Ecosystem Approaches to Managing Insect and Mite Populations Effectively in Inland Desert Vineyards Utilizing Sustainable Production Practices — A Review

Abstract

Vineyards worldwide have adopted sustainable management practices and integrated pest management (IPM) to reduce dependence on broad spectrum insecticides that may reduce beneficial insect populations. Use of IPM techniques can minimize negative impacts on predator-pest dynamics and reduce certain types of pest outbreaks. While vineyards in inland desert climates face fewer threats to vine and grape quality than those in more humid locations, utilizing conservation biological control methods such as attracting beneficial insects may be a challenge due to low annual precipitation. This review identifies the major vineyard insect and mite pests of the inland Pacific Northwest, their associated beneficial predators, and discusses techniques to enhance beneficial insect populations in these climates.