Assessing the Impact of Neem on Fall Armyworm Damage to Maize Crops: A Field-Based Study in Nabdam District, UER, Ghana

Abstract: This paper examines the effectiveness of neem as a biopesticide (using both oil and seed cake) obtained from the neem tree (Azadirachta indica) for controlling fall armyworm infestations in maize crops in Nabdam District, Upper East Region, Ghana. In July 2018, a demonstration maize field plot, with the monitoring of fall armyworm damage carried out before and after neem treatments. After two weeks, no fall army worms were seen in the section treated with neem oil spray, while they were found in the neem cake and control sections. In September 2018, maize yields were weighed. Although heavy rains affected the yield, a slightly greater yield was seen in the neem-oil sprayed section. The results of this field application of neem biopesticides is also considered in terms of practicality, effectiveness, cost, and environmental and health issues. The paper concludes with a discussion of the importance of farmer education for effective fall army worm monitoring and neem biopesticide use. Since registered neem oil products are currently being manufactured by the Nabdam Neem Company in Nangodi, the district headquarters, their availability for the study of neem effectiveness in countering FAW damage in northeastern Ghana is particularly appropriate.