Optimizing biological control of greenhouse pests with banker plant systems

Optimizing biological control of greenhouse pests with banker plant systems

Summary

Controlled experiments found that black pearl pepper plants increase survival and abundance of the biological control agent Orius insidiosus. In commercial greenhouses, a comparison of thrips biological control by augmentation and by banker plants found that both successfully reduce thrips abundance to levels tolerable by growers. These treatments also reduced spider mite abundance compared to untreated crops. Experiment this summer will further investigate whether banker plants result in greater biological control compared to augmentation alone.

Objectives/Performance Targets

1. 1) Determine optimal ‘Black Pearl’ banker plant density by examining Orius dispersal and efficacy at different distances.
   2) Determine if biological control by Orius is more effective and economical with ‘Black Pearl’ banker plants than with augmentative releases.
   3) Determine the compatibility of biological control with insecticide using augmentative release or banker plants to maintain Orius populations.

Accomplishments/Milestones

We have conducted initial experiments to fulfill Objective 1 but need to complete these in 2011. We conducted large experiments in commercial greenhouses to fulfill Objective 2. Objective 3 will be carried out in 2011. In addition, we have completed cage and laboratory studies on the effect of banker plants and pollen on Orius abundance and survival. We also held a field day att the farm on which our research is conducted.

Impacts and Contributions/Outcomes

This project is relevant to sustainable agriculture because its overall goal is to optimize the ‘Black Pearl’ banker plant system which will make biological control more effective, economical, and compatible as a pest management strategy. By eliminating drawbacks of augmentative biological control, banker plant systems will increase adoption and implementation of biological control as a pest management strategy. This will reduce reliance on chemical insecticides and their associated risks to non-target organisms and the environment. This work has been presented at the Entomological Society of America Southeast Branch meeting and National meeting. In addition, it was presented at the field day held by our grower cooperator and at an extension meeting of nursery and greenhouse growers in Johnston Co. NC.

Collaborators: