Investing in a greenhouse is one of the best ways to limit the access that pests have to your plants. Structural pest control goes a long way in preventing plant loss to birds, deer and other animals that like to munch on greens, but a greenhouse also can help with insects and bugs.

Some of the trickiest pests are the smallest ones, the aphids, spider mites and thrips that can enter your greenhouse undetected with a new batch of transplants. You can make the most of your greenhouse to limit the damage pests and can do and even prevent them from entering your structure. Here are three ways:

Biosecurity Block and Capture

Installing fine mesh screens on your air circulation systems is one of the best ways to promote pest control. These screens need to be cleaned frequently to ensure that airflow is not hindered by pest collection. Some greenhouses also add a vestibule or an airlock to the entrance to allow for clean entry, capturing pests before they enter the main greenhouse.

You can also strategically place sticky cards around your structure to ensure that, as soon as something is taking flight in your greenhouse, you see evidence of it.

Climate Control

Another good measure against pests is your airflow and humidity settings on your digital control panel. Greenhouses with slower-moving air and a higher level of humidity will see more pests. The right ventilation, temperature and humidity prevent the growth of fungal conditions that attract pests. It also keeps your plants at their optimal health so that they are more resistant to attacks from pests.

Design

The layout and design of your greenhouse are important, and pest control should be considered in your planning stages. For instance, your irrigation systems should be designed to prevent overwatering, which encourages fungus growth.

In addition, you will want to plan your plant layout so that it allows for segmentation and quarantine if you need to apply focused pest control measures. Isolation can prevent the spread of pests to healthy plants in other areas of your greenhouse.

Your pest control requirements depend heavily upon your environment and climate, the plants you are growing and the type of greenhouse you install. To discuss the right measures for your growing conditions, contact us at Stuppy Greenhouse. We look forward to talking with you!