Assessment of New Insecticides for the management of Leafhopper (Empoasca flavescens) in Castor (Ricinus communis L.)

A field trial was conducted during rabi 2020-21, 2021-22 and 2022–23 at Palem to assess the efficacy of newer insecticides against leafhopper (Empoasca flavescens) in castor (Ricinus communis L., cv. PCH-111). The tested insecticides included Spinetoram 11.70% SC @ 1 ml/L, Thiacloprid 21.70% SC @ 1 ml/L, Cyantraniliprole 10.26% OD @ 1 ml/L and Profenofos 50EC @ 2 ml/L. Pooled efficacies of these treatments revealed that, Cyantraniliprole was the most effective in reducing leafhopper populations (16.6 leafhoppers/3 leaves/plant), followed by Profenofos (21.5), Thiacloprid (35.6), and Spinetoram (51.0), while the untreated control recorded the highest infestation (108.8). All treatments significantly increased seed yield compared to the control, with Cyantraniliprole yielding the highest (2257 kg/ha), followed by Profenofos (2000 kg/ha), Thiacloprid (1852 kg/ha), and Spinetoram (1710 kg/ha). The highest incremental cost-benefit ratio (1:8.3) was also recorded for Cyantraniliprole. These results suggest that Cyantraniliprole is the most effective and economical option for managing leafhopper infestations in castor.