Seaweed Extract a Viable Organic Defense Against Spider Mites?

Recent research by the Holden Research & Consulting Company suggests that brown seaweed extract is a viable defense in controlling Thrips and Persea Mites.  Further reference indicates that spider mites were controlled using Ascophyllum nodosum extract on strawberries, chrysanthemum and cucumbers.

Thrips cause damage to vegetables, fruits, and flowers and are found worldwide.  They directly damage crops by feeding, vectoring viruses, and may also cause respiratory and skin irritation to field workers. Effectively managing thrips and mites with non-toxic materials has proven to be one of the most challenging aspects of pest control.  A commercial extract from the brown seaweed Ascophyllum nodosum, reduced Avocado Thrips (Scirtothrips perseae) numbers by 68% compared to the control, in field-grown Hass avocado trees.  Read more…..

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