Farmers’ knowledge and perception of walnut insect pest and disease management in Rukum East, Nepal

A survey research study on farmers' knowledge and perception of walnut insect pest and disease management was undertaken in Rukum East, Nepal. The study aimed to evaluate the farmers’ knowledge and perception level regarding the identification and management of insect pests and diseases of walnuts. A total of 125 respondents were randomly selected for the interview with a semi-structured questionnaire and evaluated based on direct field observation. According to the survey, the Jumlish variety was more cultivated than the Turkish variety. Out of the total respondents, 79.2% were aware of the presence of insects and diseases in their field, while 20.8% were not. The study identified the walnut weevil as the most occurring insect, followed by the shoot borer, whereas dieback was the most prevalent disease in the walnut saplings. The presence of insects and diseases primarily damaged the leaves, then the stems and fruits. Many respondents followed the cultural method of management, a few followed the physical method, and very few used bio-pesticides. Farmers believed that susceptibility varies with variety, and the Turkish variety was found to be more susceptible according to their response.