Protecting your valuable cannabis crop with biocontrol

Growing cannabis on a large scale is a considerable investment, so producers often opt for a comprehensive preventive and curative approach. Cannabis is prone to various pests, especially thrips, spider mite and a number of different aphid species.

‘Our biological product range covers all the major pest and diseases and we have biostimulants that strengthen and protect the root systems, so we recommend a holistic approach,’ says Van Santen. ‘With up to 6 crop cycles possible under artificial illumination per year, the need for total crop protection is a priority for growers. Due to the commercial value of the crop and high-density cultivation, growers tend not to take any risks and mainly use a combination of our biological products to prevent and combat both pests and diseases.’

Thrips is one of the most prevalent pests in protected cultivation with high temperatures and low humidity in greenhouses and grow rooms, and requires both preventive as well as curative measures. Koppert’s Swirskii Ulti-Mite sachets fit perfectly in the integrated pest management scheme for this pest. Horiver sticky cards play a useful role for trapping adult thrips, and Entomite takes care of any harmful pupae.

Spider mite is another stubborn problem in cannabis crops and can be both prevented and solved by using Spical Ulti-Mite, Spidex Boost and regular Spidex.

Aphids are probably the most difficult of the pests to address, and are especially prevalent in North America because of the large-scale production. The harmful aphid, Phorodon cannabis, has also recently been found at a number of different production sites in Europe. Koppert is currently running an ongoing research project on this pest and how best to combat it. At present, the most effective biological solution is a combination of different parasitic wasps and Chrysopa eggs. In countries where Mycotal Addit has been registered, this is an effective contact spray when applied early in the growing cycle.

Koppert Biological Systems produces sustainable cultivation solutions for food crops and ornamental plants. Together with growers and in partnership with nature, we work to make agriculture and horticulture healthier, safer, more productive and resilient. We achieve this by using natural enemies to combat pest infestations, bumblebees for natural pollination, and biostimulants that support and strengthen the crops both above and underground. Restoring and protecting vital ecosystems in a natural way is the basis for healthy crops and a balanced environment.

Add our quality know-how and consultancy services to this and you will understand why an increasing number of growers regards us as a partner with whom they can realize their ambitions.