They are used to control pests and diseases in crops and are seen as an alternative to conventional pesticides, which are often synthetic and can have negative effects on the environment and human health.
Benefits of organic pesticides for plants:
They are safer for human health Organic pesticides are generally considered safer for human health than synthetic pesticides. Synthetic pesticides are often toxic and can have negative effects on human health, especially with long–term exposure. Organic pesticides, on the other hand, are generally considered to be safer for human health as they are derived from natural sources.
They are environmentally friendly
Organic pesticides are considered to be more environmentally friendly than synthetic pesticides. Synthetic pesticides can have negative effects on the environment, including pollution of water and soil, harm to beneficial insects and animals, and harm to non-target plants. Organic pesticides, however, are biodegradable and often have lower toxicity levels, making them less harmful to the environment.
They are effective in controlling pests
Organic pesticides are effective in controlling pests and diseases in crops. They work by disrupting the feeding and reproductive patterns of pests, preventing them from causing damage to the crop. Organic pesticides can also boost the immune system of plants, making them more resistant to disease.
They improve soil health
Organic pesticides can improve soil health by promoting the growth of beneficial microorganisms in the soil. These microorganisms help to break down organic matter in the soil, releasing nutrients that plants need to grow. Organic pesticides can also help to control soil-borne diseases, preventing them from harming the crop.
They support biodiversity
Organic pesticides support biodiversity by promoting the growth of beneficial insects and animals. Beneficial insects and animals, such as ladybugs and birds, help to control pests and diseases naturally, reducing the need for pesticides. Organic pesticides also support the growth of non-target plants, which provide habitats and food for beneficial insects and animals.
They can be used in organic farming
Organic pesticides are a key component of organic farming, which emphasizes the use of natural inputs and methods to grow crops. Organic farmers rely on organic pesticides to control pests and diseases in their crops without compromising their organic certification.
They are cost-effective
Organic pesticides can be cost-effective for farmers, especially when used as part of an integrated pest management program. Integrated pest management involves using a combination of cultural, physical, and biological controls to manage pests and diseases in crops. Organic pesticides can be an effective part of an integrated pest management program, helping to reduce the need for synthetic pesticides and minimizing the risk of pesticide resistance.
They promote sustainable agriculture
Organic pesticides promote sustainable agriculture by reducing the use of synthetic pesticides and promoting natural inputs and methods. Sustainable agriculture aims to produce food in a way that is environmentally friendly, socially responsible, and economically viable. Organic pesticides are an important tool for achieving sustainable agriculture, as they help to reduce the environmental impact of farming while also promoting the health of the soil and crops.
Organic pests as pests resistance
One of the problems with synthetic pesticides is that they can lead to pesticide resistance in pests. This happens when pests are repeatedly exposed to the same pesticide and develop a resistance to it, making the pesticide less effective. Organic pesticides, however, are less likely to cause resistance in pests, as they often work through multiple modes of action and are less persistent in the environment.
They can improve food quality
Organic pesticides can improve the quality of the food we eat by reducing the levels of pesticide residues in crops. Synthetic pesticides can leave residues on crops that can be harmful to human health, especially in high doses or with long-term exposure. Organic pesticides, on the other hand, are generally less persistent in the environment and leave fewer residues on crops.
They can reduce the risk of chemical exposure for farm worker
Farm workers who handle and apply pesticides are at risk of chemical exposure, which can have negative effects on their health. Organic pesticides are generally considered to be safer for farm workers, as they are derived from natural sources and have lower toxicity levels.
They can help to maintain ecosystem services
Ecosystem services are the benefits that humans receive from natural ecosystems, such as pollination, nutrient cycling, and water purification. Pesticides, particularly synthetic pesticides, can harm ecosystem services by killing beneficial insects and disrupting the balance of natural ecosystems. Organic pesticides, however, are less likely to harm ecosystem services as they often have less impact on target organisms.
They can provide local food systems
Organic farming and the use of organic pesticides can help to promote local food systems, where food is grown and consumed within a specific region. Local food systems can have many benefits, including reducing the carbon footprint of food production, supporting local farmers, and providing consumers with fresh, nutritious food.
They can be used in sensitive areas
Some areas, such as near waterways or in urban areas, may be sensitive to the use of pesticides due to the potential for runoff or harm to non-target organisms. Organic pesticides can be a good option for these sensitive areas, as they are often less persistent in the environment and have lower toxicity levels.
They can be used in conjunction with biological control
Biological control is the use of natural enemies, such as predators or parasites, to control pests. Organic pesticides can be used in conjunction with biological control to help control pests when natural enemies are not sufficient on their own. This approach is known as integrated pest management and can help reduce the overall use of pesticides.
They can help maintain soil fertility
Organic pesticides can help maintain soil fertility by reducing the use of synthetic fertilizers. Synthetic fertilizers can be harmful to the environment and can lead to soil degradation over time. Organic pesticides, on the other hand, can help maintain soil fertility by promoting the growth of beneficial microorganisms and improving nutrient cycling.
They can improve crop yield and quality
Organic pesticides can improve crop yield and quality by controlling pests and diseases that can reduce crop productivity and quality. By controlling pests and diseases, organic pesticides can help ensure that crops are healthy and productive, resulting in higher yields and better-quality produce.
In conclusion, organic pesticides for plants in India offer many benefits for agriculture, the environment, and human health. While they may not be a perfect solution to pest and disease management, they represent an important step towards a more sustainable and healthy agricultural system.
