Evaluation of the efficacy of cost-effective organic approaches to wax scale management in mango orchards (Tom EJC Variety)

Wax scale insects (Coccus spp.) are major pests of mango (Mangifera indica L.), causing direct damage through sap feeding and indirectly promoting sooty mold growth, which reduces photosynthesis and fruit marketability. This study evaluated the effectiveness of organic treatments neem oil with horticultural soap solution and wood vinegar, compared with a chemical control (imidacloprid) in managing wax scale infestations on TOM EJC mango orchards. Data were collected over eight weeks on wax scale population density, leaf health, sooty mold incidence, and treatment costs. The results showed significant reductions in wax scale populations across all treatments except the control (ANOVA, P < 0.0001). The chemical treatment completely eliminated wax scales by Week 5, while wood vinegar and neem oil achieved 99.1% and 98.3% reductions, respectively. Sooty mold incidence declined in parallel, with chemical treatment (94.0%) and wood vinegar (92.5%) outperforming neem oil (88.3%). Cost analysis revealed that wood vinegar was the most economical option (LKR 1,200/ha) though labor-intensive, neem oil represented a moderate-cost solution (LKR 2,300/ha), and chemical treatment, though effective, had higher costs (LKR 4,500/ha) and raised concerns regarding environmental impact. These findings indicate that wood vinegar offers a cost-effective, eco-friendly alternative to chemical pesticides, with efficacy levels comparable to synthetic control. Neem oil also presents a viable organic solution, particularly where moderate costs and labor inputs are acceptable. Overall, the results support the integration of organic treatments into sustainable pest management strategies for mango cultivation.