Because chemicals are no longer allowed, pheromones are used to save the beet harvest and sugar production. Because the weevils are a real problem for Austrian farmers.
It almost seems as if special Easter nests in the fields of the Weinviertel have been forgotten. In fact, however, there are 155,000 plastic buckets that farmers are currently burying in the fields. The containers contain pheromones, i.e. sexual odors that lure insects into a trap. And specifically the beet beetles.
Because the local beet growers are fighting a bitter battle against these six-legged pests. And this battle for the beet harvest will apparently be even tougher this year than in previous years. Until now, homemade sugar beets have been treated with neonicotionoids – neonics for short – before planting to keep pests away.
Pheromone traps against vermin
In January, however, the European Court of Justice ruled that this stain may no longer be used. Those affected complain that the farmers only have the less efficient pheromone traps to control the beet weevil. Who’s Angry: Because the rejected neonics can still be used in flea collars for dogs and cats.
Due to the increasing pest pressure, bucket traps were also used in the past, because fertilization alone could no longer save some beet fields. “However, the stain enabled targeted pest control. We now have to spray plant protection products against other pests such as aphids or beetroot fleas, which of course also kill beneficial insects,” says farmer Johannes Kraus from Maria Roggendorf in the Hollabrunn district without a fight. However, he sees the forecasts for the beet harvest as rather gloomy.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
