Control of termites in tea (Camellia sinensis L(0) Kuntz) plantations of Barak Valley, Assam, (India)

Abstract

Termites cause serious damage to tea plantations in Barak Valley, Assam (India) especially during the dry season (i.e. September-March). Tea plantations in the southwest facing slopes are worst affected possibly due to poor soil moisture and shade. Termites also cause considerable damage to the vegetation growing in and around tea plantations. Both chemical and phytopesticides were effective for the control of termites. Among chemical pesticides, endosulphan, chloropyriphos and phorate were equitoxic. Crude neem oil and the extracts of Andrographis paniculata controlled the termite infestation and reduced the severity of termite damage.