• Predatory mite pioneers: A journey of biocontrol innovations

  September 30, 2024

  vibrant world of horticulture, Koppert stands out for its commitment to innovation. By combining a deep respect for nature and understanding of growers’ challenges [...] explore how Koppert is preparing for future challenges with new and evolving solutions. Peter Couwels is a fixture at Koppert, “part of the company furniture [...] Airobug is one of Koppert's air blowing systems for the efficient and even distribution of natural enemies. “By introducing different types of application

• Downy mildew of Cucurbits

  cuticula. For germination free water is required. For most downy mildews, the optimum temperature is around 15 o C and the closer the temperature is to this [...] On the underside of the leave fluffy growth appears which is first white and later turns grey-brown. This is actually the sporulation of the pathogens extruding [...] after a while new spore-bearing structures are protruding from the stomata. Because there are more stomata on the underside of the leaf, this is where

• Root rot of carrot

  Life cycle and appearance of Root rot of carrots The fungus of R. carotae has delicate, simple morphological features hence is not easy to place it at the [...] nonsterile soil remained viable at 0°C and 3°C for 12 months, at 6°C for 6 months, and at 12°C for 2 months, indicating a capacity to overwinter in cold regions [...] to annual crops. As far as is known, Daucus carota (carrot) is the only host plant of the fungus. How to prevent root rot of carrot Studies have shown that

• Bacterial canker of tomato

  tubers. This discolouration is round, hence the name ring rot. Life cycle and appearance of Bacterial canker of tomato Clavibacter is seed-borne and tuber-borne [...] structures Use a crop rotation in field crops of at least two years and alternate with a non-host crop Apply deep-ploughing to stimulate the decay of crop residues [...] usually white with a brown centre. In potato, the disease usually only occurs in the second half of the season. The first symptoms are wilting of the lower leaves

• Black leg of seedlings

  little of the root system survives. On the border between air and soil or substrate the plant turns brown. A typical symptom of a Pythium infection is the [...] stripping of the skin from the root cortex with a finger nail. Life cycle and appearance of Black leg of seedlings Pythium belongs to the Oomycetes, a separate [...] conditions, especially dehydration. Germination of the oospores is stimulated by exudates from roots of a susceptible host nearby. The oospores germinate and form

• Black rot of carrots

  appearance of Black rot of carrots Black rot of carrots ( Alternaria radicina ) is a seed-transferred carrot disease. The seeds are the main source of primary [...] case of black rot of carrots ( Alternaria radicina ) up to 8 years. Damage symptoms Black rot of carrots ( Alternaria radicina ) causes death of seedlings [...] death of seedlings. From the primary infection of leaves, this type of carrot disease can spread to the flowers (especially dangerous in crops for seed

• Towards a chemical-free future in agriculture: The vision of grower Koen

  decided to find a balance between both approaches. This way of working allows him to gain experience in using biological crop protection . As a result, he acquires [...] acquires a lot of knowledge and is prepared to fully transition to biological crop protection when the government decides that certain traditional methods [...] miles ahead in terms of sustainability and environmental friendliness, but that gap is getting smaller. In 15 years, I expect there will be no difference

• A life-long passion for predatory mites

  October 8, 2024

  mites?’ he asks with a smile. Koppert has been producing commercial quantities of predatory mites for more than half a century and is a global leader in this [...] Collaboration is key Staying ahead of the game by listening to growers and anticipating their problems is a daily routine at Koppert. It means that a number of [...] the use of chemical agents for a safer and healthier planet. I have found my passion in life. Koppert is the place for me to be.’

• Limonica: breakthrough in large-scale production of a complex predatory mite

  August 5, 2025

  Innovation in biological crop protection is central to Koppert. A striking example of this is the successful upscaling of Amblydromalus limonicus , better known [...] predatory mite is exceptionally effective against various insect pests, but is considered one of the most difficult species to produce. Thanks to a combination [...] produce and deliver Limonica on a large scale.” The importance of patents for innovation and reliability Tom Groot, responsible for the patent process, emphasizes

• A legacy of sustainability: Stolk Brothers and Koppert’s shared vision

  February 17, 2025

  .” Predatory mites: the backbone of a sustainable strategy For Stolk Brothers, predatory mites form the foundation of their biological crop protection [...] dedication to growers. “Koppert is more than just a supplier; they’re a partner in our journey. Their consultants help us stay ahead of potential issues, not just [...] that a chemical-free plant is actually the healthier choice. If a predatory mite leaves behind some residue, it’s proof that biological control is working—but