Biological Control in Greenhouses: Preparing for Spring Crops
Tuesday, 02 December 2008 16:25
If you are planning to use biological control for spring crops, then take some important steps now. The success of any biological control program relies on patience and a commitment to detail such as sanitation, scouting and record-keeping.
Clean as early as possible to eliminate over-wintering sites for pests to reduce their populations prior to the growing season. Greenhouse pests will over-winter in weeds and protected areas in unheated greenhouses and especially during years with unseasonably warm temperatures. Pests are much easier to prevent than to cure.
To learn about cleaning and disinfecting see the fact sheet: Cleaning and Disinfecting the Greenhouse
It is important to phase out the use of pest control materials in the organophosphate, carbamate, and pyrethroid chemical classes prior to releasing natural enemies since many materials in these chemical classes can persist for up to four months in the greenhouse. For more information on the compatibility of pest control materials with natural enemies refer to on-line databases, such as Koppert, Inc., (www.koppert.com) or Biobest (www.biobest.be). Check under "Side Effects." Research is continuing on the compatibility of pest control materials with natural enemies.
In addition to sanitation and phasing out the use of residual pesticides, a good weekly monitoring program should be in place. Detecting problems early is essential, since beneficials are introduced at the first sign of an infestation. A 10X hand lens will help to identify pests and beneficials. Knowing the major insects, mites and diseases prone to the crop and how to recognize beneficials is essential.
Other considerations include establishing a supplier in advance, having someone available when shipments arrive and checking shipments for viability (remember they are living organisms).
If this will be the first time using biological control, it is recommended to try it in a small isolated greenhouse, in propagation houses, or in a greenhouse where edible crops such as herbs are being grown. This will allow you to obtain experience and then have the opportunity to expand into other production areas.
More Information:
Starting A Biological Control Program for Greenhouse Insect and Mite Pests
Links to suppliers
2009-2010 New England Greenhouse Floriculture Guide, A Management Guide for Insects, Diseases, Weeds and Growth Regulators - $25 (Includes shipping and Handling)
Excellent source of information on using biological control written by Raymond Cloyd, Kansas State University.
For Ordering Information and sample sections.
Tina Smith, University of Massachusetts
