Control of Pepper yellow leaf curl Indonesia virus and Its Vector (Bemisia tabaci Genn.) on Chili Plants (Capsicum annum L.) Using Resistant Variety and Insecticide Application

Abstract

PepYLCIV, the cause of chili yellow leaf curl disease, is currently widespread in Indonesia and cause up to 100% yield loss, transmitted by whitefly, namely Bemisia tabaci. The purpose of the current study was to determine the effect of using chili varieties with different resistance to Geminivirus and different frequencies of insecticides application on B. tabaci population, PepYLCIV incidence and severity on two chili varieties with different resistance to Geminivirus. The experimental design used was a Split Plot Design. The main plots were chili varieties consisting of Baja MC F1 and Pilar F1. Sub-plots were the frequency of insecticides application which consisted of three levels, those are: not applied, applied once a week, and applied twice a week. Parameters observed were B. tabaci population, disease incidence and severity which carried out every week (starting 23 days after planting). The results showed, the use of insecticides and varieties with different resistance to Geminivirus had no effect on suppressing B. tabaci populations during the rainy season. Thus, chili plants didn’t need insecticides application during the rainy season. The use of resistant varieties can reduce the incidence and severity of chili yellow leaf curl disease, but both varieties reacted similarly to B. tabaci.