The persistent challenge of whitefly infestations in gerbera cultivation has prompted innovative collaboration between industry experts, resulting in the successful development of a new pheromone-based monitoring system. This groundbreaking solution, pioneered by HortiPro in partnership with EveryD Flowers and Van Iperen, offers promise for Integrated Crop Management by significantly curtailing the threat of whitefly outbreaks.
The whitefly, an unwelcome guest in gerbera plants, has historically posed a recurring problem for growers. While biological control methods hold potential, the arsenal of available remedies has gradually diminished. In the face of this challenge, Eric Kerklaan of HortiPro, encouraged by Van Iperen, engaged in discussions over coffee with EveryD Flowers in De Lier.
HortiPro, renowned for its specialization in biological crop protection, adjuvants, and pheromone technology, embarked on a mission to identify a collaborator grappling with whitefly issues. This collaboration aimed to develop an effective control strategy, culminating in the creation of a new pheromone. This innovative step marks a significant stride towards the realization of comprehensive Integrated Crop Management.
Following approximately a year of rigorous testing, meticulous counting, and vigilant scouting, the endeavor bore fruit. The newly devised pheromone, comprising the PheroDes monitoring system for greenhouse whiteflies and PheroBem for monitoring Bemisia (tobacco whitefly), is poised to debut in the market by year-end. A notable distinction is that this breakthrough was conceptualized and forged within the precincts of EveryD Flowers, through a harmonious collaboration between Eric Kerklaan and Lennart Simonse of HortiPro on one side, and Hen Groenewegen and Marian van Bergenhenegouwen of EveryD Flowers on the other – a testament to the mutual benefits derived.
The application method involves pipetting the pheromone onto an absorbent material strip, which is then enclosed within a dispenser. The dispenser incorporates a tiny aperture through which the pheromone gradually evaporates. This unit is then housed within a 14 mm orifice on a yellow sticky trap, luring adult whiteflies. The outcome is a substantial reduction in the whitefly population, marking a significant departure from the previous apprehension caused by the presence of 100 whiteflies on a sticky trap. This innovation is particularly relevant for the control of Bemisia tabaci, a more challenging variant of whitefly, for which this solution offers newfound relief.
Hen and Marian, the grower and crop protection specialist respectively, share their insights, “Recent years have taught us valuable lessons. Intensified scouting practices have enabled us to detect pests early, granting us a clearer understanding of the airborne threats. This proactive approach has placed us in a more advantageous position, reducing our lag time and enhancing the effectiveness of our interventions. As a result, we’ve substantially reduced our reliance on chemicals in favor of eco-friendly alternatives.”
However, the success story does come with a caveat – one must remain vigilant. Eric underscores, “Pheromones can establish a robust foundation for a sound crop protection strategy, but vigilance is paramount. Consistent and systematic monitoring, counting, and scouting are crucial. Consistency, rather than sporadic efforts, is the key. Maintaining this diligence is imperative; even when you believe you’ve eradicated an issue, letting your guard down could result in setbacks.”
The culmination of this collaborative endeavor underscores the transformative power of merging expertise from various quarters, ultimately yielding a pioneering solution that not only mitigates challenges but also underscores the vital role of sustained vigilance in horticultural success.