Articles
INSECTS – A HAZARD TO THE PROTEA INDUSTRY
Article number
185_22
Pages
209 – 216
Language
Abstract
A crop which is cultivated in its natural habitat is attacked by a wide spectrum of insects.
The insects on Proteaceae can be divided into three groups according to the damage they cause: (a) flower visitors, some of which cause serious phytosanitary problems (b) leaf feeders and leaf miners (c) borers, including both stem and seed borers.
Natural fynbos which borders on cultivated proteas creates problems with the control of these pests since it serves as a source of re-infestation.
To control this wide spectrum of pests an integrated pest control programme must be developed.
Such a programme should include chemical and biological control, as well as correct cultivation methods.
The use of insecticides should play a subordinate role.
A thorough knowledge of the biology and ecology of the different pests and the effect of the pests on these plants are important requirements for this programme.
Without an efficient pest control programme proteas cannot be cultivated successfully in their natural habitat.
The insects on Proteaceae can be divided into three groups according to the damage they cause: (a) flower visitors, some of which cause serious phytosanitary problems (b) leaf feeders and leaf miners (c) borers, including both stem and seed borers.
Natural fynbos which borders on cultivated proteas creates problems with the control of these pests since it serves as a source of re-infestation.
To control this wide spectrum of pests an integrated pest control programme must be developed.
Such a programme should include chemical and biological control, as well as correct cultivation methods.
The use of insecticides should play a subordinate role.
A thorough knowledge of the biology and ecology of the different pests and the effect of the pests on these plants are important requirements for this programme.
Without an efficient pest control programme proteas cannot be cultivated successfully in their natural habitat.
Publication
Authors
J.H. COETZEE
Keywords
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