This is a Power Point presented in Oregon in January, 2010:

Getting Started with Beneficial Insects 2010

Here are a few sample slides:

Starting with Biocontrols or Stopping with Chemicals?

  • What we are really talking about is stopping, or reducing the use of chemical pesticides.
  • Bio-controls are the natural and “normal” method of controlling pests.
  • Chemical pesticides are basically a 20th Century, temporary solution

Why Reduce Using Chemical Pesticides?

  • The Government is removing some for public safety reasons.
  • The Chemical industry is reducing the number of chemicals available due to registration costs.
  • Inappropriate use is leading to resistance
  • The active ingredient, or the solvents used can cause physical damage to the plants.
  • To apply chemicals legally, re-entry times may disrupt your operation.
  • For your employees, and your own health.

The Awful Truth

  • What you are trying to do is natural, but you are working with unnatural conditions in an unnatural time frame
  • You cannot afford to let nature “take its course”
  • You are working with some of the harshest environments on earth
  • Your budget is being reduced, as we speak
  • You can’t keep doing what you are doing
  • Your customers are not sympathetic and expect healthy, insect free plants

The New Reality

  • IPM is a proven system
  • Many Gardens, such as Kew in England and Butchart in Canada, are featuring Beneficial Insects as part of the show
  • Children are learning about Beneficial Insects in school, they will be expecting you to be using them when they become your customers

Small Beginnings

  • Start with a specific problem
  • Involve all of your staff
  • Get outside help, make your supplier “buy into” the project
  • Pick something that Chemicals can’t do well

Spider Mite Predator – Amblyseius fallacis

  • Predatory mite that controls every pest mite
  • Persists outdoors
  • Alternate food is pollen
  • Best control for Bamboo mite, European Red mite
  • Excellent results in Mint in Montana, Bamboo in Oregon, Spruce in Washington, Cedar in B.C., Greenhouse Tomatoes in New England