Two popular approaches to pest control are knockdown and prevention. Both aim to reduce pest pressure, but they differ in timing and strategy, and they often work in sequence. Knockdowns are used when pest pressure is active and needs to be reduced quickly, often with natural products like neem oil applied directly to the plant. Because sprays only reach the parts of the problem, curative biologicals, such as bottle-applied beneficials, are introduced afterward to target lingering pests and prevent a resurgence in population. From there, prevention takes over: slow-release sachets are introduced to maintain steady beneficial presence and keep pest pressure from building back up.
A strong preventative program from the start, before any pest problems are visible, can reduce or even eliminate the need for knockdown and curative strategies altogether. This includes consistent scouting and early introduction of slow-release sachets to establish beneficials before pests gain a foothold. When beneficials are present from the beginning and monitoring is routine, pest pressure often stays low enough that intervention isn’t needed.
KO In Round One
Even a meticulous grower can experience a significant rise in pest pressure at some point. When it happens, the situation needs to be addressed immediately. Lowering the pressure is the number one priority, eliminating pests to limit the damage done ASAP.
Harsh chemical sprays like permethrins work fast, but they’re indiscriminate. They kill everything on the plant, including beneficials, and can leave behind residues that disrupt the growing environment. These sprays may require protective gear or re-entry intervals, are often not safe for pets or people, and can interfere with the survival and effectiveness of beneficials.
A more targeted alternative is using a natural essential oil like neem as a knockdown. Neem reduces pest pressure without wiping out the entire ecosystem, but it can be phytotoxic if overapplied or used under certain conditions. Beneficials are highly effective on their own and can be used independently when pressure is low or with guidance. They can also be used cooperatively with knockdown sprays. For example, a neem spray can be applied first to reduce pressure, followed by curative beneficials to clean up lingering pests—a one-two punch. Once the immediate threat is under control, slow-release sachets can be introduced to maintain beneficial populations and prevent future outbreaks.
The broad impact of harsh chemical sprays, including their disruption of beneficials, safety concerns, and contribution to resistance, can make long-term pest management more difficult and ultimately back you into a corner. Even if harsh products have been part of your routine, it’s never too late to bring back natural controls. If you’re currently using chemicals to manage pest pressure, reach out via our live chat (bottom right corner of the site). We’ll guide you through making the switch—step by step.
Conditioning Over Time
Looking to the future, keeping pest pressure low is all about consistency. Prevention is a steady, proactive game plan that lasts over time. This includes using slow-release sachets of beneficial insects, isolating new plants, regularly inspecting foliage, and maintaining good growing practices. While prevention can significantly reduce pest issues, knockdowns may still be necessary depending on environmental factors and beneficial input levels.
Isarid™ Mycoinsecticide is a biological tool that fits into both curative and preventative strategies. It is applied as a spray or drench and requires high humidity for its spores to activate. Once active the spores infect pests either through direct contact or ingestion during feeding. Isarid can be used to suppress active pest populations and to intercept future outbreaks. It is safe to use in combination with beneficials, making Isarid a flexible option for managing pest pressure in greenhouses, high-humidity outdoor settings, or controlled indoor spaces like greenhouse cabinets or garages.
Keep Your Defenses Up
A complementary tactic is to keep plants healthy and strong so they’re resilient to pests and pathogens. Adding soil enhancements, like the natural rhizobacteria in Microflora SA, fortifies the plant by boosting biome health and armoring the roots to keep out bad bacteria. Amending the soil is an effective, low-cost prevention method that works.
Additional tools like Continuµm™, Dune™, and Lumina™ support this foundation.
- Continuµm™ delivers a co-culture of beneficial bacteria that colonize the root zone, unlock nutrients, and help plants stay vigorous or rebound from environmental pressures.
- Dune™ supplies plant-available silicon to reinforce cell walls and help plants stand taller and tougher.
- Lumina™ provides bioavailable amino acids that support quick, gentle comebacks after stress.
