Effects of Synthetic (Carbofuran) and non Synthetic insecticides on Maize Growth and Yield in Stem Borers Infested Zones of Cross River State, Nigeria.

Abstract

Field experiment was conducted in the early and late planting season of 2009 and 2010 at Akampa and Bekwarra to evaluate the effects of carbofuran, a synthetic insecticide, Neem and Gmelina seed powder on maize agronomic characters in maize stem borer endermic zones. The treatments consisted of 2 levels carbofuran (1.0 and 1.5kga.i/ha) and 2 levels each of neem and Gmelina arborea seed powder (20 and 30kg/ha). The treatments were laid out in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with 3 replications. Data collected included stem borer population per plant, plant heights at six (6) and eight (8) weeks after planting, and grain yield. Carbofuran and Neem seed powder significantly increased plant height and yield while Gmelina seed powder application significantly  (P?0.05) reduced maize growth and yield. The treatments significantly reduced borer population compared with control. It is possible that the neem powder at 30kg/ha may be used as a boost to maize development outside its insecticidal properties on maize used by resource poor farmers.

Key words: Agronomic characters, Carbofuran, Gmelina, Neem, powder, Stem borers.