How You Can Use Integrated Pest Management To Produce Organically Grown Greenhouse Crops

Many people believe that growing vegetables, fruits, flowers, and other organic greenhouse production is easy in commercial greenhouses — after all, the structure provides significant protection against insect pests. However, insects eggs are sometimes present in soils and on plant materials that are introduced from outside sources, and insect eggs can even hitch rides on employees' footwear, clothing, and tools. Insects aren't the only threats to greenhouse crops — fungal diseases run rampant in the greenhouse environment. Fortunately, it's still possible to grow greenhouse crops without relying on pesticides or fungicides if you follow the right practices, particularly if you use integrated pest management techniques.  

Integrated pest management involves using a customized set of controls designed to minimize damage caused by insects and fungal pathogens in the greenhouse environment. The exact controls used depend on which insect pests and fungi are common to your area and the types of plants you're growing — some are more susceptible to damage by pests than others. Nonetheless, there are a few universal foundation strategies that apply to almost every crop.

Following is a basic blueprint for using integrated pest management to produce organically grown greenhouse crops. 

Educate Your Employees

The first line of defense against pests and fungal pathogens is a trained staff that can take action designed to eliminate their presence before they become established. For instance, removing infested leaves gets rid of fledgling fungal diseases, and nontoxic insecticidal soap takes care of most early stage insect populations.

Water Wisely

No matter what kind of crop you're growing, practicing wise watering techniques helps keep minimize keep fungal and insect populations at bay. Never overwater, as this may create the kind of standing water situations that certain insects love. Always water in the morning so that foliage is nice and dry by the time night falls. Fungal pathogens thrive in damp, dark conditions. 

Provide Air Circulation 

Air circulation is essential if you're going to win the war on pests and fungal pathogens without resorting to chemical controls. Be sure to leave between six inches to one foot between each plant — when foliage overlaps, it creates the kind of dense environment that encourages insects to make their nests and lay eggs, and it also provides optimal environment for the development of fungal colonies. Greenhouse fans are also recommended because they help keep foliage dry, help keep humidity levels down, and discourage insect pests.  

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