Field and laboratory evaluation of biological compatibility of Emamectin benzoate 5 SG with agrochemicals against okra fruit borer (Helicoverpa

In the context of complex field problems compatibility of an efficacious insecticide with other agrochemicals normally used in the field is essential. In this view emamectin benzoate 5 SG 11 g a.i. ha -1 was tested with commonly used insecticide, fungicide and fertilizers. Studies were conducted in both laboratory (physical and phytotoxcity experiment) and field experiments (bio efficacy and phytotoxcity) to evaluate the biological compatibility of emamectin benzoate 5 SG recommended dose at 11 g a.i. ha -1 with commonly used other agrochemicals against okra fruit borer, Helicoverpa armigera Hubner was tested. Emamectin benzoate 5 SG at 11 g a.i. ha -1 , Urea (2%), Carbendazim 50 WP (0.1%), Endosulfan 35 EC (350 g a.i.) for the control of okra fruit borer, H. armigera at farmers fields. Two field experiments were conducted, first season at Deenampalayam during (January 2009 March 2009) and second season at Udayampalayam during April 2009 – June 2009). The new formulation of emamectin benzoate 5 SG at 11 g a.i. ha -1 and combination treatments were highly effective and reduced the okra fruit borer, H. armigera and fruit damage when compared to other agrochemicals. Emamectin benzoate 5 SG at 11 g a.i. ha -1 was physically compatible with endosulfan, carbendazim and urea which did not produce any sedimentation. When emamectin benzoate 5 SG was sprayed as tank mix on okra plants, in combination with urea, carbendazim and endosulfan it did not exhibit any phytotoxic symptoms on okra plants and was effective in controlling H. armigera and their damage to fruits. Similarly, emamectin benzoate 5 SG at 11 g a.i. ha -1 was physically and biologically compatible with endosulfan, carbendazim and urea and effective against fruit borer and reducing their damage on okra plants.