Integrated Pest Management (IPM) of pigeon pea pests for improved yields in Kenya

The trial was to test whether pest management in pigeon pea production had effects on yields (quantity & quality). Results showed a highly significant difference (p<.001) in the pigeon pea grain yields with (1.66±0.041; 0.91±0.042) tons per Ha for UM and LM agro ecological zones, respectively. An increase of 43.29% and 52.35% in the number of pods was recorded in IPM and FP managed plots, respectively. Further, pod weight (g) for IPM plot increased by 39.24% against a 48.22% in the FP managed plots. Records of 40.81% & 55.37% increase in number of grains in IPM and FP managed plots were established, respectively. Additionally, the grain weight (g) increased by 34.77% in the IPM and by 51.60% in the FP managed plots. An increase in percent protein content was recorded with 16.85%, 16.67% and 14.64% from FP, IPM and control managed plots, respectively. Higher yields were noted in UM compared to LM Agro Ecological Zone. Pest management is a key input in pigeon pea production and farmers need to manage pests for increased quantities and quality.