Effectiveness of Plant Pest Control Technology on Watermelon Productivity and Quality

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the effectiveness of various technological innovations for controlling plant pests, including chemical pesticides, biopesticides, biological agents, as well as digital technology and artificial intelligence-based precision agriculture in increasing the productivity and quality of watermelon fruit. Based on the results of a systematic literature review of publications from 2018–2025, it was found that environmentally friendly approaches such as biopesticides and Integrated Pest Management systems can reduce the use of synthetic pests by up to 60%, improve soil health, and increase fruit quality in terms of size, sugar content, and shelf life. Meanwhile, the application of precision and digital technologies based on sensors and AI has been proven to increase input efficiency and the effectiveness of controlling Plant Pests while reducing production costs. Socio-economic analysis shows that the success of technology adoption is highly dependent on support from extension services, digital literacy, and the availability of technological facilities at the farmer level. Thus, the integration of technological innovations for controlling pests in an adaptive and sustainable manner is key to increasing the productivity, efficiency, and resilience of watermelon farming in various agro-ecosystems.