For several years, the Pea Necrotic Yellow Dwarf Virus (PNYDV), transmitted by certain aphid species, has threatened domestic legume cultivation. Infection, especially in the early stages of plant growth, causes stunted growth, reduced pod set, and can lead to total crop failure. Control of aphids with insecticides is reaching its limits, and climate change is exacerbating the problem. This issue is particularly evident in the organic cultivation of field peas and broad beans. Declining acreage severely jeopardizes self-sufficiency in these crops.

EIP-Agri project “Beneficial insect flower strips”

The EIP-Agri project “Beneficial insect flower strips” investigates how far it is possible to attract natural enemies of aphids to and into the crop in order to keep the aphids in check and reduce transmission of the virus.

Flower mixtures

At the Institute for Plant Production, specially formulated flowering mixtures of native wildflowers were developed for this purpose. These flowering field margins are intended not only to attract predatory insects but also to provide food and habitat for a wide range of pollinating insects. With proper maintenance, these strips can maintain their important ecological functions for many years. By demonstrating the added value of this ecosystem service (natural pest control), the aim is to reduce the current skepticism towards increasing biodiversity in agriculture.