Utilization of Pesticidal Plants in Pest Management among Smallholder Vegetable Farmers in Bahati Division, Nakuru, Kenya

Abstract

The use of synthetic pesticides has made impressive impacts on pest control resulting in pest management being synonymous with pesticide use. However, the limitations of synthetic pesticides are evident as pest problems have persisted and also negative effects on human beings and the environment.  The study was conducted in Bahati, Nakuru, Kenya to determine the use of alternatives to synthetic pesticides in pest management among vegetable farmers. The results showed that 58 percent of the respondents were men and 42 percent were women. Kales was the most popular vegetable grown by 87 percent of the farmers followed by tomatoes at 79 percent. Aphids, spider mites and caterpillars were the common insect pests. The farmers depended mostly on synthetic pesticides for pest management. The findings indicated that 62 percent of the farmers had knowledge of pesticidal plants which they viewed as a cheap alternative to synthetic pesticides in pest management.  However farmers explained that the limitation in using pesticidal plants for pest management was lack of specificity in dosages and methods of application. Pesticidal plants were rated at low to moderate effectiveness.  Results indicated need for more research and education on ingredients, methods of preparation and application and target pests. Utilization of pesticidal plants can become a viable pest management option for farmers, after further research and education on preparation and application to improve effectiveness.

Key Words: Smallholder farmers, Effectiveness, Pest management, Pesticidal Plants, Vegetable crops, Environmental conservation