Traditional use of botanicals in reducing post harvest loss at crop stacking stage in Ethiopia: A case of Farta district

Abstract

Insect pests, rodents, and microorganisms comprise the larger proportion for the causes of post-harvest loss. The use of insecticidal/pesticidal and insect repellent plants is a deep-rooted tradition and cultural heritage in Ethiopia. This study was conducted to gather information on traditional botanical-based pest control practices by farmers of Farta district, northern Ethiopia. The study identified plants traditionally used as pesticides/insecticides during stacking crops at harvest time. The survey showed farmers are using about 31 species of plants for bottom layering during stacking of their crops. These plants are used as pesticides and insecticides although their level of utilization varied. The most commonly used and effective plant species were <em>Croton macrostachyus</em> Del., <em>Eucalyptus globules</em> Labill., <em>Calpurnia aurea</em> (Ait.) Benth., <em>Vernonia myriantha</em> Hook. f. and <em>Laggera tomentosa</em> (Sch. Bip. ex A.Rich) Oliv. & Hiern, of which <em>C. macrostachyus</em> is the most effective. The insecticidal effect of these botanicals was compared to the synthetic insecticide diazinon (0.1 %). Twelve hours after application of powders of <em>C. macrostachyus, E. globulus, C. aurea</em> and <em>L. tomentosa</em>, the mean mortality rate of termites was equivalent to that caused by diazinon. Further, the insecticidal effect of different parts of <em>C. macrostachyus</em> was compared. Leaves were the most effective. This calls for further identification and adoption of cost-effective and environmental-friendly indigenous/traditional botanical based pest control methods. Identification of active principles from these plants is highly desirable.