The Weather as an Indicator for Decision-Making Support Systems Regarding the Control of Cutworms in Beets and Cereal Leaf Beetles in Cereals and Their Adoption in Farming Practice

Abstract

The requirements of integrated control clearly indicate the need to use all available non-chemical methods to protect crop plantations, before deciding on a chemical method. In addition, there is also a provision in the integrated protection guidelines about the need for monitoring and signalling of pests and the recommendation to use available decision support systems (DSS) in chemical protection. The decision-support system facilitates and assists the agricultural producer in fulfilling the above principles and guidelines. The Institute of Plant Protection-National Research Institute (IPP–NRI) has conducted a six-year research program to develop a scientific basis for supporting decisions to control cutworms (Agrotis segetum Schiff et. Den., and Agrotis exclamationis L.) in sugar beets and cereal leaf beetles (Oulema spp.) in cereals. Validation tests in field experiments have demonstrated their effectiveness and their suitability for agricultural practice. Thanks to the obtained results, farmers have access to knowledge supported by solid research and field tests. Based on the obtained results, applications have been developed that will be usable by producers. The applications will assist in deciding the need for chemical protection of sugar beet against cutworms and cereals against cereal leaf beetles, thus recommending treatment only when necessary.