More resilient cucumber crop starts with healthy roots Westerlo, Belgium
Now that we are heading towards summer, second cucumber crops are starting to be planted in greenhouses. Now is the time to take a close look at biological control, according to Biobest advisor - Marvin Koot. With the increased Pythium pressure addressed, Marvin turns his attention to above the mat. “Spider mites are a recurring problem in the second crop”, he says. "You should therefore take preventative action against spider mites remaining from the first crop, by introducing our Californicus-Breeding-System. Hang the sachets mainly at the height of the facades and concrete paths - as these are the places spider mites like to hide. In the crop itself, Marvin recommends montdorensis or swirskii as the most effective predators. “Both predatory mites can be released in sachets or as loose material,” he says. “If you come across spider mite hotspots during cultivation, Phytoseiulus-System is the answer. This voracious predatory mite excels in combatting hotspots quickly and thoroughly. “In addition, the gall midge Feltiella-System is proving its worth in cucumber. Feltiella larvae devour the pest at every stage of development.” Due to the lack of crop pollen, predatory mites have little food in a cucumber crop. “To help establish a good population in the crop, it is wise to apply Nutrimite™ feed supplement one week after the introduction of the predators and to repeat on a regular basis. If sufficient predatory mites are present, supplementary feeding can be phased out.“ In action against aphids Just as timely spider mite control is recommended, so too is action against aphids. “Since the loss of Plenum, growers are increasingly relying on biological control with the parasitic wasp colemani (Aphidius-System) and gall midge Aphidoletes (Aphidoletes-System)”, explains Marvin. “Complementing each other, they can be introduced together and it is important to start in good time. “For both beneficials, the females actively search for aphid hotspots in which to lay their eggs. On hatching, the larvae eat the aphids.” Stink bug on the move Your Biobest advisor will be pleased to help you work out a tailor-made strategy for your company.
More solutions from: Biobest Belgium NV Website: http://www.biobestgroup.com/ Published: June 14, 2021 |