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ARS Home » Southeast Area » Gainesville, Florida » Center for Medical, Agricultural and Veterinary Entomology » Insect Behavior and Biocontrol Research » Research » Publications at this Location » Publication #387685
Research Project: Managing Invasive Weeds and Insect Pests Using Biologically-Based Methods

Location: Insect Behavior and Biocontrol Research

Title: Dual strategy: “push-pull” technology and companion planting to control insect pests

Author
item Legaspi, Jesusa

Submitted to: Meeting Abstract
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: 9/6/2021
Publication Date: N/A
Citation: N/A

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: The common insect pests in vegetable crops are whiteflies, thrips and aphids. To mitigate damage by these pests, a cultural and conservation biocontrol method will be discussed using a strategy combining the use of “push-pull” technology (PPT) and companion planting of flowering plants. PPT refers to use of plants /products as pest repellents and attractants to respectively “push” pests away from a protected crop, and “pull” them into a trap crop where they may be controlled, preferably using biological methods. Flowering plants can be intercropped with target crops to attract beneficial insects. The use of PPT and companion planting in organic leafy greens in a screened and enclosed structure, at Florida A&M University Research and Education Center in Quincy, FL, will be demonstrated to attendees.