Taiwan develops plant oil mixture to replace pesticides

Want China Times, CNA 2014-01-10

A sample of the plant mixture. (Internet photo)

The Taiwan Agricultural Research Institute has developed a mixture of essential oils and plant oils to replace pesticides when growing vegetables and fruit, as part of the government's efforts to promote healthy agriculture.

Yu Jih-zu, an assistant researcher at the institute, told CNA Wednesday that his team has developed a great substitute for pesticides after seven years of trial and error.

The mixture contains five essential oils and three to four plant oils, Yu said, but he declined to give further details, citing commercial concerns.

The institute has transferred the know-how to three local companies, he added.

"The combination can enhance the effectiveness of other natural pesticides, such as a mixture of lime and sulfur," Yu said.

The newly developed oil mixture has been used for growing cucumbers, peas, tomatoes, jujubes, papayas and strawberries, according to the institute.

Tsai Jyh-nong, a deputy researcher at the institute, said that farm management still plays an important role, as timing is critical.

Greenhouses provide the best environment for crops, and farmers can use small-mesh nets to lower building costs, the researcher told CNA.

Weeding is crucial, Tsai went on, claiming that a lot of farmers are unaware that weeds offer the perfect breeding ground for parasite eggs and diseases.

Farmers should also take note of the kind of pests are invading their crops and what diseases are infecting their crops, he said.

"Such low-cost preventative measures have proved effective. Most important of all, the crops are free of pesticide residue," Tsai said.

"It not only ensures the health of consumers, but also preserves the ecosystem," he added.