| Other Community Practices |
"Biological Control (View photos of natural enemies) The most significant aphid predators are several species of lady beetles, including Hippodamia convergens and Coccinella septempunctata that attack and consume both the blue alfalfa and pea aphid species. Green lacewings can also be important in regulating aphids and many other predators including bigeyed bugs (Geocoris spp.), damsel bugs (Nabis spp.), and syrphid fly larvae also play a role. Aphidius smithi and A. ervi are parasites of alfalfa aphids. Large golden-brown aphid mummies on the upper surfaces of leaves indicate parasitization. When a high level of parasitization is present, carefully consider the need to apply insecticides for aphids. Parasites frequently provide adequate control. A naturally occurring fungal disease, which is most prevalent during cool, rainy, or foggy weather, may also control aphids. Organically Acceptable Methods The use of resistant varieties, biological control, and cultural control are acceptable to use on an organically certified crop. Organically certified insecticides such as azadirachtin (Neemix), neem oil (Trilogy), and pyrethrin (PyGanic) are registered for use on alfalfa to control aphids. Studies conducted in California, however, have shown that at best they provide slight suppression of aphids but do not control them." http://ipm.ucanr.edu/PMG/r1302311.html |
Honey Bee Network Knowledge & Innovation Database (HBNKIND)