Proper Release of Biological Control Agents

Biological control is a key part of managing pest populations in cannabis production. While it is extremely important to conduct regular scouting and know the appropriate control methods to tackle your target pest populations it does not guarantee a successful biological control program.

It is important to check the quality of the product you are receiving from the insectary: 

• Are the biologicals alive? 
• Are they of good quality and form? 
• Were they stored and shipped properly? 

There are countless stories of producers who received product that was sub-optimal, and their IPM programs suffered as a result. By checking the quality of every shipment you receive from your insectary, you are one step closer to a successful biological control program. This does not guarantee that the product will be high quality, but you will be able to salvage the situation. Contact the insectary, voice your concerns, and be prepared to put in another order of biologicals. The alternative? Vast amounts of time and money spent on a program that is not working effectively, and a crop infested with pests.

Now that you know that your biologicals are in good form, it is time to release them! Knowing where in the crop to place them, how to properly store them, and the best way to handle the insect housing, are all important to maximize pest control. OMAFRA and the team at Vineland Research and Innovation Centre got together to talk about the proper release of biological controls. Click the following link to watch the video and see how your practices hold up!

Posted by: Talia Plaskett