Evaluation of applying macerates of garlic, onion, and Neem on rice crops of Paipayales-Santa Lucía

Resumen

In Ecuador, the widespread use of pesticides in agriculture has had adverse effects on the environment, health, and the economy of small-scale farmers. Viable alternatives such as neem leaf macerates, as well as a combination of garlic and onion, have been explored as biopesticides. These macerates were prepared and applied weekly. A multivariate analysis of agronomic variables, such as plant height, color, number of panicles and insects was conducted to evaluate the application of biopesticide on rice crops. The results demonstrated the efficacy of biopesticides in pest control since few insects were found on experimental blocks, where neem, onion or garlic macerates were applied. Furthermore, these natural liquids do not exert a negative impact on the development of crops. Nevertheless, community blocks, where agrochemicals were employes, showed higher plant height, color and number of panicles due to the higher amount of macro and micronutrients. Therefore, the use of biopesticides emerges as a significantly more sustainable and promising alternative to conventional chemical pesticides in agriculture. This finding underscores the importance and feasibility of adopting agricultural practices that are more environmentally and human health friendly