ANBP eNewsletter

Five Tips For Using Beneficial Nematodes

By Cozette Hadley, Becker Underwood, Inc.

Now, more than ever, nematodes are gaining acceptance and use as an important tool in controlling insect pests.  “But,” you say, “I always thought nematodes were bad and damaged crops.”  The truth is, those are the “bad guys” and we’re talking about the “good guys.” Read More...

Managing Greenhouse Whitefly With Encarsia formosa

By Marshall W. Johnson, Ph.D.  Department of Entomology, University of California, Riverside. 

As summer heats up, greenhouse crops ranging from vegetables to ornamentals become more and more vulnerable to pest outbreaks that can quickly expand out of control.  Whiteflies are small and commonly go unnoticed unless you’re watching for them.  If you’re not cautious, you can quickly have a major infestation.  Besides causing visible damage at moderate numbers, they produce cosmetically undesirable sooty mould, reduce overall plant vigor and yields, and can transmit diseases.  Greenhouse whitefly is always a likely suspect, and if you’ve had problems before, it’s always wise to revisit sound preventative guidelines and learn some tips for using natural enemies to add to your integrated pest management toolbox. Read More...