Many crops depend on pollinators, and natural enemies control pests for free.
Why it matters
Watermelon, cucumber, sunflower, mango, almond and many pulses give more and better fruit when well pollinated. Predators and parasites keep aphids, mites and caterpillars below damage level.
How to protect them
- Spray at dusk or night, never on open flowers, and choose the least harmful product.
- Avoid broad-spectrum insecticides unless needed.
- Plant flowering strips and hedgerows for nectar and shelter.
- Leave some un-mown margins and water sources.
- Consider hives at flowering of dependent crops, and talk to the beekeeper before spraying.
Scouting and thresholds mean fewer sprays, which is better for them and for your costs.
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