Where does a tick overwinter in a greenhouse? - briefly
Ticks overwinter in the greenhouse’s cooler, sheltered microhabitats such as leaf litter, soil pockets, and cracks beneath benches or pots. These locations retain enough humidity and moderate temperatures to support their survival.
Where does a tick overwinter in a greenhouse? - in detail
Ticks that survive the colder months inside a greenhouse seek micro‑environments that remain relatively stable in temperature and humidity. The most common sites include:
- Soil and compost layers – the lower strata of growing media retain moisture and are insulated from external temperature fluctuations.
- Leaf litter and plant debris – accumulated organic material creates a humid pocket where nymphs and adult females can remain inactive.
- Cracks and joints in the greenhouse frame – gaps between glazing, support beams, and door seals provide shelter from drafts and direct sunlight.
- Pots and containers – the undersides of trays, the soil surface of potted plants, and the space between pots and shelving can host ticks that drop from vegetation.
- Cloth and mulch coverings – burlap, straw, or synthetic mulches placed over benches or pathways retain moisture and conceal ticks from observation.
These locations share key characteristics: moderate temperature (usually above 5 °C), high relative humidity (≥70 %), and limited disturbance. Ticks typically enter a state of diapause, reducing metabolic activity while awaiting favorable conditions for reactivation in spring.
Understanding these preferred overwintering niches is essential for effective greenhouse pest management. Regular removal of plant litter, sealing structural gaps, and rotating or replacing soil media can disrupt the protective habitats and reduce tick survival rates during the winter period.