Push and Pull Method of Insect Pest Management: A Sustainable Approach to Crop Protection

Abstract

The push and pull method of pest management is an approach which employs attractant (pull) and repellent (push) crops to modify pest behaviour. It is a pest management strategy which is environmentally sound, economically viable, socially acceptable and a sustainable alternative to chemical pesticides. The push and pull method encompasses various components, including cultural practices, trap crops, repellent crops, physical barriers, pheromone traps, sticky traps, biological control, semiochemicals and essential oils. These components contribute to the method's versatility and efficacy in diverse agricultural settings. It is not only effective in managing insect pests but also promotes sustainable agriculture practices by reducing the use of harmful chemicals. This article explores the push and pulls method, an innovative and sustainable approach to pest management.