Controlling whiteflies: How marigold is helping to promote safer alternatives for pest management

Close-up of a fiery orange marigold flower
In a recently published study, researchers have identified the natural insect repelling chemical produced by marigold, reinforcing what farmers have culturally used for years as a tool to prevent or reduce whitefly infestations.
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Update: Plant Health News (02 Mar 16)

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Here’s a taste of some of the latest stories about plant health, including what can be done about the depleted nitrogen in African soils, investment in safe agricultural products in Vietnam and the effect El Niño is having on global food production. Click on the link to read more of the latest plant health news!
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New Type of Invasive Whitefly Recorded In South Africa

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A species of whitefly that transmits cassava mosaic virus has been detected in South Africa for the first time. The whitefly, Bemisia tabaci is a cryptic species complex containing some important agricultural pests and virus vectors. The term ‘cryptic species complex’ means that Bemisia tabaci is considered to be a complex of at least 24 different…
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Plantwise plant clinics – Pest diagnosis for a farmer in Barbados

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A farmer, Pedro Welch, attended the Plantwise plant clinic at this year’s Agrofest 2012, the annual agricultural show in Barbados. He described the problems he was having on his lime tree, and the plant doctor diagnosed the problem straight away, giving advice on how to manage the pest. Watch the video below to see a…
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Vector control goes viral

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Whether it’s measles, mumps or just the common cold, we’ve all suffered from a virus at some point, and so do crops. While we might try to avoid the person coughing and sneezing in the corner, the problem with many viruses (both human and plant) is that those carrying the disease are not always obvious.…
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