Pakistan and China have launched a joint initiative to test the ecological methods of tomato cultivation aimed at reducing the use of pesticides while supporting yields.
The field tests were carried out in the Tomato Culture area of Chak # 48 NB, Sargodha, under the supervision of the University of Agriculture Faisalabad (UAF) and the University of Yunnan. The work was carried out by the Yunnan Fruit Vegetable Flower Flower Integrated Management International Joint Lab.
The researchers tested a system called “3MP” or multidimensional management of several pests. The method combines improved fertilization to strengthen the natural resistance of plants with complementary cultivation. SESAMUM Indicum was planted as a trap culture to attract harmful insects far from tomatoes, while Hybrida verbena has been introduced to provide nectar to beneficial insects that feed on pests.
According to the test results, the 3MP approach reduced the use of chemical pesticides by more than 40%. Tomato yields have been kept at levels comparable to conventional farmers’ practices, some cases registering slight increases. The trials have also reported improvements in the quality of fruit, soil health and biodiversity in the field, as well as lower greenhouse gas emissions.
Dr. Abid Ali, a scientist of Pakistani agriculture, explained that in the absence of officially recommended pesticides, many farmers have relied on unregulated chemical spraying, which includes risks for soil, biodiversity and human health. He noted that the new system offers a safer alternative to producers.
Dr. Han Peng of the joint laboratory said that Sargodha’s tests have shown that the integration of traps crops, nectar factories and improved fertilization provided effective control of devastors without high dependence on chemical pesticides.
Two candidates for the Pakistani doctorate, Mr. Jawad Hassan and Miss Sana Anjum, were closely involved in the field experiences.
The collaboration between the UAF and the University of Yunnan began in 2023 and is one of the broader international trials of the 3MP system in China, Vietnam, Thailand and certain parts of Europe.
Project managers plan to extend training through workshops with farmers, extension workers and political decision -makers to support the adoption of the new system in the operations of agriculture of Pakistani tomatoes.
