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High Tunnel Resources for Pest Exclusion, Construction, and Beneficial Insects

Apr 20, 2022

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Insect pests are one of the major problems in organic production systems. Crop damage from insect pests can occur via direct feeding or egg-laying, contamination with feces, or disease transmission; loss in yield or marketability of vegetables in the absence of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) can be nearly 100 percent. Organic IPM practice consists of a three-tiered approach consisting of systems-based practices, mechanical tactics, and biorational insecticides. Mechanical tactics encourage the use of physical barriers for pest exclusion. Some popular pest exclusion tactics include the use of floating row covers for protection against flying insects, bagging fruits, and installing metallic collars around transplants to protect them from cutworms and armyworms. In all these cases, a barrier is created between the insect pest and the host plant for short-term protection.

These resources show research data and field observations about the success of shade cloths as a more permanent barrier system around the high tunnels; this is a high tunnel pest exclusion (HTPE) system that has been developed by Alabama Cooperative Extension at Auburn University, and is an immediately useful technology for small producers in the Southeast. Such modified high tunnels may resemble ‘net houses’ which are sealed structures designed to exclude insect pests. Also, they are designed for keeping beneficials in.

High Tunnel Crop Production/IPM Videos

High Tunnel and Organic IPM Publications

Source : aces.edu

Video: Understanding the Blackleg & Verticillium Connection Webinar

This webinar will explore the emerging connection between blackleg and verticillium stripe in canola, two diseases increasingly shaping yield risk across the Prairies. Presented by Ian Epp of Sask Oilseeds, the session will unpack current research and field observations that highlight how blackleg infection may influence the development and severity of verticillium stripe later in the season.

You will gain insight into disease biology, environmental drivers, and the role of variety selection, rotation, and management decisions in reducing overall disease pressure. The webinar will also connect the dots between early-season disease management and long-term risk, helping growers and agronomists better anticipate challenges and adapt strategies for more resilient canola production.