Thrips control
Biological pest control of thrips in cannabis can be achieved effectively through the use of various biocontrol agents. Predatory mites such as Amblyseius swirskii (Swirski-Mite, Swirski Ulti-Mite) are valuable allies in thrips management, as they feed on thrips eggs and larvae. Isaria fumosorosea (Isarid), a biological pesticide, can be applied to target thrips populations and inhibit their growth. For additional control, predatory bugs such as Orius insidiosus (Thripor-I) can be introduced, as they feed on thrips at different stages of development.
Fungus gnat control
In the realm of cannabis cultivation, biological solutions have emerged as effective allies in combatting the challenges posed by sciarid flies. Among these innovative products, the entomopathogenic nematode Steinernema feltiae (Entonem) targets fungus gnat larvae. This microscopic predator actively seeks out and infects its host, effectively reducing the pest population. Similarly, the predatory mite Stratiolaelaps scimitus (Entomite-M) preys on fungus gnat larvae, further controlling their numbers. The predatory beetle Atheta coriaria (Atheta) offers an additional layer of defense by feeding on the larvae present in the growing medium. Adding to this arsenal is Isaria fumosorosea (Isarid), a biological pesticide that utilizes Isaria fumosorosea to naturally eliminate fungus gnats.
Spider mite control
Biological pest control of spider mites in cannabis crops can be achieved effectively through the use of beneficial predatory organisms. Several biocontrol agents have shown efficacy in controlling spider mite populations. Neoseiulus californicus (Spical, Spical Ulti-Mite) and Phytoseiulus persimilis (Spidex, Spidex Boost, Spidex Vital, Spidex Vital Plus) are predatory mites that target and feed on spider mites, including species like Two-spotted spider mite (Tetranychus urticae). These predatory mites actively seek out spider mite colonies and consume them, helping to reduce their numbers and prevent further damage to the cannabis plants.
Aphid control
Biological pest control is an effective approach to managing aphid infestations in cannabis crops. Several beneficial organisms are utilized as biocontrol agents to suppress aphid populations. Parasitic wasps, including Aphidius colemani (Aphipar), Aphidius matricariae (Aphipar-M), Aphidius ervi (Ervipar) parasitize and control aphid populations by laying eggs inside aphids. Chrysoperla carnea (Chrysopa, Chrysopa-E), commonly known as the green lacewing, is another beneficial insect that feeds on aphids at various life stages. Biological pesticide Isaria fumosorosea (Isarid) infects and kills aphids, contributing to population reduction.
Whitefly control
Biological pest control of whiteflies in cannabis crops can be achieved through the use of various biocontrol agents. Amblyseius swirskii (Swirski-Mite, Swirski Ulti-Mite) are predatory mites that feed on whitefly eggs and nymphs, providing long-term suppression. Isaria fumosorosea (Isarid), biological pesticide, can be applied to target whitefly populations and disrupt their development. The parasitic wasps Encarsia formosa and Eretmocerus eremicus (Enermix) that parasitize whitefly nymphs.
Russet mite control
Predatory mites offer a promising approach to tackle russet mites. Amblyseius swirskii (Swirski-Mite, Swirski Ulti-Mite) and Neoseiulus californicus (Spical, Spical Ulti-Mite) not only consume these harmful arachnids but also prevent their population from spiraling out of control. With their voracious appetites for pests, these predatory mites serve as natural biocontrols, maintaining a balanced ecosystem within the cannabis environment.
Caterpillar control
The use of beneficial nematodes, including Steinernema carpocapsae (Capsanem), has proven to be successful in controlling caterpillar populations. These nematodes are entomopathogenic, meaning they infect and kill the caterpillars. Once applied, the nematodes actively seek out the caterpillar larvae, penetrate their bodies, and release bacteria that quickly multiply, leading to the demise of the pests. Beneficial nematodes are highly effective in controlling caterpillar populations due to their unique biological characteristics. This method of biological control is highly targeted, as the nematodes specifically seek out caterpillar hosts, making them efficient and environmentally friendly agents in reducing caterpillar populations.
Leaf miner control
Parasitic wasp Diglyphus isaea (Miglyphus) has proven to be beneficial in suppressing leaf miner populations in cannabis crops.
