• Thrips: a tiny pest with big consequences

  February 2, 2023

  affected leeks usually command a lower price due to their less attractive appearance. A general side effect of thrips infestation is reduced vigor of the crop [...] strategy: they prick the upper cells of a plant and suck them dry. The drained cells then fill with air and take on a silvery color. Adjacent cells may also [...] picky, with most thrips species targeting many plant species. However, there is a difference in where the thrips congregate and feed on the plant, as each

• Spidex offers a solution for dozens of crops

  February 3, 2023

  Spider mite is a global problem, but there is a solution – its natural enemy, the predatory mite Phytoseiulus persimilis is used globally in a wide range [...] and ornamental crops. Spidex is a biological control product based on the predatory mite Phytoseiulus persimilis . It is nothing new, having first been [...] been proven that Spidex is an effective solution in various crops, both in the greenhouse and the field. Ph ytoseiulus persimilis is a strong predatory mite

• A step-by-step guide to whitefly control

  muscarium) , is a powerful entomopathogenic fungus for controlling whiteflies, particularly in tomato crops. This biological control agent employs a multifaceted [...] to pesticides has driven a shift toward Integrated Pest Management (IPM), focusing on biological solutions. These pests favor a variety of crops such as [...] accurate identification of whitefly species is crucial because Tobacco whiteflies ( Bemisia tabaci ) require a different management strategy compared to

• Using Casea for a healthier and safe asparagus

  them successfully in a broad spectrum of agricultural crops. A growing number of farmers are now using this natural solution that is rapidly replacing limited [...] pesticides is growing. As beneficial nematodes do not need registration in most countries, they require only a short development time to reach a new market [...] to the plants as the soil is wet and the solution penetrates better. ‘This product is very easy to apply. In addition, it was a huge advantage not to have

• Spidex: dos and don’ts in a nutshell

  November 28, 2021

  Spidex is a powerful natural enemy of the spider mite. At least, it can be. The result that you get largely depends on how you use Spidex . Take the following [...] infestation hotspots. If there are multiple hotspots, full-field spreading is a good idea. Don'ts Do not wait too long before use. If you do, the pest will [...] things so that you can spot spider mite in your crop early on. Regular scouting is the most important aspect, and will help you to keep up and ensure that you

• Predatory mite pioneers: A journey of biocontrol innovations

  October 24, 2024

  Almería, Spain, forced a shift from conventional to biological crop protection methods. “Growers urgently needed a solution to a difficult-to-control thrips [...] we were to search for a new natural enemy for each new challenge. That speed can mean the difference between a successful and a disastrous growing season [...] quickly bring Montdo Ulti-Mite to market. Today, Montdo Ulti-Mite is a key component of a pest management system, where multiple predators work together to

• Predatory mite pioneers: A journey of biocontrol innovations

  October 21, 2024

  Almería, Spain, forced a shift from conventional to biological crop protection methods. “Growers urgently needed a solution to a difficult-to-control thrips [...] we were to search for a new natural enemy for each new challenge. That speed can mean the difference between a successful and a disastrous growing season [...] quickly bring Montdo Ulti-Mite to market. Today, Montdo Ulti-Mite is a key component of a pest management system, where multiple predators work together to

• Investing in thrips control: always a good idea

  March 6, 2023

  trouble is that you can't get rid of a viral infection, and the crop can die from it. Investing in safety Investing in prevention and control is a must. [...] biological control is offset by a clean crop with low residue levels and higher productivity. In short, investing in thrips control is always a good idea! Get [...] could even completely destroy a crop! In the past, ornamental plant growers regularly had to destroy part of their crops. This is hardly ever necessary any

• 6 Steps for a Successful Mealybug Biological Program

  March 19, 2024

  enemies, so it is crucial to apply bait where ant pressure is high. Start by determining which ant species you have to help you decide which bait is appropriate [...] heatwaves. 4) Consider your compatible sprays There may come a time when you need to do a knockdown spray. Review your options ahead of time, and consider [...] provide nectar, such as buckwheat or yarrow. 6) Practice patience It can take a few years for beneficial insect populations to build up. But rest assured that

• Natural Enemies, Now a Division of Koppert Biological Systems, Inc.

  June 27, 2019

  Howell, MI. July 1, 2019– Koppert Biological Systems, Inc. is thrilled to announce it has gained a new partner in their ongoing partnership with nature; Natural [...] Over the last four years the company blossomed into a leader in its field. Therefore, there was a natural merger as the two companies both strongly believe [...] patience needed for development of a successful IPM ( integrated pest management ) program. Koppert Biological Systems is the leading provider of biological