Mealybug is becoming an increasing problem in greenhouse vegetable crops. Mealybug has been a persistent challenge in some ornamentals, partly due to the unavailability of broad spectrum agents. To gain more insight into the problem Biobest has made an inventory by conducting a survey in cooperation with LTO Glaskracht Nederland. 90 growers have responded to the survey. Visits have also been made to about ten growers.
Mealybugs are found year round. The impairment level is not always limited to the source; it can also be found in the entire greenhouse when the pest is detected too late and dispersion has already taken place. Two types of harmful mealybugs were found: Pseudococcus viburni in peppers, eggplants and tomatoes and Phenacoccus solani in peppers. Hygiene and timely detection remain the first steps towards eradicating this pest.
Unfortunately, there is still little experience with biological control in greenhouse vegetables. Eradication is difficult. Vegetable growers are looking for effective biological solutions. Maybe new insights will be gained from the Mealybug and Scale master plan that is currently taking place in floriculture under the coordination of LTO Glaskracht Nederland.
Download the report (in Dutch) on the website of LTO Glaskracht Nederland.
