Effect of integrated nutrient-pest management and planting geometry on the fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda), stem borer (Busseola fusca) and weed infestation of maize (Zea mays L.) in Cameroon

Abstract

Maize productivity is frequently hampered as a result of poor soil fertility, insect pests, weed infestations and agronomic management in sub-Saharan Africa. The purpose of this study was to evaluate how integrated nutrient-pest management and planting geometry affected fall armyworm, stem borer, weed infestation, and maize growth performance. The experiment was laid out in a split-plot design with planting geometry as the main plot and nutrient-pest management strategies as subplots with three replications at Buea, Cameroon, from August to December 2022. Planting geometry significantly influenced weed infestation and maize growth performance but did not affect the incidence and severity of fall armyworm and stem borer. Planting one plant per stand at 25 cm intra-row spacing significantly reduced weed density by 11%, weed biomass by 14%, and increased maize ear formation by 5% as compared to planting two plants per stand at wider spacing. Chem + Org + Bio treatment significantly reduced maize grain damage incidence and severity by fall armyworm and stem borer by an average of 13% and 14%, respectively, as compared to chemical treatment alone. The use of an integrated Chem + Org + Bio nutrient-pest management strategy with planting one plant per stand at 25 cm intra-row spacing is the best and most effective method to reduce fall armyworm, stem borer, and weed infestation, reduce the consumption of chemical fertilizers and pesticides, and improve maize productivity in a sustainable way.