation of the FALL armyworm, S. frugiperda, in maize. Field trials were conducted at two locations under a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with four replicates. Treatments include individual extracts (2.5% w/v), mixtures (50:50), a synthetic insecticide check (Emamectin benzoate 5.0 % WDG), and an untreated control. Combined analysis across locations showed that all botanical treated and synthetic check plots had significantly reduced larval counts, foliar damage incidence and severity compared to the control. Moreover, treated plots exhibited significantly higher cob weight, 1000 grain weight, and overall grain yield, resulting in enhanced yield protection. Among the treatments, the Hyptis + Neem mixture provided the highest yield protection (26.5%) compared to the standard check (25.4%). These findings suggest that methanolic botanical extracts, particularly in combination, represent a promising component for integrated pest management (IPM) strategies against S. frugiperda in maize cultivation. 

Keywords: Maize, Spodoptera frugiperda, botanicals extracts, Field trial, IPM