5/13/11

Greenhouse Insect Pests

The warmer temperature and enclosed shelter of the greenhouse can often be inviting for pests. Good housekeeping practices can reduce the risk of an invasion. Early detection and identification of pests can help in maintaining a healthy environment.
  • Whiteflies

    • Whiteflies not only damage plants by sucking the sap from the foliage, but they also may bring disease into the greenhouse. Whiteflies secrete a sticky substance called "honeydew" onto the plant. The honeydew, which itself is not harmful, facilitates a sooty mold that can stunt the growth of the plant. Introduction of a parasitic wasp can help combat a whitefly invasion.

    Aphids

    • Aphids are small, soft-bodied, sap-feeding insects that favor tender, young growth. They are often called greenflies or blackflies. Most aphids tend to colonize and can be found in clusters on the foliage and stems of plants. Like whiteflies, aphids produce "honeydew," leading to the development of sooty mold.

    Thrips

    • Thrips attack a wide range of plants. They are small, elongated, cylindrical insects, that range in color from light brown to black. They feed in large numbers on leaves, flowers and buds, causing a silvery mottling and some distortion. Predatory mites may be introduced to the greenhouse to control thrips.

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