How to treat a greenhouse after ticks appear? - briefly
First, discard any infested plants and treat all surfaces, soil, and equipment with a registered acaricide. Next, introduce predatory mites or other biological agents, reduce humidity, and implement regular inspections to prevent re‑infestation.
How to treat a greenhouse after ticks appear? - in detail
When ticks are discovered in a greenhouse, immediate action prevents spread and protects plants and personnel. Begin with isolation: close doors, seal vents, and restrict entry until treatment starts. Remove all plant material that shows heavy infestation; discard it in sealed bags away from the greenhouse.
Next, conduct a thorough cleaning. Sweep soil surfaces, discard the top 2‑3 cm of substrate, and replace with fresh, sterile media. Vacuum shelves, benches, and floor using a HEPA‑rated unit; empty the canister into a sealed container for disposal. Wash all tools, pots, and trays with a solution of 1 % sodium hypochlorite, rinse, and dry.
Apply a targeted acaricide. Choose a product approved for greenhouse use, such as a pyrethrin‑based spray or a spinosad formulation. Follow label directions precisely: spray foliage, stems, and undersides, then treat soil surface and cracks. Repeat applications at 7‑day intervals for three cycles to interrupt the tick life cycle.
Introduce biological control agents where appropriate. Predatory mites (e.g., Phytoseiulus persimilis) can reduce tick populations when environmental conditions (temperature 20‑30 °C, humidity 60‑80 %) are maintained. Release agents according to supplier recommendations and monitor their activity weekly.
Implement environmental adjustments. Reduce relative humidity below 60 % by increasing ventilation and using dehumidifiers; ticks thrive in moist conditions. Lower temperature to the minimum level compatible with crop growth, as cooler environments slow tick development.
Establish an ongoing monitoring program. Place sticky traps on each aisle and inspect them twice weekly. Record tick counts, identify species, and adjust control measures if numbers rise. Conduct a full inspection of plants and infrastructure before each production cycle.
Finally, train staff. Provide clear instructions on personal protective equipment, safe handling of chemicals, and proper disposal procedures. Maintain a log of all actions, dates, and products used for regulatory compliance and future reference.