Foliar Spray of Zinc, Manganese and Iron for Tetranychus urticae Control in Phaseolus vulgaris Plant

Abstract

Mites control via micronutrients spray represents a good alternative for acaricides in terms of cost, efficiency and preservation of the environment. In this study, two concentrations (65 & 130 ppm) of zinc, manganese and chelates of iron have been used to control the population of Tetranychus urticae in Phaseolus vulgaris plants. The highest conc. of each mineral led to higher reduction % that reached to 39.56, 44.93 and 42.72 % respectively in response to the third spraying and the treatments in general did not show instantaneous effect. The positive effect of these parameters on the plant has been confirmed by the observed increase in the contents of chlorophyll, soluble carbohydrates and protein compared with that of the control that have been evaluated after the third spraying. These results support the use of foliar spray of minerals to replace acaricides. The benefits behind that extended to coast-reduction, efficient alternative that would be supportive to plant nutrition that would increase the yield and at the same time environmentally-friendly.