Can phone text messages promote the use of integrated pest management? A study of vegetable farmers in Cambodia

Abstract

Integrated pest management (IPM) is recognized as a safer alternative to conventional pest control but adoption remains low. Modern technologies such as mobile phones could promote IPM adoption, but there is a need for better evidence. We use a cluster randomized controlled trial in Cambodia with four treatment arms to test the hypothesis that text messages sent over mobile phones, either used as a stand-alone method or combined with demonstrations and training, increase IPM adoption among vegetable farmers. Baseline and endline data were collected from 744 farmers producing yardlong bean (Vigna unguiculata subsp. Sesquipedalis) or leafy brassicas. Text messages or demonstrations and training alone did not affect IPM adoption, but when combined, they increased the adoption of IPM practices by 20% or 0.4 practices (p = 0.032). However, this combination also increased the number of pesticide sprays by 24% or 0.2 sprays (p = 0.023), perhaps as farmers became more aware of pests and diseases. These findings suggest that text messages can reinforce demonstrations and training, but not substitute them. Besides, limits to the correct interpretation of information transferred may lead to unintended adverse effects.