Practice abstract 3: Agronomic and ecological practices for improving pest management

This project supports farmers in managing pests naturally through cover crops, companion planting, and ant management in citrus, apple, and tomato crops. In citrus orchards, a new cover crop developed under the LIFE “Vida for Citrus” project is being tested and compared with standard grass covers. These crops provide food and shelter for beneficial insects that prey on harmful pests. The study evaluates their impact on natural enemy releases, pest damage levels, and the health and effectiveness of beneficial insect populations. In apple orchards, various companion plants are planted alongside apple trees, combined with different nitrogen fertilizer levels, since nitrogen affects companion plant growth and competitiveness. The aim is to reduce aphid populations by attracting more natural enemies such as ladybugs and parasitic wasps. The project monitors aphid density, natural enemy diversity, and how plant–fertilizer combinations influence pest control. Ants, which often protect pests like aphids by farming them for honeydew, are being managed using cover crops and sugar feeders to divert their attention. Flower strips along orchard edges further disrupt the ant–aphid relationship, enhancing biological control and potentially improving yields. In tomato crops, companion plants support populations of Typhlodromus recki, a predatory mite that feeds on pests such as whiteflies, mites, and the tomato leafminer. Trials explore different companion plant densities, spatial arrangements, and added food sources to optimize predator performance and reduce pest damage. The project includes the creation of practical guides for farmers, outlining methods for implementing cover crops, companion planting, and ant management. These resources aim to promote effective natural pest control, reduce reliance on pesticides, and safeguard crop yields and quality