Definition and role in the reduction of phytosanitary products : the push-pull consists in introducing a so-called repellent plant having the property of repelling (push) pests from the crop and/or a trap plant having the property of attracting them (pull ) outside the culture.
Against which pests? Aerial pests: biting-sucking insects, caterpillars, and certain soil pests such as nematodes.
On which crops? Open-field and sheltered market gardening.
When ? Trap plants must be at an attractive phenological stage for pests when they arrive on the crop. Trap plants should therefore be planted in such a way that this stage is earlier and lasts longer than the attractive stage of the cash crop. If necessary, plant the trap plant in several stages.
In what conditions ? The technique is applicable on small surfaces. In general, repellent plants are installed within the plot and attractive plants (trap plants) at the edge of the plot. Repellent plants must be associated with cultivated plants. It is important to take into account the prevailing winds when planting trap and repellent plants. Sensitive trap plants must be destroyed or treated at the right time before the pest has completed its cycle and spreads. Improper destruction can contribute to the undesirable development of pest populations. This technique is adaptable for protected crops or greenhouses using service plants in pots.
Regulations : none.
Working time: increase in working time for establishment, maintenance and harvesting or destruction of service plants and in some cases reduction due to the removal of phytosanitary treatments.
Compatibility of alternative techniques with each other :
Crops
