Augmentative Biocontrol - Step 2

Step 2: Manage Your Expectations of Augmentative Biocontrol

Overview

Unfortunately, there is no “silver bullet” in pest control. While augmentative biocontrol has the potential to save money in the long run, transitioning to this system requires an initial investment in time and effort. Key considerations for adopting augmentative biocontrol include understanding its complexities, adapting current systems, and starting small.

  • Read, Research, and Network – Gain a solid understanding of the complexities and limitations of augmentative biocontrol (e.g., purchasing demand).
  • Adapt Current Systems – Transitioning to biocontrol will be a stepwise process. Adapt one crop at a time.
  • Start Small – Avoid a drastic shift. Don’t go “cold turkey” on insecticides.

Understand the Limitations of Augmentative Biocontrol

There are several limitations to consider when using augmentative biocontrol, including:

  • Purchasing Demand – What if your area doesn’t have enough purchasing demand for biocontrol agents?
  • Regional Availability – Some biocontrol agents may not be available in your region due to environmental factors, shipping constraints, or regulations.
  • Species-Specific Effectiveness – Not all pests are equally susceptible to biocontrol. Certain pests may not respond to available biocontrol agents, or they may only be partially controlled, requiring supplemental measures.
  • Climate and Environmental Conditions – Biocontrol agents may not thrive in certain environmental conditions, such as extreme temperatures, humidity levels, or fluctuating weather patterns, limiting their effectiveness.
  • Cost and Financial Constraints – While biocontrol can be cost-effective long term, the initial investment in purchasing agents and setting up a new system may be prohibitive for some operations, particularly smaller growers.
  • Slow Response Time – Biocontrol agents often take time to establish and build up populations, meaning that pest control may not be as immediate as with conventional chemical methods.