Dr. Sangita SharmaAKSHUL RANA2024-03-222024-03-222023-11-04https://krishikosh.egranth.ac.in/handle/1/5810207643In order to assess the physical compatibility, phytotoxic incompatibility, and chemical compatibility of pesticide combinations in apples, the current studies were conducted in the lab and field at RHRTS, Mashobra, Shimla, of the Department of Entomology, Dr. Yashwant Singh Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, Solan H.P.2021-23.The objective of the current study was to examine the compatibility of common pesticides used in apple farming on a physical, chemical, and phytotoxic level. Six acaricides, 20 fungicides, 6 insecticides and 6 nutrients in total were chosen for the study, and their compatibility was evaluated in light of their physicochemical characteristics and potential effects on apple trees. Some of the pesticides did, however, exhibit chemical incompatibility, as evidenced by the development of precipitates or observed colour changes. Additionally, the effects of the pesticides on apple seedlings were evaluated in order to determine their phytotoxicity. Out of 150 mixtures of HMO, acaricides, insecticides, fungicides and nutrients alone and in combinations, 36 combinations showed foaming, flocculation and sedimentation. However, this foaming/sedimentation was lower than the prescribed limit (2ml/100ml or 20ml/l), but it requires extended research before any recommendations. The remaining 114 pesticide combinations showed neither foaming nor sedimentation indicating that they were physically compatible. Among 150 different combinations of pesticides studied; 49 combinations exhibited flocculation and sedimentation. Minimal pH shifts toward alkalinity or acidity were observed in the current experiments. Propineb, Mancoeb, Copper oxychloride, Ziram, Zineb, Nativo, SAAF and Cabriotop reported sedimentation/foaming, flocculation and other undesirable effects in HMO solutions. According to the findings, some pesticides significantly hampered the growth and development of apple seedlings, while others had no negative effects. Overall, this study's findings offer insightful information about the compatibility of pesticides frequently used in apple farming in terms of their physical, chemical, and phytotoxic properties. Farmers and other agricultural professionals can use these findings to optimise pesticide use and reduce any potential adverse effects on apple trees and the environmentEnglishThesis