One of the components of "sustainable" greenhouse crop production can be to minimize the use of pesticides. It is especially important in the production of edible crops, such as tomato and pepper. Yesterday we visited a very impressive, ultra-modern vine tomato producer,
van der Lans in Maasdijk. A representative from one of (if not the) leading biological control companies,
Koppert Biological Control, was on hand to discuss the different ways that predatory mites and insects are used to control pests of tomato. In addition, boxes containing bee hives are placed throughout the greenhouse range, where the bees function to pollinate the tomato flowers.
Biological control has come a long way in the past decade. It was interesting to learn that Koppert is now beginning to look at ways to control root pathogens. Wouldn't it be great -- and sustainable -- if for example naturally occurring bacteria can be added to a growing media to inhibit the activity of pathogens that cause roots to rot? Fortunately, biological control of insect pests is gaining ground, not only in the Netherlands, but also in the production of oranamentals in the U.S. From what I understand, there are still some challenges with the strategy, but as a non-entomologist, I am very optimistic about its future.
Bugs are always a pest wherever I go in the world or even on the planet!!! I like tomatoes with no bugs on it so I'm glad the bees can eat them! Plus it's good for the bees to make more honey. If you think about it, it's amazing to see bees.
ReplyDeleteYou raise some pretty good points about flowers and stuff. One thing I always say is if a man can play many different violins then that's a versatile man. I think versatility is important with respect to sustainability. We have to realize that nothing less than the earth is at risk and we must find a better way! Not to mention a better way to make flowers, too!
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