Status of Pesticide Use among Thyme (Thymus vulgaris) Crop Farmers in North West Bank, Palestine

Abstract

The data were collected to diagnose the current status of pesticide use on thyme crops (Thymus vulgaris). In total, 111 questionnaires were used to calculate the means, standard deviation, and percentages of farmers’ responses. Chi-square (χ2) and T-tests were employed to test the associations between pesticide application practices and demographic variables, recipients of extension, sources of farmer information, production, and marketing. The results showed that 69.7% of farmers used 23 insecticides, and 11.8% of the pesticides were not suitable for pest control. Additionally, 73.5% were not compatible with the safety period. There was a 29.2% increase in pesticide concentration from the recommended amount and a 32.4% increase in the number of spraying times during the season. Farmer commitment to pesticide use instructions was moderate, with a mean of 2.8 ± 0.68. In total, 51.4% of farmers received extension services, and 47.2% relied on their local experience for pesticide practices. Extension services influenced the overused dose. Most farmers did not participate in specialized courses or field days, and no regulatory extension was carried out by institutions for them. They did not adhere to a production guide or obtain a quality certificate. The application of different pesticides did not increase the productivity of thyme. The study findings revealed alarming trends in current farmer practices, with significant implications for crop, farmers, and consumer safety. They underscore the pressing need for targeted interventions, including improved extension services and increased farmer awareness to promote responsible pesticide use.