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Mesh crop covers for pest control including tomato potato psyllid (TPP)

This is the main page for the extensive research and extension work undertaken at the FFC on mesh crop covers.  This started as trying to find an organic / non chemical solution to controlling tomato potato psyllid (TPP) on field potatoes but quickly morphed into a series of serendipitous discoveries including that mesh crop covers inhibit potato blight, directly boost potato yield through blocking UV light and modifying crop microclimate, plus that TPP are highly responsive to UV.  Mesh proved vastly more effective and profitable for TPP control on potatoes than chemicals.  This resulted in mesh covers being commercially available in Aotearoa New Zealand and thus being available to control a wide range of pests on field vegetables and perennial crops.  There is also general background information on mesh crop covers and their use and also how to purchase from the BHU Organic Trust’s webshop ‘The Organic Store‘

The use of UV-A light insect traps for TPP control and monitoring in glasshouses

Research discovering that tomato potato psyllid (TPP) is highly attracted to ultraviolet light, and looking at its potential as a means of monitoring and controlling TPP in protected cropping.