How to Control Pests on Grapevines Without Pesticides
Pesticides are a temporary fix for controlling pests on grapevines or any plant. In addition pesticides pose environmental risks due to improper application, drift of pesticides onto non-targeted plants and possible water contamination. However, the risks are not limited to the environment. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency identified 15 commonly-used pesticides as carcinogens. Imported grapes are likely to contain pesticide residue, according to the Environmental Working Group. The risks can be mollified by using consuming domestic produce and using alternative means of control. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Keep grapevines well watered and maintained, especially during drought conditions. Plants stressed due to weather extremes are more susceptible to pest infestation. Remember, prevention is less costly than eradication of a pest.
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Choose grape varieties that do not form clusters close to the base of the shoot. Such plants are more vulnerable to mealy bug infestations. If not possible, try to train the grapevines so that the grapes hang away from the woody vines.
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If pests are suspected, examine the grapevines and grapes for damage. Some pests may cause specific damage that can lead to identification of the problem and thus, possible treatment. Look for the presence of black sooty mold, which can indicate the presence of mealy bugs.
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If present, identify the pest. A magnifying glass may aid in identification. Identification makes it possible to use selective control methods. When possible, use of selective control methods are preferred so as to prevent impact on non-targeted organisms.
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If gray field ants are present, plant common vetch to attract them away from grapevines. The attractive scent will lure ants from the grapevines. Vetch is a legume and will help fix nitrogen in the soil, providing an additional benefit.
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If yellow spotting is present, leafhoppers are attacking the grapevines. Leafhoppers will draw out plant cell contents, leaving yellow spots. Basal leaf removal can prevent infestations.
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Regularly prune grapevines, and remove areas of damage. Plant damage makes grapevines more susceptible to continued infestation and secondary issues such as disease and mold.
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Investigate biological control methods. Though not widely used, biological control methods, such as ladybeetle introduction, have proven successful for control of mealy bugs. Stock may be available at some insectaries.
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Seek genetically-viable varieties as they become available. Researchers at the Fraunhofer Institute for Molecular Biology and Applied Ecology IME report success growing resistant varieties of grapes. As with corn, biotechnology holds promise for alternative pest control.
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Tips & Warnings
Investigate grape varieties prior to planting. Removal can be difficult if a pest infestation causes extensive damage.
