Additive intercropping system or acaricides: which one is more efficient to prevent population buildup of two-spotted spider mite?

This article focuses on evaluating the effects of additive intercropping common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) with aromatic plants (AP) and two acaricides—spiromesifen and Dayabon—on the population dynamics of the two-spotted spider mite, Tetranychus urticae Koch, a major pest affecting common bean crops. Conducted over two years in Iran, the study found that both acaricides significantly reduced mite populations across all life stages, with spiromesifen showing the greatest efficacy. Among intercropping treatments, common bean combined with basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) notably decreased mite densities and increased bean yield and land equivalent ratio (LER), suggesting that intercropping with certain aromatic plants can serve as an effective, environmentally safer pest management strategy. The findings highlight the potential of integrating botanical companion plants and selective acaricides to sustainably manage T. urticae infestations and improve common bean production.