Archives of Current Research International

Aims: Correlation studies were conducted between mite populations and climatic parameters, such as temperature (minimum and maximum), relative humidity (minimum and maximum), and bioefficacy of different molecules against the red mite.

Study Design: The experiment was RCBD (Randomized Complete Block Design). Rose variety was planted in polyhouse which was divided in three blocks of equal size (14.6m × 1.52m). Each block was further divided into eleven subplots each of size 1.11m ×1.52m. Each plot consisted of five plants grown at a recommended spacing of 35cm × 25cm.

Place and Duration of Study: The present investigation was worked out in the experimental block of Division of Floriculture & Landscaping Architecture, SKUAST-K, Shalimar campus, Srinagar from March 2022 to December 2022 under protected condition.

Methodology: Seasonal incidence of two spotted spider mites was recorded on Ten plants of rose were selected randomly for taking the observations under polyhouse condition. A hand lens (10X) was used for taking observations. The pre-count of the mites on rose was recorded one day prior to the first spray. Observations were recorded at 1, 3, 7 & 15 days after the spray termed as post-count. Observations were taken from randomly selected 2 plants from each treatment. Second round of spray was done at 14 days interval and observations were taken in the same manner. The data recorded was subjected to statistical analysis.

Results: The peak incidence of mite on rose leaves was observed in 28^th SMW (10.55 mites/leaf) whereas peak mite incidence on flowers was observed in 27^th SMW (25.05 mites/flower). The correlation studies were worked out between mite population and weather parameters, a positive and highly significant correlation of mites with temperature (minimum and maximum), a negative and non-significant correlation with minimum relative humidity and significant negative correlation with maximum relative humidity. Bio-efficacy of different molecules against two spotted mites revealed that Fenazaquin 10% EC @ 0.4ml/L to be most efficient followed by Abamectin 1.9%EC@ 0.5ml/L. However, Chlorfenpyr10% SC @ 1 ml/L was found less effective against mites.

Conclusion: The peak incidence of mite was observed July. Use of acaricides along with entomopathogen i.e. Lecanicillium lecanii and botanical i.e. Nimbecidine and also use of bio control agents for the control of two spotted spider mites.