Researcher, Ph.D.
450 653-7368
ext 360
Researcher, agr., Ph.D.
450 653-7368
ext 340
This project aims to make better use of orchard inter-rows by planting flower strips consisting of perennial and native plants, and managing them in a way that provides the resources needed by beneficial arthropods and, hence, improved recruitment of pollinators and the natural enemies of pests. This project will develop and assess the planting of flower strips in orchard inter-rows as an alternative to the application of insecticides. It also addresses certain industry priorities, insofar as the development of organic production is a stated objective of the Québec apple industry.
From 2020 to 2023
Project duration
Fruit production
Activity areas
Pest, weed, and disease control
Service
This project will develop the use of flower strips as an alternative to the application of insecticides in orchards.
Ministère de l'Agriculture, des Pêcheries et de l'Alimentation du Québec
Exclusion nets have proven to be effective against nearly all of these insect pests, which means that it’s possible to develop apple growing practices in Québec that are not only neonicotinoid free, but also devoid of all pesticides (including acaricides, given that mite problems are a consequence of broad-spectrum insecticide use). Although the net exclusion microsystem studied in Québec since 2012 has demonstrated its effectiveness in controlling insect pests, some issues remain to be studied before it can be unreservedly recommended. Among these are the handling times for the nets, i.e., installation/removal and opening/closing, and the system’s profitability and durability over the long haul for various cultivars.
Researcher: Mikaël Larose
Effect of mineral oil on Isomate CM/OFM TT dispenser.
Researcher: Daniel Cormier
An attract and kill technique to control plum curculio was recently proposed by U.S. researchers, but it is very little used in orchards and virtually unknown in Québec.
Researcher: Gérald Chouinard