Aphids

Aphids Control Canada

Aphids are a major challenge in a variety of crop sand can cause significant problems. Some aphids can transfer toxins to vegetables and cause allergic reactions in the plants. There is also a risk of aphids transmitting specific viruses within the greenhouse environment. Given these problems, effective control of aphids is paramount in vegetable production. To combat this, Royal Brinkman Canada offers a wide range of specialized biological products. These products are designed to provide effective and targeted aphid control in professional greenhouse horticulture. 

Types of aphids for natural pest control

Common aphid species in greenhouse crops include the cotton aphid (Aphis gossypii), buttercup aphid (Aulacorthum solani), potato aphid (Macrosiphum euphorbiae) and green peach aphid (Myzus persicae). Each aphid species requires a different approach to biological control because of their unique characteristics. Some aphids can introduce toxins into plants, causing allergic reactions, while others can transmit viruses, underscoring the importance of aphid control. 

Organic aphid control in greenhouse 

Natural predators are essential in controlling aphids within greenhouse ornamental cultivation, with parasitic wasps being a widely employed solution. These wasps possess the ability to detect aphids in crops before they become visible, making them a highly effective preventive measure. Aphids, which are lacking defenses against these parasitic wasps, are vulnerable to their control. Royal Brinkman Canada offers a range of natural enemies tailored for aphid management in greenhouse ornamental cultivation, including: 

> Aphidius colemani (Aphiline): Used for aphid control, these wasps parasitize aphids by laying eggs within them. The resulting empty mummies may impact ornamental value in some crops but are inconsequential in ornamental crops. 
> Aphidius ervi (Erviline): Employed for aphid control, these wasps parasitize aphids by drilling a hole in them and laying eggs, leading to the emergence of new parasitic wasps. 
> Adalia Bipunctata (Adaline B): Is a predatory bug. Adaline B is recommended for treatment of aphid hot spots because of its ability to quickly reduce established aphid colonies. Both larvae and adults of Adalia will actively search the plants for the pests. 
> Aphelinus abdominalis (APHELIcontrol): Is a small wasp that stings and parasitizes young stages of aphids. It is a relatively long-lived species, so it is a good complement to the release of Aphiline and/or Erviline because it helps with longer-term control.
> Aphidoletes aphidimyza (APHIDOcontrol): This predatory midge lays its eggs in aphid colonies and the predatory larvae then attack and feed on the aphid prey. The larvae of Aphidoletes aphidimyza feed on more than 60 different species of aphids.

Effective Aphid Control for Tomato Plants

Aphids are a major threat to tomato plants, weakening them by sucking sap and potentially transmitting viruses. Biological control is the most effective and sustainable approach. Beneficial insects such as Aphidius colemani (parasitic wasps) and Aphidoletes aphidimyza (predatory gall midges) help to naturally suppress aphid populations. For best results, release these biocontrol agents early in the season before aphid populations become severe. By integrating these strategies, tomato growers can protect their crops while minimizing chemical use.

Benefits of Biological Control Aphids

Biological control of aphids offers multiple advantages: 

✔️ Efficient searching behavior: Natural enemies effectively locate aphids, even in challenging areas and under low pest pressure. 
✔️  Greedy appetite: Biological control agents, especially larvae, often eliminate more aphids than are needed to feed themselves. 
✔️  Preventive use (certain species): Some species can be used preventively, maintaining low pest pressure by having the pest controller already present in the greenhouse. 
✔️  Impact on other pests: Some biological controls can target multiple pests, not just aphids. 
✔️  No chemical residue: The use of biological control methods ensures that there are no chemical residues on the plant. 

Buy Aphid Biocontrol Products  

Looking to buy aphid control products? In our online store you can quickly and easily order the aphid control products you need. Do you have any questions about the use of organic aphid control products or how to control aphids in your greenhouse? Please contact one of our crop protection specialists.