Pests of Hydroponics
Hydroponically grown plants rely on nutrients gleaned from mineral nutrient solutions and water. Soil is left out of the growing equation entirely. Like all ways of growing plants and vegetables, hydroponics have their positives and negatives. Does this Spark an idea?
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Misconceptions
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Many falsely believe that hydroponics are immune from pests. This belief is based on the fact that hydroponics are grown without soil. Since insects often live in soil, people often believe they have eliminated this nuisance. The controlled environment also often leads people to believe that bacteria and molds will not form. While the types of pests one must deal with may differ, hydroponics are still subject to a number of pests. The lack of environmental checks often leaves plants even more susceptible.
Types
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Insects are a problem for hydroponics when proper preventative care is not taken. According to the University of Arizona, early hydroponics were ravaged by a range of pests. These included pin worms, white flies, leaf miners, nematodes, leaf mold and bacterial wilt. Root rot and other root disease were also an issue. Hydroponics may still be attacked by these pests if not watched over carefully.
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Solutions
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According to the University of Arizona, the main solution to this problem came with the introduction of drain solution sterilization. This is achieved by heat treatment, ultraviolet radiation and ozone. Since most pesticides are not approved for use in a greenhouse, integrated pest management is often used to kill unwanted insects. For instance, the parasitic wasp Encarsia formosa is used to combat white flies.
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References
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