Jessica Petteys

Intercropping Solanum Tuberosum and Calendula Officinalis to attract the Coleomegilla Maculata as a biological control method for Leptinotarsa Decemlineata and Macrosiphum Euphorbiae populations 

In this study S. tuberosum (red norland potato) and C. Officinalis (English Marigold) were intercropped to achieve successful biological control of two pest species: L. Decemilinta (Colorado potato beetle) and M. Euphorbiae (potato aphid). This study possibly provides successful organic method of control that is easy to use, and can be conducted on a variety of continents including countries that are less technologically advanced and insecticides are not readily available. C. maculata (twelve spotted lady beetle) was found to be an effective biological control agent for these common agricultural pests and that a large population of lady beetles is not necessary for total control of aphids. The potato aphids were nearly controlled with only 2-3 spotted lady beetles present at the measured time.