There are multiple methods for pest control in organic farming.
To begin with, let’s talk about BioControl. Biocontrol is a method of controlling pests that affects plants, by using other organisms. Examples include using decapitating flies against red fire ants, and flea beetles against alligator weeds.
Crop Rotation is one of the most common and widely used measures for pest control. This refers to planting fields with different crops in different seasons. This reduces pest problems and the probability of developing resistant pests and weeds.
Similar to this is Intercropping. It is the practice of growing two or more crops together in the same place simultaneously. This can make it more difficult for pests to find their host plants. Since many pests find their targets by smell, the addition of crops in the field can disguise the scent. Example – Intercropping Canola with Barley reduces flea beetle.
Lastly, Trap Strips are plant stands that are grown to attract insects or other organisms like nematodes to protect target crops from pest attacks. It lures insects into a specific area, distancing them from the target crops. This is best suited for grasshoppers, where damage is usually initiated from the edge of a field.