How to treat a greenhouse before planting for ticks? - briefly
Apply a registered acaricide to all surfaces, eliminate plant debris, seal cracks, and ensure proper ventilation and temperature control before sowing. Finish by spreading diatomaceous earth around the greenhouse perimeter to deter tick presence.
How to treat a greenhouse before planting for ticks? - in detail
A greenhouse that will host a new crop must be cleared of tick habitats before planting. Residual plant debris, standing water, and untreated soil provide refuge for immature stages, allowing populations to surge once crops are introduced.
Begin with a thorough removal of all organic material. Sweep floors, prune away dead foliage, and discard any compost that has not been heat‑treated. Wash walls, benches, and irrigation equipment with a detergent solution, then rinse with clean water. Allow surfaces to dry completely before proceeding.
Soil preparation is critical. Remove the top 5 cm of existing substrate, then either replace it with a sterile medium or subject the remaining soil to a heat treatment of 60 °C for at least 30 minutes. Incorporate a granular acaricide labeled for greenhouse use at the manufacturer’s recommended rate, ensuring even distribution throughout the root zone. If chemical use is restricted, apply a biological control such as entomopathogenic nematodes (e.g., Steinernema feltiae) following the product instructions.
Install physical barriers to prevent tick entry. Seal cracks in the structure, fit fine mesh screens on ventilation openings, and place sticky traps around the perimeter to capture wandering adults. Maintain low humidity by adjusting irrigation schedules and using dehumidifiers where necessary, as ticks thrive in moist environments.
Implement a monitoring regime. Inspect plants weekly for attached ticks, especially on lower leaves and stems. Record findings and adjust control measures promptly. Rotate any chemical treatments according to label restrictions to avoid resistance buildup.
Finally, document all actions—cleaning dates, soil amendments, barrier installations, and monitoring results. This record supports traceability and facilitates future greenhouse preparations.