A novel approach to thrips management in strawberries is being investigated through the use of alyssum companion plants to support biological control. The trial, managed by ADAS in a commercial strawberry crop in the UK, is evaluating whether alyssum can enhance the effectiveness of natural enemies used to control thrips.
Thrips are a major pest in strawberry production, causing bronzing and blotching damage that can lead to significant crop losses. Current biological control programmes rely mainly on predatory mites and the predatory bug Orius laevigatus, but increasing problems with other thrips species have highlighted the need for additional IPM solutions.
Researchers are exploring the potential of alyssum as both a trap plant, attracting thrips away from strawberries, and a banker plant, providing pollen and habitat for beneficial insects such as Orius laevigatus. By supporting natural enemy populations, alyssum may help improve biological control and strengthen integrated pest management strategies.
If successful, the approach could allow growers to incorporate alyssum throughout their crops, improving pest management while potentially reducing labour costs associated with releasing beneficial insects. The trial highlights the potential of companion planting to support more sustainable thrips control in strawberries and could encourage wider adoption across the UK and Europe.
