How should greenhouse soil be treated against ticks? - briefly
Apply a layer of food‑grade diatomaceous earth and introduce entomopathogenic nematodes (e.g., Steinernema feltiae) into the growing medium, then rotate crops and periodically solarize the soil to suppress tick populations. Use targeted acaricide treatments only when monitoring shows infestation levels exceed economic thresholds.
How should greenhouse soil be treated against ticks? - in detail
Treating greenhouse substrate to eliminate tick infestations requires a systematic approach that combines sanitation, cultural adjustments, biological agents, and, when necessary, chemical interventions.
First, remove all plant debris, fallen leaves, and organic waste from the growing medium. These materials provide shelter and food for tick larvae. Replace or sterilize the soil by steaming at 100 °C for at least 30 minutes, or by applying a high‑temperature solarization cycle of 6–8 weeks during the hottest months. Both methods destroy eggs and immature stages while preserving soil structure.
Second, modify growing conditions to make the environment hostile to ticks. Maintain humidity levels below 60 % and ensure adequate ventilation to reduce micro‑climates where ticks thrive. Implement a watering schedule that avoids excess moisture on the soil surface; drip irrigation or bottom‑watering are preferable to overhead sprays.
Third, introduce biological control agents that prey on tick stages. Beneficial nematodes (e.g., Steinernema carpocapsae and Heterorhabditis bacteriophora) can be applied as a soil drench at a concentration of 10 million infective juveniles per square meter. These nematodes locate and kill larvae and nymphs without harming plants. Entomopathogenic fungi such as Beauveria bassiana may also be incorporated as a granular formulation, providing a persistent fungal layer in the substrate.
Fourth, use physical barriers and inert amendments. A thin layer (5–10 mm) of diatomaceous earth spread over the soil surface creates a desiccating barrier that damages tick exoskeletons upon contact. Similarly, adding coarse sand or perlite improves drainage and reduces the likelihood of tick survival.
Fifth, if monitoring indicates a persistent infestation, apply targeted acaricides approved for greenhouse use. Select products with low phytotoxicity, such as pyrethrin‑based sprays or spinosad granules, and follow label‑specified rates (typically 0.5–1 g m⁻²). Rotate active ingredients to prevent resistance development.
Finally, establish a regular inspection routine. Examine plants and substrate weekly for tick presence, focusing on the undersides of leaves and the soil surface. Record findings and adjust the integrated management plan accordingly.
By integrating sanitation, environmental control, biological agents, physical barriers, and judicious chemical use, greenhouse soil can be effectively managed to suppress tick populations and protect crop health.