Aphid biocontrol in sweet pepper: 3 steps to success
24 May 2017
Pepper growers are well aware that aphid control is key to achieve high yields and good quality. In organic crops, it is an even more crucial element of the biological control programme.
Step one. Use parasitoid wasps such as Aphidius colemani, Aphidius ervi and Aphelinus abdominalis. They typically play a lead role in preventative aphid control strategies. However, naturally-occurring secondary parasitoids can often dilute the effect of beneficial wasp introductions as we head into spring (hyperparasitism).
Step two. Large predators such as ladybirds e.g. Adalia bipunctata or lacewings (Chrysoperla spp.) can consume very large numbers of aphids. These beneficials are not susceptible to natural parasites. That makes them an important second-line-of-defence when “curative” action is needed. They are of particular importance when aphid populations start to surge and when real aphid hotspots develop. In the absence of large aphid colonies however, ladybirds or lacewings are unlikely to establish a “resident” population.
Hence step number three. Add beneficials which have the ability to work preventatively yet which are not compromised by parasitism. We recommend a solid foundation of regular Aphidoletes aphidimyza introductions, bolstered by our new hoverfly product, Sphaerophoria rueppellii in springtime. These work both preventatively and curatively. Ideal introduction time is when the first aphids are spotted.
Press releases: Biobest Belgium N.V.
Read more:
New tests confirm better melon plant yields with Arrigoni Lirsa brand agrofilms
3 June 2024
High summer temperatures and attacks by aphids and other pests are the main obstacles that melon growers have to overcome to achieve satisfactory results. New field tests conducted on the land of italian industry leaders OP Lorenzini Naturamica of Mantua and Azienda Agricola Malavasi provided abundant confirmation of the efficacy of use of Arrigoni Lirsa brand agrofilms in controlling temperature, increasing plants’ yields, reducing water use and ensuring earlier ripening of the crop. »
Fruit Attraction’s Initiatives to make the most of companies' participation
28 May 2024
Fruit Attraction, which will be holding its 16th edition from 8 to 10 May, will be organising specific actions to facilitate the sales, promotion, development and growth of all the exhibiting companies. Initiatives to maximise visibility and return on investment and make exhibiting companies the centre of attention for all industry professionals. »
Focus on digital technologies that anticipate the "apple orchard of the future"
28 May 2024
Digital technologies that pave the way toward the "apple orchard of the future"- this is the common thread that will link the many events proposed at Interpoma 2024, and the Interpoma Award 2024 will make no exception. Indeed, the award will go to digital technologies that enable progress in the sustainable management of apple orchards, producing, for example, »