Table 7 Hypothetical cost–benefit comparison of Si-NPs and Fusarium-based granular bioherbicide versus conventional herbicide use in Egyptian clover production (per feddan*).
Parameter | Si-NPs as herbicides | Fusarium bioherbicide | Conventional herbicide |
|---|---|---|---|
Material cost (EGP) | 300–700 (local source) | 250 (local source) | 750–900 (imported) |
Cost/application (EGP) | 150 | 150 | 150 |
No. of applications | 1–2/season | 1/season | 2–3/season |
Total application cost (EGP) | 300 | 150 | 450 |
Total treatment cost (EGP) | 600–1000 | 400 | 1200–1350 |
Clover fresh yield (ton/feddan*/season) | 42.9 | 34.3 | 42.7 |
Clover market price (EGP/ton FW) | 2000 | 2000 | 2000 |
Gross income (EGP) | 85,800 | 68,600 | 85,400 |
Net income (EGP) after deducting treatment cost | 85,200–84,800 | 68,200 | 84,200–84,050 |
