| ABSTRACT: Fruit bagging is an efficient mechanical control technique used in fruit growing. However, to date, few studies have evaluated the efficacy of bagging in the cultivation of vegetables, including tomato crops. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of bagging of tomato flowers and/or fruits using a non-woven fabric (NWF) for the control of Helicoverpa spp., Neoleucinodes elegantalis, and Tuta absoluta, to evaluate the effect of this technique on the final yield, and determine the optimal period for bagging. Tests were conducted in a commercial crop of staked ‘Valerin’ tomato plants located in the municipality of Ubajara, Ceará State, Brazil. The experimental design was randomized blocks with a 2x4 factorial design (sprayed... |
