Measurements of host-plant resistance in Chrysanthemum to Frankliniella occidentalis

Abstract

The most important and difficult-to-control pest in ornamental crops grown in greenhouses both in Europe and in the U.S.A., is the Western Flower Thrips, Frankliniella occidentalis (Pergande) (Robb, 1989). This insect can go unnoticed and builds up a large population before it is detected. Therefore the growers treat the plants preventively with insecticides. Over 100 treatments are carried out every year in some crops, which results in a significant pollution of the environment.