NEPAL POLYTECHNIC INSTITUTION
Title of the Research Project: Integrated Pest
Management (IPM) Approach to Pest
Control of Tomato
Project Leader: Aarati Rana Magar
Principal Investigator: shurendra osti
RESEARCH PROPOSAL
Title: Integrated pest management (IPM)Approach
to pest control of Tomato
Researcher: Aarati Rana Magar
Institute: Nepal Polytechnic Institute
Contact Information:aaratirana2234gmail.com
Date of Submission: January 30, 2025
Table of Contents
1. Cover Page
2. Abstract
3. Title Page
4. Executive Summary
5. Introduction
o Background of the Study
o Problem Statement
o Rationale of the Study
6. Research Objectives
o General Objective
o Specific Objectives
7. Review of Literature
o Previous Research on IPM in Tomato Cultivation
o Benefits of IPM Over Conventional Methods
o Challenges in IPM Implementation
8. Conceptual Framework
9. Methodology
o 8.1 Experimental Design (RCBD)
o 8.2 Study Area and Location
o 8.3 Treatments and Experimental Setup
o 8.4 Data Collection Methods
o 8.5 Data Analysis Tools
10. Work Schedule (Gantt Chart)
11. Expected Project Output
12. Budget Summary
13. Conclusion
14. References
Abstract
For several years, pest management in tomato production
in Cambodia has generally focused on the use of synthetic
pesticides. We compared conventional pest management
(farmers’ traditional practices) with an integrated pest
management (IPM) program on 12 farms in the
northwestern part of Cambodia. The IPM program
combined cultural, biological, and chemical practices. We
found that IPM practices reduced aphid damage by 46%,
and diseases such as Fusarium wilt and damping-off were
substantially reduced. Our results indicate that the IPM
package increased tomato yield and income by an average
of 23 and 34%, respectively, compared with conventional
practices during both dry and rainy seasons. Keywords:
arthropods, biological control, chemical control, cultural
control, disease(Porras et al., 2022)
Executive Summary
This study focuses on the Integrated Pest Management
(IPM) approach to control major pests of tomato.
Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) is one of the most
economically important vegetables, but its productivity is
often hindered by pests such as Tuta absoluta (tomato leaf
miner), aphids (Aphis gossypii), whiteflies (Bemisia
tabaci), and fruit borers (Helicoverpa armigera).
IPM is an eco-friendly pest control strategy that
combines biological, cultural, mechanical, and chemical
methods to minimize pest damage while reducing reliance
on synthetic pesticides. This research will evaluate the
effectiveness of different IPM strategies and their impact
on pest population reduction, yield improvement, and
environmental sustainability.
The study will be conducted in Nepal Polytechnic
Institute’s research farm, where different IPM
treatments will be applied to tomato plants. Data on pest
incidence, crop health, and yield will be analyzed. The
results will provide recommendations for sustainable
tomato pest management in Nepal.
Introduction
Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L), a popular and
extensively cultivated vegetable, is among the promising
commodities in horticultural production . The food crop
belongs to the family Solanaceae, a medium-sized
angiosperm family consisting of approximately 100
genera and 3,000 – 4,000 species (Knapp et al., 2004,
Oduor, 2016).(Ochilo & Nairobi, n.d.)
Tomato is a widely cultivated vegetable in Nepal,
contributing significantly to farmers' income and national
food security. However, pest infestation is a major
challenge, causing significant yield losses. Conventional
pesticide use is common but raises concerns over
resistance development, environmental pollution, and
human health hazards.
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) offers a sustainable
and effective alternative to conventional chemical
control. This study aims to explore various IPM
strategies, including biological control, resistant
varieties, and eco-friendly pesticides, to manage tomato
pests effectively.
According to Rodenburg et al. (2015), the need for a
systems approach to pest management is supported by
the hypothesis that a pest problem at the crop level
cannot be addressed unless a conducive environment is
created for managing the pest outbreak. Despite the
aforementioned benefits, systems-oriented approaches
to crop protection problems remain scarce (Schut et al.,
2014, Rodenburg et al., 2015). The objective of this
study, therefore, was to develop a systems approach
framework for integrated arthropod pest management
(IAPM) in the smallholder tomato production system.
(Ochilo & Nairobi, n.d.)
Background
Previous research has shown that overuse of synthetic
pesticides leads to:
Pest resistance (e.g., Tuta absoluta has developed
resistance to many insecticides).
Reduction of beneficial insects (e.g., pollinators and
natural predators).
Soil and water contamination.
Studies on IPM-based approaches have reported
success in reducing pest populations while
maintaining ecological balance. However, limited
research has been conducted in Nepal under field
conditions, particularly in the Daduldhaura region.
This study will evaluate the effectiveness of IPM
strategies for tomato pest management and propose
practical recommendations for Nepalese farmers.
pest management (IPM) programs has received little
attention in Cambodia. This lack of attention has
resulted in the overuse of pesticides, increased
pesticide resistance, reduction of natural enemies,
and growing threats to the environment and human
health (Mund 2011). Adopting an IPM approach that
integrates cultural, biological, and chemical practices
may increase tomato yield while reducing
dependence on harmful pesticides (Mund 2011).
Numerous pests can cause economic losses in tomato
crops.(Porras et al., 2022)
Statement of the Problem
Pests like Tuta absoluta, whiteflies, aphids, and fruit
borers cause severe losses in tomato production. The
excessive use of pesticides leads to environmental and
health risks. Therefore, there is a need to develop a
sustainable, cost-effective, and environmentally
friendly pest management approach.
The transfer of technology approach concerned the
development of technologies and knowledge by
researchers which were then transferred to farmers and
other end-users through extension agents (Schut et al.,
2014). Weaknesses of this approach led to the emergence
of a more systems-oriented approach to innovation.
Specifically, a lack of focus on the contextspecific
economic, social-cultural and agro-ecological drivers that
affect the efficiency of agricultural innovations at a farm
(or collection of farms) level led to the emergence of the
farming system approach. Later on, there was a
progressive shift to bottom-up approaches exemplified by
agricultural knowledge and information systems (AKIS).
AKIS aims to promote shared learning among value
chain actors as a means for sustainable agricultural
development. Finally, in agricultural innovation systems
(AIS) approach there is a particular focus for the political
and institutional dimensions of change processes (Schut et
al., 2014).(Ochilo & Nairobi, n.d.)
Rationale of the Study
This research aims to investigate the use of Integrated
Pest Management (IPM) for controlling pests in tomato
cultivation, with a focus on reducing dependency on
harmful pesticides and promoting sustainable, organic-
friendly farming practices in Nepal.
1. Reducing Dependency on Harmful
Pesticides
Nepalese farmers heavily rely on chemical pesticides,
which harm the environment, degrade soil health, and
pose health risks to farmers and consumers. This study
explores IPM strategies as a more sustainable alternative,
using biological and cultural methods to manage pests,
ultimately reducing the use of harmful chemicals.
2. Promoting Sustainable and Organic-Friendly
Practices
With the increasing demand for organic produce, IPM
offers a way to manage pests without harming beneficial
insects or polluting the environment. This research will
highlight eco-friendly pest control methods compatible
with organic certification standards, supporting both
local and global agricultural sustainability.
3. Practical Recommendations for Nepalese
Farmers
The study will provide practical, region-specific pest
control solutions for Nepalese farmers, particularly those
facing financial and technical constraints. IPM offers
cost-effective, locally adapted alternatives to pesticides,
improving both crop yield and quality while reducing
farming costs.
4. Contribution to Sustainable Agricultural
Development
This research will help fill knowledge gaps in pest
management for tomato farming in Nepal and contribute
to the development of sustainable agricultural
practices. It will offer valuable insights to policymakers,
farmers, and the academic community, promoting IPM as
a solution for more resilient agricultural systems in Nepal
and similar regions.
Objectives
General Objective:
To evaluate the effectiveness of Integrated Pest
Management (IPM) strategies in controlling pests
and enhancing tomato production in Nepal.
Specific Objectives:
1. To assess the efficacy of different pest control
methods (biological, mechanical, cultural, and
chemical) within the IPM framework.
2. To compare the effectiveness of IPM in reducing
pest damage and improving tomato yield and
quality.
3. To analyze the economic feasibility and
sustainability of IPM practices in tomato farming.
4. To provide recommendations for adopting IPM as a
standard practice in Nepalese tomato farming.
Hypothesis:
1. Null Hypothesis (H₀): There is no significant
difference in pest control, tomato yield, or quality
between the different IPM treatments (biological
control, cultural control, chemical control) and the
control (no treatment) in tomato farming.
2. Alternative Hypothesis (H₁): There is a significant
difference in pest control, tomato yield, or quality
between the different IPM treatments (biological
control, cultural control, chemical control) and the
control (no treatment
Research Questions:
Primary Research Question:
How effective is the Integrated Pest Management (IPM)
approach in controlling pest populations and improving
the yield and quality of tomatoes in an organic farming
system?
Secondary Research Questions:
What is the impact of biological control (use of natural
predators) on pest control and tomato yield?
How do cultural practices (crop rotation, resistant
varieties, and mulching) contribute to pest management
and tomato quality?
Are there significant differences in pest management
effectiveness between different IPM treatments
(biological, cultural, chemical)?
Literature Review:
IPM Overview: IPM involves a combination of
techniques that minimize pest damage while being
environmentally friendly. Biological control, cultural
practices, mechanical methods, and judicious
pesticide use are key components of IPM.
Effectiveness of IPM in Tomato
Farming: Several studies have demonstrated that
IPM strategies reduce the reliance on chemical
pesticides while maintaining or improving crop yields
(Choudhury et al., 2020).
Pest Issues in Nepal: Common pests like
aphids, whiteflies, and hornworms are prevalent in
tomato fields, causing substantial damage (Shrestha
et al., 2019)
Previous Studies on IPM in Nepal:
While IPM has been widely studied in other crops, its
application in tomatoes in Nepal is relatively
underexplored.
Conceptual Framework:
Variable
Variable Description Indicators
Type
Independent IPM Combination of Pest count, pest
Variable Practices biological, cultural, damage severity,
Variable
Variable Description Indicators
Type
mechanical, and pesticide use, crop
chemical methods rotation
Dependent Pest Control Reduction in pest Pest population, crop
Variable Effectiveness population and damage damage percentage
Dependent Total weight/quantity of Yield per plot,
Tomato Yield
Variable tomatoes harvested marketable produce
Quality of the harvested
Dependent Tomato Size, color, taste, and
tomatoes (appearance,
Variable Quality marketability
size, flavor)
Materials and Methods :
Field trials were conducted during the dry season .
Dryseason temperatures ranged from 21.5 to 36 C, with a
total rainfall of 370 mm, with and 18 to 71% relative
humidity. The rainy season had total rainfall of 1,050 mm,
with temperatures ranging from 22.5 to 35.5 C and 33 to
100% relative humidity.IPM package components were
selected using our experience in similar systems in other
countries such as Bangladesh, Nepal, and India.(Porras et
al., 2022)
Survey Area:
The research will take place at Nepal Polytechnic
Institute, specifically in the vegetable research field. The
experimental plots will include vegetable crops such as
tomatoes.
Sample and Sample Design:
The experiment will use a Randomized Complete Block
Design (RCBD) with 4 treatments, each replicated three
times to account for field variability.
Treatment Groups:
1. Biological Control (IPM): Use of natural
enemies like ladybugs (Coccinella spp.) and
parasitoid wasps to manage pests such as aphids and
thrips.
2. Cultural Control (IPM): Practices like crop
rotation, mulching, and the use of resistant tomato
varieties.
3. Chemical Control (IPM): Application of
organic-approved pesticides such as neem oil or
insecticidal soap.
4. Control (No Treatment): No pest control
intervention to observe natural pest dynamics.
Data Collection Techniques:
Pest Monitoring: Weekly counts of pest
populations (aphids, whiteflies, etc.) using visual
inspections and sticky traps.
Crop Yield Measurement: The total yield
from each plot will be measured and compared to
assess the impact of different treatments.
Quality Assessment: The tomatoes will be
evaluated for quality factors like size, color, and
marketability.
Economic Assessment: The cost of pest
management (e.g., pesticide costs) and the revenue
from tomato sales will be compared across
treatments to assess economic viability.
RCBD Experimental Design Table:
Treatment 1: Treatment
Treatment 3: Treatment 4:
Biological 2: Cultural
Block Chemical Control (No
Control Control
Control (IPM) Treatment)
(IPM) (IPM)
Block
Plot 1 Plot 2 Plot 3 Plot 4
1
Treatment 1: Treatment
Treatment 3: Treatment 4:
Biological 2: Cultural
Block Chemical Control (No
Control Control
Control (IPM) Treatment)
(IPM) (IPM)
Block
Plot 5 Plot 6 Plot 7 Plot 8
2
Block
Plot 9 Plot 10 Plot 11 Plot 12
3
Block
Plot 13 Plot 14 Plot 15 Plot 16
4
Explanation of the Table:
Blocks: The experiment will consist of 4 blocks.
Each block represents a homogenous area of the field
that minimizes variability due to factors like soil type
or slope.
Treatments: The four treatments tested in the
experiment are:
o Biological Control (IPM): Introduction
of natural predators like ladybugs and parasitoid
wasps to control pests.
o Cultural Control (IPM): Practices like
crop rotation, resistant varieties, and mulching.
o Chemical Control (IPM): The application
of approved organic pesticides.
o Control (No Treatment): No
intervention to observe natural pest dynamics.
Plot:Each plot will be assigned one of the four
treatments. Since each block will contain all four
treatments, this allows for comparison across
treatments while controlling for block-level
variability (e.g., soil differences).
Data Collection and Techniques:
1. Pest Monitoring:
o Visual Inspections: Weekly counts of
pests like aphids and whiteflies.
o Sticky Traps & Sweep Netting:
Capture flying and crawling pests.
o Data Collected: Type and number of
pests per plot.
2. Crop Yield Measurement:
o Harvesting: Weigh total tomato yield
per plot.
o Size and Weight: Record average
size and weight of tomatoes.
o Data Collected: Total yield (kg), size,
and weight.
3. Quality Assessment:
o Visual Assessment: Check for size,
color, and ripeness.
o Marketability: Count marketable vs.
non-marketable tomatoes.
o Data Collected: Quality score (1-5
scale), marketable vs. non-marketable
count.
4. Economic Assessment:
o Cost of Pest Management:
Calculate costs for each treatment
(e.g., labor, materials).
o Revenue: Estimate revenue from yield.
Data Analysis Tools:
1. Descriptive Statistics:
o Calculate mean, standard deviation,
and range of pest population, yield,
and quality.
2. ANOVA:
o Test differences in pest population,
yield, and quality across treatments.
o Post-hoc Test (e.g., Tukey’s HSD) to
identify specific differences.
3. Cost-Benefit Analysis:
o Compare treatment costs with revenue
to assess economic viability.
4. Software:
o SPSS, Excel for statistical analysis.
Project Output:
Pest Control Effectiveness: Assessing
how each IPM practice contributes to pest
reduction.
Tomato Yield and Quality: Comparison
of yields and quality between different IPM
strategies.
Economic Feasibility: Determining the
cost-effectiveness of IPM compared to
traditional methods.
Sustainability Evaluation:An assessment of
the long-term sustainability of the applied IPM
strategies, including their environmental
impact and contributions to ecosystem health.
Recommendations for Farmers:Practical
recommendations for farmers on the most
effective and economically viable pest control
practices for organic tomato farming.
Academic Contribution:Contribution to the
body of knowledge in sustainable agriculture
and IPM, particularly in the context of organic
farming in Nepal.
Work Schedule (Gantt Chart)
Task Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul
Preparation & Setup ██████
Site Selection and
█████
Approval
Field Layout Design
█████
(RCBD Setup)
Training of Research
████
Team
Implementation of
██████ ██████
Treatments
Application of IPM
██████ ██████
Treatments (1-4)
Pest and Crop
██████ ██████ ██████ ██████ ██████
Monitoring
Data Collection ██████
Pest Population Count ██████ ██████ ██████ ██████ ██████
Tomato Yield &
██████
Quality Evaluation
Data Analysis ██████ ██████
Task Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul
Statistical Analysis &
██████
Report Writing
Final Report
██████
Submission
Budget summary
Item Estimated Cost
Personnel (Researchers) 8,000
Equipment & Tools 5,000
Pest Control Materials 4,000
Data Collection 3,000
Miscellaneous 2,000
Total 22,000
Conclusion:
This research will provide essential insights into the
effectiveness and feasibility of Integrated Pest
Management (IPM) in sustainable tomato farming in
Nepal. By integrating biological, cultural, and minimal
chemical controls, IPM can help farmers reduce pesticide
dependency, enhance natural pest control, and
improve tomato yield and quality. The findings will
support the adoption of eco-friendly pest management
strategies, promoting economic viability, environmental
sustainability, and long-term soil and ecosystem health.
Ultimately, this study aims to guide farmers, researchers,
and policymakers toward more resilient and sustainable
agricultural practices
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