Application of Kaolin as a Sustainable Strategy for Pest Control in Tomato Crop (Solanum lycopersicum L.)

One of the main constraints in the production of tomato crops (Solanum lycopersicum L.) are pests. The main form of pest control is through the application of highly toxic pesticides. As an alternative strategy for pest control in tomato crops, different doses of kaolin were evaluated. Field experiments were carried out in the province of Los Ríos (Ecuador) during the dry season. Tomato plants were treated with kaolin in doses of 20 g, 40 g and 60 g kaolin/liter, its repellent effect under controlled conditions was also considered. During the research, five pest species were identified in tomato crops: Bemisia tabaci, Prodiplosis longifila, Euchistus sp. Myzus persicae, Manduca sexta. In all species identified in the field, after the application of kaolin, the pest population is reduced or remains at low levels. The application of kaolin on tomato plants positively influences the characteristics of stem diameter, plant height and yields. Additionally, it was possible to verify that there is adult repellency of B. tabaci to plants exposed to kaolin during periods of 1 hour, 6 hours, 12 hours and 24 hours of exposure (P<0.001). Kaolin allows pest control, improves the agronomic and productive characteristics of tomato crops, therefore, its use could be considered in integrated pest management programs.