Vol. 9, Special Issue 6, Part B (2025)

A field study conducted during the Kharif 2022-23 at experimental farm of Department of Entomology VNMKV, Parbhani, evaluated the influence of weather parameters on major insect pests of Chrysanthemum indicum. Aphid (Macrosiphoniella sanbornii) infestation began 15 days after transplanting, with a first recorded population of 14.5 aphids/3 leaves/plant in the 29^th SMW. Thrips infestation appeared in July with population ranging from 3.8 to 12.4 thrips/3 leaves /plant. The highest population (12.4 thrips/3 leaves) was recorded during the 40^th SMW, followed by a gradual decline. Whiteflies (Bemisia tabaci) were first noticed during 31^st SMW and peaked in the 44^th SMW. Spodoptera infestation was first observed in the second week of August (0.20 larvae/plant). The population increased steadily to reach a peak of 4.0 larvae/plant in the 44th SMW. Bud borer (Helicoverpa armigera) infestation started in the 4th week of August (34th SMW) with 0.2 larvae/plant, reaching its peak (0.80 larvae/plant) in the 45^th SMW. Natural predators like lady bird beetles, green lace wings and predatory spiders were observed throughout the cropping season.