Research project Management of soil pests in Protected Foliar Crops

General introduction

In recent years, the number of problems caused by small flies (mainly larvae of sciarid flies and fungus gnats) and springtails (feeding damage and/or cosmetic damage) is clearly increasing. The elimination of some broad-spectrum (soil) insecticides and climate change are likely to drive this issue. The BEBOB operational group, we aim to develop and implement an IPM strategy among growers of foliar crops in greenhouses, through knowledge building, cooperation, guidance and dissemination.

Research approach

We offer growers the opportunity to exchange experiences and offer them new insights on prevention and control by means of three small practical trials. Growers who want to start working with these new insights in the second half of the project will be assisted in following up and objectively assessing the added value of their actions. Thanks to regular meetings, including semi-annual consultations and visits to the field trials, the project remains hands-on. These interactions promote a rapid exchange of knowledge between researchers and growers.

Relevance/Valorization

For growers, being able to use alternative measures for pest control is of great importance. At the end of the project, we will share the cost-benefit analysis of the applied control methods with growers.

Financing

Vlaamse Overheid - L&V