INTRODUCTION

Pesticide use is becoming more expensive and difficult with increasing regulation, loss of chemistry and approval, particularly on horticultural crops. Organic growing and pest control in areas or crops where no pesticides may be used necessitate the use of biological pest control methods. Use of beneficial insects with careful use of a few selective insecticides as Integrated Crop Management (ICM) can result in excellent sustainable pest management at minimal cost.

Biological control with parasitoids, predators and pathogens is a vitally important element within a full Integrated Pest Management (IPM) programme. Cultural control including good hygiene, the environment (as affected by temperatures, humidity, ventilation, watering and spacing), use of ground cover materials, weed control, crop monitoring and recording from sticky traps should be the first step in an IPM programme.

A basic understanding of pest identification, biology and recognition of plant damage symptoms is useful and will be gained with experience. Biocontrol agents invariably work better as a preventative measure or when introduced at the very first sign of pest damage. Selective IPM compatible pesticides that can be used to prevent pest damage are available for use within a complete programme.

A number of beneficial insects feed on a wider host range than indicated - and may be effective at controlling pests not mentioned here.

The use of broad spectrum pesticides such as synthetic pyrethroids should be avoided if biological control is being used, and for up to 10 weeks before starting an IPM programme.

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