Assessing the effects of strip-tillage systems on insect pests and natural enemies in Kentucky cucurbit production systems

Cucurbit crops are vitally important to United Sates agriculture production. With a value of over $1.45 billion a year, they comprise nearly 10% of the US vegetable industry (Cantliffe, 2007).  Production of cucurbit crops can be challenging for growers across the country, especially since cultivars are grown in a variety of climates. In the south there are several economically important and disease vectoring insect pests, including the striped cucumber beetle (Acalymma vittatum (F.)), spotted cucumber beetle (Diabrotica undecimpunctata), and the squash bug (Anasa tristis). The practice of strip-tillage as a soil management technique has been shown to reduce soil erosion, and may help to reduce other costs to growers.  Our project focused on using a strip-tillage system to potently provide a habitat for natural enemies of the cucurbit pests and pollinator nesting. Row covers were also evaluated for as mechanical barriers to pest colonization. Pest intensity, pollinator activity, natural enemy levels, soil colloid stability, and yield were measured to compare management tactics in both organic and conventionally produced melons and squash in 2013.