Insecticidal activity of nanoencapsulated formulation of Artemisia sieberi Besser essential oil on Xanthogaleruca luteola (Müller) (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae)

New formulations of botanical insecticides have been developed as an effective and safe compound alternative to synthetic pesticides. Application of nanoencapsulated formulations of pesticides enhance efficiency, quality and controlled release of these substances. In this research, insecticidal activity of essential oil of wormwood sagebrush Artemisia sieberi Besser was investigated on various stages of elm leaf beetle Xanthogaleruca luteola (Müller). The experiments were conducted at 25 ± 2 °C, 65 ± 5% RH and a photoperiod of 16: 8 h (L: D). The formulated essential oil was sprayed on leaves and insects simultaneously. The LC50 value of the formulation was 5279, 3939 and 5169 ppm for eggs, larvae and adults, respectively. Treatment of leaves by nanoencapsulated oil at 3000 ppm caused significant reduction at larval stage compared to control. Our findings suggest that the use of nanoencapsulated essential oil can be effective in the management of elm leaf beetle.