Role of Prosopis juliflora as a botanical synergist in enhancing the efficacy of neem kernel powder against tea red spider mites, Oligonychus coffeae (Acari: Tetranychidae)

A study was carried out to test the toxicity of neem kernel powder (NKP) in combination with seed powder of Prosopis juliflora, a botanical synergist, against tea red spider mites, Oligonychus coffeae. After mixing with this botanical synergist, different concentrations of the extracts of NKP were tested against eggs and adults of the red spider mite. Results of the experiments carried out under both laboratory and field conditions showed that the botanical synergist significantly enhanced the efficacy of NKP extract. Besides acting as a synergist, the botanical powder serves as an eco-friendly and environmentally safe formulation when combined with NKP for red spider mite management. It does not show any phytotoxicity to tea plants and was safer to non-target organisms. The aqueous extract prepared with the combination of NKP and botanical powder (synergist) does not leave any residues in made tea after the 7th day of application.