Pest Scouting and Sanitation Tips for Inside the Greenhouse

In a recent e-Gro Alert, Beth Scheckelhoff of The Ohio State University looks at cost-effective steps to prevent problems in your greenhouse produce structures through proper scouting and sanitation during this spring. Here’s some of the advice she has to offer: 

Best Practices for Pest Identification, Prevention, and Management in Spring

Scouting, when paired with cultural and sanitation practices, can help reduce or prevent future problems that greenhouse and nursery operations face, and in turn, retailers and consumers. Scheckelhoff states that “Preventing issues today can greatly reduce future headaches and expenses needed to resolve the issues,” and offers the following guidelines to create the most stress-free production season possible. 

Be Aware of Hitchhiking Pests 

Scheckelhoff notes that many pests can essentially hitchhike their way into a grower’s operation by climbing into or embedding themselves within certain equipment and materials that are transported inside, including containers, growing media substrates, and plant parts. 

Therefore, it’s important to first quarantine and then inspect new containers and plant material. Additionally, there is also a risk of this happening with old containers, as some pests can overwinter under the right conditions. 

The Importance of Sanitizing Hard Surfaces 

Lingering organic debris can be highly attractive to pests (and with them diseases) and weeds, including plant waste, potting soil, and standing water. Keeping any and all hard surfaces clean is an important preventive measure of greenhouse management. 

For more on pest scouting in the greenhouse, continue reading at CEAgWorld.com.