Vol. 7, Issue 4, Part A (2025)

This study investigates the efficacy of essential oils (EOs) as an alternative pest management strategy for sorghum crops, focusing on three key pests: aphids, stem borers, and shoot flies. Given the widespread concerns associated with chemical pesticides, the research aims to evaluate the pest control potential of EOs while also assessing their impact on sorghum yield and quality. Essential oils from Mentha piperita (peppermint), Cymbopogon citratus (lemongrass), and Lavandula angustifolia (lavender) were selected due to their known insecticidal and repellent properties (Benelli et al., 2012).
The study was conducted in a controlled field setting with a randomized complete block design, testing EO concentrations of 5%, 10%, and 15%. The results showed that EOs significantly reduced pest populations in all treatment groups. The 15% EO concentration provided the highest reduction in aphid (72%), stem borer (85%), and shoot fly (70%) populations, outperforming the 5% and 10% treatments. When compared to chemical pesticides, EO treatments demonstrated similar efficacy for stem borers and shoot flies but were slightly less effective for aphids. Additionally, the EO treatments improved sorghum growth parameters, including plant height, number of tillers per plant, and grain yield. Notably, the 15% EO treatment yielded 3.8 tons/ha, which was significantly higher than the control (2.3 tons/ha). The protein and fiber content in the grains also increased in the EO-treated groups, suggesting an enhancement in nutritional quality.
The study concludes that essential oils, particularly at concentrations of 10% and 15%, are effective in controlling sorghum pests without adversely affecting plant growth. These findings suggest that EOs can serve as a sustainable, eco-friendly alternative to chemical pesticides in sorghum pest management, promoting better crop yields and quality while minimizing environmental impact. Further research on optimal application methods and long-term environmental effects is recommended.