Incidence of Thrips tabaci on Onion (Allium cepa L.) and their Control in Sokoto and Kebbi States, Nigeria

Abstract

Primary data were generated on insect pests of onion using structured
questionnaire on one hundred farmers from Kebbi and Sokoto States. Results obtained indicated that all farmers identify the major insect pest affecting onion as tiny, whitish or brownish insect, present mostly in hot season. Majority of the farmers use insecticides in controlling it whenever the crop shows sign of insect feeding, such as stunting, in addition to silvery sheen. 41.5% of the respondents use Karate, 33.49% Cotalm P168, 18.87% Gammalin, 4.72 % Nuvan and 1.42% Cymbush. However, some combine ash with chemicals, probably to minimize production cost.

Key words: Onion, thrips, chemical, control.