Combating Strawberry Pests, UNAIR Chemistry Student Association Develops STROCARE Biopesticide from Apple and Lemongrass
UNAIR NEWS – The Chemistry Student Association (Himaki) of Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR) has once again demonstrated its commitment to create meaningful social impact. Through a community service program held from July 19–21, 2026, HIMAKI UNAIR introduced STROCARE, an eco-friendly biopesticide made from natural extracts of apple and lemongrass. The innovation aims to support strawberry cultivation in Batu City, where the plantation is independently managed by beneficiaries of a mental health rehabilitation foundation.
Addressing Agricultural Challenges and Community Needs
The initiative was inspired by the students’ aspiration to contribute practical solutions in the fields of agriculture and community-based entrepreneurship. The strawberry farm in Batu is fully operated by individuals from a mental health rehabilitation foundation in Sidoarjo who have been assessed as emotionally stable and are participating in an empowerment program.
However, the farm has faced significant challenges, particularly during the rainy season, when pests and fungal diseases frequently attack the crops. “The biggest challenge comes during the rainy season. Pests and fungi often damage the strawberry plants. During our interviews, the farmers expressed their desire to reduce their dependence on synthetic pesticides by producing their own environmentally friendly alternative, which would also help lower operational costs,” explained Yoga, a representative of the HIMAKI UNAIR team.
After observing the considerable decline in the farm’s income caused by pest infestations, the HIMAKI UNAIR team was motivated to develop an integrated solution through an affordable and environmentally friendly biopesticide.
Chemistry-Based Research: Combining Apple and Lemongrass
The development of STROCARE began with extensive research into natural compounds known for their antifungal and pest-repellent properties.
“We first researched the active compounds commonly used to repel pests and fungi. We found that apples are rich in flavonoids, tannins, and polyphenols, while lemongrass contains citronellal and geraniol, which are highly effective in controlling pests and fungal diseases,” Yoga explained.
Before being introduced to the partner community, the formulation underwent a series of independent laboratory-scale evaluations. The team tested its effectiveness on strawberry seedlings while also ensuring that the product’s acidity level met agricultural standards. “We sprayed our formulation on the strawberry plants, and it successfully eliminated the fungal infection without harming the plants. The pH was also within the standard range for pesticides, at approximately 5.7,” he added.
An Eco-Friendly Solution for Sustainable Agriculture
Beyond reducing production costs, STROCARE offers significant environmental benefits by supporting soil health and sustainability.
“Unlike synthetic pesticides, which can damage soil structure and reduce soil nutrients, our biopesticide is made from natural ingredients that can be decomposed by soil microorganisms. It is environmentally friendly and can even help improve soil fertility,” Yoga said.
Recognizing that long-term success depends on knowledge transfer, the HIMAKI UNAIR team also emphasized the importance of continuous education for the farm managers. “They responded very positively and were excited about the innovation. To ensure they fully understand the production process, we plan to return and provide them with a practical guidebook so they can continue producing the biopesticide independently,” he concluded.
Writer: Fauziah Laili Romadhon
Editor: Ragil Kukuh Imanto
This article is adapted from a news release published by Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR) and has been edited for publication on the Department of Chemistry, Universitas Airlangga website. The original Indonesian article is titled “Atasi Hama Stroberi, Himaki UNAIR Ciptakan Biopestisida STROCARE dari Apel dan Serai.”