Integrated Approaches to Combat Cucurbit Mosaic Disease in Cucumis sativus: Insights from Assam, India

Aims: This study was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of various integrated management strategies for management of cucurbit mosaic disease on cucumbers (Cucumis sativus). The aim was to study the effects of various treatments on disease incidence and vector population and promote sustainable farming through eco-friendly management approaches in an integrated manner.

Study Design: Randomised Block Design with six treatments and one control with three replications

Place and Duration of Study: Biswanath Chariali, Assam, India (2021-2022).

Methodology: Local cucumber variety “Ganga” was used to evaluate the treatments, including insect-proof seedling raising, yellow sticky traps, straw mulch, foliar sprays with neem formulation (Azadirachtin 0.03%), mineral oil, biopesticides (Beauveria bassiana and Bacillus thuringiensis), and a chemical insecticide (Imidacloprid). Disease incidence were recorded at intervals of 15 days from 30 to 75 days after transplanting. Statistical tests; viz., t-tests, ANOVA, correlation analysis were performed to analyse the treatment effects. Correlation analysis was performed between disease incidence and yield.

Results: Treatment with neem formulation (Azadirachtin 0.03%) at 5 ml/L (T2) significantly reduced disease incidence (38.89%) and increased yield (32.83 q/ha), comparable to the insecticide treatment (Imidacloprid, T6), which had the lowest disease incidence (22.22%) and highest yield (38.55 q/ha). The disease incidence and aphid vector population were mild in treatment T2 and T6, while the control (T0) showed severe disease and high vector density. Correlation analysis revealed a significant negative relationship between disease incidence and yield (r = -0.969).

Conclusion: Neem formulation has shown high efficacy in managing cucurbit mosaic disease with less hazardous impact on the environment and can be used as an alternative to chemical pesticides. Integrated management strategies incorporating neem-based botanicals provide eco-friendly alternatives for disease management. Integrated management strategies were chosen over traditional methods because they combine biological, cultural, and chemical controls, reducing pesticide reliance, minimizing environmental impact, and promoting long-term sustainability.