How to fight ticks in a greenhouse on cucumbers? - briefly
Monitor plants daily, remove any leaf showing mites, and treat confirmed infestations with a labeled acaricide applied at the recommended intervals. Keep greenhouse humidity below 70 % and maintain strong airflow to suppress mite reproduction.
How to fight ticks in a greenhouse on cucumbers? - in detail
Effective management of tick infestations in cucumber production under glass requires a systematic approach that combines preventive measures, regular monitoring, and targeted interventions. The following components constitute a comprehensive strategy.
First, maintain strict sanitation. Remove plant debris, fallen leaves, and any organic material that can harbor ticks. Clean benches, walkways, and drainage channels weekly. Disinfect tools and containers with a suitable sanitizer before each use.
Second, implement cultural practices that reduce tick habitat. Space cucumber plants to ensure adequate airflow, limiting humidity levels that favor tick development. Adjust irrigation to avoid excessive moisture on the substrate; drip systems are preferable to overhead sprinklers. Rotate crops annually, replacing cucumbers with non‑host species such as lettuce or herbs.
Third, conduct systematic scouting. Inspect the undersides of leaves, stems, and fruit at least twice a week. Use a hand lens to detect early instar stages. Record the location and density of infestations to guide treatment decisions.
Fourth, employ biological agents. Introduce predatory mites (e.g., Neoseiulus cucumeris) and entomopathogenic nematodes that attack tick eggs and larvae. Apply commercially available formulations according to label instructions, repeating applications every 7–10 days during peak activity.
Fifth, consider chemical controls only when thresholds are exceeded. Select acaricides approved for greenhouse use on cucumbers, such as abamectin or spinosad. Rotate active ingredients to prevent resistance. Apply the product as a fine spray covering the entire plant canopy, observing the recommended pre‑harvest interval.
Sixth, modify the microclimate. Install ventilation fans to lower relative humidity below 70 % and maintain temperatures between 20–25 °C, conditions less favorable for tick reproduction. Use reflective mulches to reduce soil warming, which can deter egg laying.
Seventh, use physical barriers. Cover seed trays and young seedlings with fine mesh that excludes adult ticks. Seal all entry points—doors, vents, and cracks—with insect‑proof screens.
Finally, adopt an integrated pest management (IPM) framework. Combine the above tactics, evaluate their effectiveness regularly, and adjust the plan based on monitoring data. Documentation of each action ensures traceability and facilitates continuous improvement.