Detail:

Premature flower-shedding is observed in vegetable crops in the monsoon and winter which results in decreased fruiting, hence low yield and economic loss to the farmers. To avoid this, farmer Mohanbhai Lalabhai Zhala, of Kalesar village in Kheda district, mixes 100 g asafoetida (Ferula foetida) powder and 2 kg pearl millet (Pennisetum typhoides) flour and keeps the mixture, bound in a cloth, in the irrigation channel while watering. Mohanbhai learnt of this traditional practice from his forefathers and has been using it for about 50 years. Millet flour is an effective pesticide, as per Nepralert database. This practice is re-checked by Pravin Rohit in June 2004 at Kalesar village and he confirmed the practice.

Knowledge Provider / Innovator: Mohanbhai Lalabhai Zala
Agro-Ecological Zone: Middle Gujarat Agro Climatic zone(GJ-3), North Gujarat Zone GJ-4
Address: Mu. Kalesar, Po. Jaravat, Mahemadabad Kheda
District: Mahemadabad
State: Gujarat
PIN Code 387110

Crop: Vegetable Crops
Formulation: Mix 100 gm asafoetida (Ferula foetida) powder and 2 kg pearl millet (Pennisetum typhoides) flour
Ingredients: Asafoetida (Ferula foetida)powder, millet (Pennisetum typhoides) flour

---

PAS 1:

"Asafoetida or 'hing ' is used by farmers for the control of termites (Odontotemzes obesus). About 40-50 gm of asafoetida is tied in a cotton cloth. Two to three packs are placed in the irrigation channel at a distance of about 20-30 metres from each other during irrigation. The disagreeable odour repels termites and other insects."
http://popularkheti.info/documents/2013-4/PK-1-4-28-164-170.pdf

PAS 2:

"Thin fruit to reduce competition and encourage the plant to put more energy into producing fewer numbers of larger, higher quality fruit. The removal of fruit beyond what is lost during the early season drop may even be necessary. Some horticulturists even suggest thinning the blossoms, but flowers are typically an attractive feature for most homeowners. Avoid unfavourable environmental conditions that might cause a plant to drop its fruit. This involves effective water management and a balanced fertilizer program, according to individual plant specifications. Soil testing may be required in order to confirm nutrient deficiency/toxicity. Supplement with fertilizer where necessary. Avoid herbicide drift. Never apply herbicides in windy or dead calm conditions. Contrary to popular belief, dead calm conditions are often associated with a phenomenon known as temperature inversions. Spraying under such conditions can actually increase drift distance. If additional symptoms are observed on fruit, leaves or stems, proceed to identify the causal agent and administer appropriate control measures."
https://umanitoba.ca/faculties/afs/hort_inquiries/2232.html