Abstract/Summary

This study was carried out to understand farmers’ and pesticide retailers’ perceptions and practices on pesticides for field vegetables in Oman. Covering seven governorates in Oman, 160 farmers and 75 pesticide retailers were surveyed. Results distinguished the 40 farmers belonging to the Farmers Association (FA) from those who did not (nFA). FA respondents diagnosed common pests and diseases of vegetables in Oman better than nFA respondents. At least 50% of both groups could identify problems and knew which pesticide to use, but the remainder could not. Around half of FA recommended the correct dose rate and pre-harvest interval (PHI) compared to about 30% of nFA. On health and safety, 77% of FA identified the potential risks of pesticides to humans and the environment, whereas 60% of nFA indicated there were no possible risks. Nearly one third of all respondents never wore PPE while using pesticides. Most FA respondents (68%) claimed that they “usually and always” read the label safety instructions in contrast to only 14% of nFA. Although they were the main source of advice to farmers, many pesticide sellers failed to identify many of the pests and diseases (50%), select the proper pesticide (70%), or recommend the correct dose rate (37%) and PHI (44%). Forty-one percent “never” read the label safety instructions and 27% “never” explained health and safety risks to customers. Spatial variability of pesticide application in three fields highlighted the variable coverage achieved using high pressure sprayers, the coefficient of variation always exceeding 30%. In a further field, the farm was targeting over twice the recommended rate. In conclusion, there is an urgent need to introduce training for all stakeholders including farmers, pesticide retailers and government extension officials to improve crop protection capabilities and awareness of IPM. A programme to phase out high pressure sprayers is recommended.