Integrated Pest Management (Biological Control) protects the natural enemies that help keep bad pests (aphids, whiteflies and thrips) that are common carriers of plant diseases and viruses in check. It avoids unnecessary chemical use that may endanger human health, wildlife and the environment. Broad-spectrum chemicals also damage the beneficial soil life and insect predators that keep plants healthy.
We have been using biological controls for pest management in the greenhouses since 2009. This program works on a preventive basis. Some beneficial insects are introduced before the first plants are placed in the greenhouse, others are day length sensitive and need to wait for longer days and warmer weather.
Watch for our ‘Good Bugs at Work’ signs designating which plants we are using to either provide a breeding ground for our beneficial insects or a food source.
Using biological controls requires patience, allowing the good bugs the time to do their task of either eating or parasitizing the bad bugs.
We do not use any neonicotinoids, and strongly believe in the importance of protecting our pollinators.
