Pest and disease inventory offerns, Rumohra adiantiformis (G. Forst.) Chingandtheir controlstrategies

Abstract

Ferns are a floricultural commodity with high economic value, marketed for both domestic and export needs. However, production often declines due to pest and disease attacks. To date, information on pest types, diseases, and control strategies is still limited. This study aims to inventory pests and diseases in ferns and develop control strategies. The study was conducted from July 2024 to October 2025 at the farmof PT. Florex Farmindo Sukabumi at elevations of 899 masl, 1081 masl, 1126 masl, and 1209 masl, as well as at the farmof PT. Florex Cita Respati Cianjur at an altitude of 1099 masl, 1106 masl, 1114 masl, and 1125 masl. Observation methods were adjusted to the types of pests and diseases, and used sweep net, yellow pan trap, and pitfall trap methods. Data were tabulated using Microsoft Office Excel and analyzed descriptively. Pests found in both locations were armyworms and grasshoppers that cause direct damage to plants dueto feeding activities, planthoppers, mealybugs, stem borers, and anthracnose disease Colletotrichum spp., leaf tip rot Fusarium spp., and leaf blight Pestalotiopsis sp. causing gradual damage. The population of beneficial arthropods found was still relatively low. Based on the results of the inventory and the condition of the plants at the research location, a pest control strategy was developed that refers to the principles of IPM.Keywords: anthracnose: arthropod; ornamental ferns: integrated pest management