IPM for shallots in East Java

Jessica Page and Paul Horne of IPM Technologies have successfully helped two groups of farmers in East Java to grow crops using an IPM approach and to greatly reduce insecticide use. The farmers grow shallots which are attacked by caterpillars (Spodoptera exigua) and the losses can be total.

To combat the pest the farmers resort to using frequent applications of insecticides which can amount to up to 40% of the costs of production. We have demonstrated with collaborating farmers how to use an IPM approach based on monitoring and also using biological and cultural (management) controls.

The IPM approach reduced insecticide use by about 90% and the crops were at least equal in quality overall.

We hope to continue with this project if funding support is available