Organic based foliar formulations on mulberry: A pathway to enhance rearing performances of double hybrid silkworm, Bombyx mori L.

An investigation was conducted to assess the efficacy of organic-based foliar formulations on mulberry and their influence on the rearing performance of the double hybrid [FC₁ x FC₂] silkworm, Bombyx mori L. The study involved the application of organic foliar formulations — specifically Jeevamrutha, Panchagavya, and Vermiwash — at varying concentrations (5%, 7.5%, and 10%) on the V-1 mulberry variety at 25 and 32 days after pruning (DAP). These applications were made in conjunction with the recommended doses of organic manures and fertilizers. Additionally, Seriboost at a concentration of 0.25% was used as a check, along with water control and absolute control treatments. The efficacy of the organic foliar formulations on mulberry was assessed through bioassays utilizing the double hybrid silkworm. Notably, Vermiwash applied at a 10% concentration resulted in the highest mature larval weight (5.087 ± 0.061 g), effective rate of rearing (ERR) (94.18 ± 0.558%), shell weight (0.472 ± 0.002 g), shell ratio (22.13 ± 0.116%), and silk productivity (7.148 ± 0.057%). In contrast, the application of Panchagavya at 10% led to higher cocoon weight (2.140 ± 0.011 g), pupal weight (1.663 ± 0.007 g), and cocoon yield (90.61 ± 0.394 kg/100 disease-free layings (DFLs)) compared to the absolute control. Seriboost at 0.25% demonstrated improvements over both the water control and absolute control, although its effects were less significant than those of the organic formulations. Overall, the findings suggest that organic-based foliar applications have the potential to enhance the rearing and cocoon parameters of silkworms.