Floriculture Standard – ONfloriculture

This post was co-written by A. Summerfield (Vineland Research and Innovation Centre) and S. Jandricic.

*Figure 1. Thrips parvispinus is generally dark coloured (though the head and thorax can be lighter than the abdomen), has bright red ocelli and clear patches at the top of its wings.*

Increases in global trade, along with decreased use of harsher broad-spectrum pesticides makes it easier for insect species to move around the world. Because of this, it is becoming more common to find unusual pests coming in on plant material. It’s important that we are prepared and know what to do when something like a new thrips species makes an appearance.

The tropical thrips species Thrips parvispinus has been popping up in various parts of the globe in recent years and was intercepted on plant material in two Ontario greenhouses in 2021/2022. Read on to learn what we know about this species and what you should do if you suspect you have them.

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OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA — Do you have a strategy to help mitigate pests coming into your facility, like dipping cuttings upon receipt?

The CFIA has recently released the Floriculture Sector Biosecurity Guide. Despite it’s imposing name, this is an excellent “road map” to help protect your facility from unwanted pests. The Guide offers biosecurity strategies from the time plants come in the front door ’till they’re out in the compost bin.

Don’t have a facility-wide Pest Management Program in place? This guide can provide the framework. (Why start from scratch?). Already have a strategy to mitigate risks from pests at your farm? Compare YOUR plan with the Floriculture Guide to see if you’ve overlooked anything.

Continue reading “New tool can help identify gaps in your pest management program” →

Category: Floriculture Standard

Tropical Thrips Species Intercepted on Plant Material in Ontario: Be Aware – But Don’t Panic.

New tool can help identify gaps in your pest management program