The Knowledge Base of the Horticulture Farmers on Pests that Affects their Produce in Thulamela Municipality - Vhembe District in Limpopo of South Africa

International Journal of Economics and Management Studies

© 2021 by SSRG - IJEMS Journal

Volume 8 Issue 1

Year of Publication : 2021

Authors : Rendani Thovhogi, Elliot M. Zwane, Johan A.Van Niekerk

10.14445/23939125/IJEMS-V8I1P111

How to Cite?

Rendani Thovhogi, Elliot M. Zwane, Johan A.Van Niekerk, "The Knowledge Base of the Horticulture Farmers on Pests that Affects their Produce in Thulamela Municipality - Vhembe District in Limpopo of South Africa," SSRG International Journal of Economics and Management Studies, vol. 8,  no. 1, pp. 105-110, 2021. Crossref, https://doi.org/10.14445/23939125/IJEMS-V8I1P111

Abstract:

This paper forms part of a research study conducted in the Thulamela municipality, Vhembe district, Limpopo province, and focuses on the farmers' knowledge base on pests that affect their productivity. The study targeted a population of approximately 133 smallholder farmers that produce fruits and vegetables. Farmer’s perception and knowledge of pests and their management are important components for developing a sustainable action plan to control pests such as tomato leaf miner, fruit flies, and other pests. Respondents demonstrated good knowledge concerning pests that affect their productivity, but farmers do not know other pests. About 89.5% of the respondents use chemicals to control pests, while 10.5% use cultural practices and 5.3% use indigenous methods. Only 7.5% of the respondents had been trapped in their farms. The paper concludes with the following recommendations: (1.) Smallholder farmers need to be trained on the proper identification and management of pests that affect their productivity. (2.) Farmer’s indigenous management practices of fruit and vegetable pests should be documented. (3.) Establishing a pest surveillance program in the various farming areas of Thulamela municipality.

Keywords:

Fruit flies, integrated pest management, knowledge of farmers, pest, pest management

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