Effect of plant growth regulators on the infestation of major insect pests in okra

A field trial was conducted in 2022 using a randomized complete block design with three replicates to evaluate the effects of foliar-applied plant growth regulators, Isabion and Aegis, on major insect pests in okra. Populations of jassid, whitefly, thrips, aphid, and Earias vitella were monitored fortnightly from March 15 to August 30. Two foliar sprays were applied: the first on March 12 and the second a month later. Pest infestation levels in the PGR-treated plots were compared to untreated controls. Population ranges (per plant) observed for Isabion, Aegis, and the control were as follows: jassid (2.14-8.14, 2.61-9.93, 8.54-15.36), whitefly (0.51-1.95, 0.63-2.38, 2.18-3.68), thrips (0.68-1.12, 1.80-2.96, 2.79-4.57), aphid (1.50-5.02, 1.83-7.95, 10.24-18.43), and E. vitella (1.03-5.13, 1.16-8.12, 2.08-21.22), respectively. Compared to the control, Isabion and Aegis reduced the populations of jassid by 53.27% and 42.99%, whitefly by 53.18% and 43.95%, thrips by 75.53% and 35.40%, aphid by 74.96% and 64.04%, and E. vitella by 66.80% and 46.24%, respectively. Peak infestations occurred on May 15 for jassid (11.14/plant), whitefly (2.67/plant), and aphid (10.42/plant), and on May 30 for thrips (2.88/plant) and E. vitella (3.42/plant). Pest populations declined thereafter, reaching minimal levels by August. The results indicate that both PGRs enhanced plant vigor and conferred resistance to insect pests, with Isabion being more effective than Aegis. Therefore, okra growers are recommended to apply PGRs, preferably Isabion, to boost plant health, improve pod quality, and reduce pest pressure.