ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY APPROACH TO RICE PEST AND DISEASE MANAGEMENT

Abstract

Rice is the main food crop in Indonesia which is very important for people's food security. However, rice production often declines due to pest attacks, diseases, and climate change such as drought and floods. Pest and disease attacks can interfere with plant growth so that crop yields are reduced. Therefore, proper control is needed so that rice production is maintained. One way that can be done is the use of plant-based pesticides that are more environmentally friendly than chemical pesticides.This study aims to determine the effect of the use of plant-based pesticides in controlling pests and diseases of rice plants and their impact on the environment and human health. The method used is literature studies from several journals and research related to pest and disease control in rice plants. The results of the study show that plant-based pesticides can help reduce pest and disease attacks such as bacterial leaf blight, brown spots, and leaf rot. In addition, the use of healthy seeds, good soil tillage, balanced fertilization, the use of organic matter, and water management can also help maintain the health of rice plants.The use of plantbased pesticides is considered safer for the environment because it can reduce the negative impacts of excessive use of chemical pesticides, such as environmental pollution, pest resistance, and human health problems. Therefore, counseling is needed to farmers about the importance of environmentally friendly pest control so that rice production continues to increase and the environment is maintained.