Pesticides of biological origin (biopesticides) are an important part of organic farming, providing a natural alternative to synthetic pesticides, including in the cultivation of specialty coffee. In this article, we will look at these products, which include mites, pheromones, vermiculurs (worms) and other biological substances. They are useful in pest control, while being completely eco-friendly.
1. Ticks
Some types of predatory mites are used instead of synthetic pesticides to control pests on coffee plantations. Species such as Phytoseiulus persimilis or Neoseiulus californicus target harmful insect pests such as spider mites, which are coffee pests. These beneficial mites feed on pest mites without harming coffee plants.
They are a good alternative to using chemical pesticides, which cause an imbalance in ecosystems and are harmful to end-users of coffee.
2. Pheromones for pest control
Pheromone — based products are chemicals that certain insects produce to communicate with each other. Synthetic versions of these pheromones are used in the cultivation of high-quality specialty coffee to disrupt the mating behavior of pests, confusing males who cannot find females due to the overwhelming presence of synthetic pheromones in the air, naturally reducing their population. This method does not affect non-target species or pollinators, such as bees, reducing the need for chemical insecticides.
3. Vermicultures (worms)
Vermiculture is the use of worms to break down organic matter into nutrient-rich compost. Worms break down organic waste into humus, increasing soil fertility and promoting healthy growth of coffee plants, which become less susceptible to pest infestations. Studies show that compost produced by worms can contain beneficial microorganisms, such as nematodes that attack soil-borne pests, such as root rot fungi or rhizome-feeding nematodes. This adds to the natural pest control process.
4. Useful nematodes
Beneficial nematodes, such as Steinernema feltiae, are microscopic worms that parasitize pests that live in the soil, such as coffee root weevils or root nematodes. They act by releasing bacteria that kill pests.
5. Neem oil
Derived from the seeds of the neem tree, the oil is a powerful natural pesticide with insecticidal properties. The action is to disrupt the hormonal system of insects, preventing them from feeding or reproducing. It is effective against a wide range of pests, including aphids and beetles.
6. Diatomaceous earth
Made from the fossilized remains of microscopic diatoms, this natural powder can be scattered over plants to control pests such as ants, slugs, and other crawling insects. Sharp particles of diatomaceous earth pierce the outer skeletons and tissues of pests, causing their dehydration and death.
7. Bacillus thuringiensis
This natural bacterium is used to control insect larvae by producing toxins that infect the digestive system of some pests, such as coffee beetle larvae. This bacterium is safe for humans, animals, and other non-target biological species.
8. Pyrethrin
Derived from chrysanthemum flowers, pyrethrin is a powerful insecticide that disrupts the nervous system of insects. However, it should be used with caution, as it can also affect beneficial insects, so its use is limited. Using these crops, you can significantly improve the environmental friendliness of growing specialty and other coffee and improve its quality.