The latest innovations in biological control for early pepper crops
There are always a few topics that dominate conversations whenever growers get together. This year, two stand out above the rest: Thrips parvispinus and Scirtothrips. These emerging pests are creating new challenges and forcing growers to rethink how they protect their crops from the very beginning.
To address these concerns, Agrobío brought together more than 500 agricultural professionals this spring in Berja and Adra for its technical events, “The most innovative biological control for early pepper crops.” Once again, the strong turnout highlighted the sector’s interest in effective tools and field-proven solutions.
Growers, technicians, and industry professionals attended to learn what is working against these new challenges and how to prepare for the upcoming season. Among the most anticipated topics was the presentation of Agrobío’s latest innovations: ORIcontrol COLD-R and MEGAcontrol.
From research to the greenhouse
During the events, Estefanía Rodríguez (IFAPA La Mojonera), together with Agrobío specialists Ana B. Arévalo and Mar del Mar Rodríguez, shared field experience and practical recommendations. The focus was on two of the most pressing pests currently affecting early pepper crops: Thrips parvispinus and Scirtothrips.
The speakers emphasized the importance of staying one step ahead of the pest through the early establishment of beneficial insects. To achieve this, they highlighted preventive strategies supported by tools such as POWERfood 3.0, ORIcontrol COLD-R, predatory mites, and MEGAcontrol.
Spider mite control in early pepper crops
In addition, spider mite management also featured prominently during the events. Attendees learned about different biological control strategies based on predatory mites and the innovative PHYTOplus (Phytoseiulus persimilis). They also discovered recent improvements made to Agrobío’s rearing systems.
This is also the case with APHIDOcontrol (Aphidoletes aphidimyza), developed to further expand the range of tools available for aphid control.
Beyond the presentations
If there is one thing that defines these events, it is that the conversation does not end when the presentations are over.
During the networking cocktail that followed, many attendees took the opportunity to exchange experiences, ask questions, and discuss the situation in their crops with Agrobío’s technical team. It is a perfect example of one of the company’s core values: staying close to growers and providing continuous support in the field.
Because innovation is not only about developing new solutions. It is also about listening, understanding the challenges each season brings, and working side by side with growers to help them overcome them.