December 2025 - Gerbera and Hydrangea
Apr 01, 2026
Why Starting with Biological IPM Early Leads to Cleaner Crops
Some crops are known for being difficult to grow clean using traditional approaches. In the December edition of Koppert Corner, published through GrowerTalks, we focused on how starting with biological IPM from the beginning, what we refer to as “Crop Zero,” can lead to better results in crops like gerbera and hydrangea.
These crops are often associated with recurring pest problems, including thrips and spider mites, which can be difficult to manage once populations are established. Waiting to react after problems appear often leads to repeated treatments and inconsistent results.
Why Starting Early Makes the Difference
In this month’s Koppert Corner, we emphasized that biological control works best when it is implemented at the very beginning of the crop cycle.
Instead of reacting to pest pressure, starting early allows beneficial organisms to establish before pests become a problem. This creates a more balanced system where pest populations are kept low from the start, rather than needing to be reduced later.
Another important factor is resistance. Pests can develop resistance to chemical treatments over time, making control more difficult. Biological solutions avoid this issue, since pests do not develop resistance to natural predators or microbial controls.
Building a Preventative System
A successful biological IPM program combines monitoring, prevention, and targeted control.
Early monitoring plays a key role. Using tools to detect pest activity allows you to respond before damage becomes visible. At the same time, introducing beneficial insects and compatible biological products early helps maintain control as the crop develops.
Supporting plant health is also part of the system. Strengthening the root zone and reducing plant stress allows crops to grow more consistently and better tolerate environmental pressures.
Matching the Approach to the Crop
In this month’s recommendations, we focused on tailoring biological solutions to crop timing and conditions.
For crops grown in cooler seasons, selecting biological controls that remain active in lower temperatures improves consistency. Preventative releases and regular monitoring help maintain control without the need for repeated reactive treatments.
Because gerbera and hydrangea are high-value crops, investing in a preventative approach often leads to better overall results and improved plant quality at finish.
What This Means for You
For growers and retailers, the takeaway is to rethink when pest control begins.
Rather than waiting until problems are visible, starting with a biological approach from day one creates a more stable and predictable system. This reduces the need for corrective treatments and helps maintain cleaner plants throughout the crop cycle.
Even on a smaller scale, adopting this mindset can lead to better long-term results and fewer surprises.
The Bottom Line
The insights shared in Koppert Corner highlight that the most effective pest management strategies begin before problems appear. By starting early, monitoring consistently, and building a balanced biological system, you can produce cleaner, healthier crops with fewer disruptions.
This article is based on the Koppert Corner published in GrowerTalks and adapted for NaturalEnemies.com. To check out the original article, click here: GC Tech Podcast; Bio-IPM Crop Zero; Water Quality + Fertilizer
Want more quick takes from Koppert's Corner on Grower Talks?
Type 3 Predatory Mites - March 2025
Cleaning Up Flowering Tropicals - April 2025
Pesticide Resistance Residues on Garden Mums - May 2025
Prevent Fungus Gnat Larvae - June 2025
Problematic Thrips on Poinsettas - July 2025
Mealybug Tag-team Takedown - August 2025
Preparing Perennials for Winter - October 2025
Just a dip won't do - November 2025
