Research Information System
Turkiye Entomoloji Dergisi-Turkish Journal Of Entomology, vol.30, pp.183-193, 2006 (Refereed Journals of Other Institutions)
The purpose of this study was to determine possibilities of cultivating organic
cucumber under greenhouse conditions. Experiments according to principles and methods
for organic agriculture were conducted in Ege University (İzmir-TURKEY), Faculty of
Agriculture between 2003 and 2005 in a polyethylene (PE)-covered greenhouse (12.5 x 25 m)
erected with galvanized steel hoops, with side and roof ventilation and covered with insect
net. Cucumber (Cucumis sativus) cultivar “Sardes” was used as plant material. Trials were
carried on during two successive spring and autumn growing periods. Cultural methods for
pest management were applied before seedling transfer. Weeds and plant remains were
removed carefully during growing period regularly. Sticky yellow traps, one per 10 m2
were
hung 10 cm above the plants to monitor pests. Observations were made once a week in
order to determine pests and diseases during the growing period. Plant diseases did not
cause any significant problem during the growing seasons. Thrips, aphids, whiteflies,
leafminers and spider mites were observed as pests. Whiteflies did not reach economic
threshold. Damage due to leafminers was not important because of removal of the damaged
leaves and yellow sticky traps. Aphids, thrips and spider mites caused significant injury
sometimes and their injury level decreased by application of potassium soap 1-2 times a
week. In addition, Aphidius colemani Viereck (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) was released to
decrease aphid population. As a conclusion, yield data obtained in both growing seasons
showed that spring growing season seems to be more appropriate for organic cucumber
production in greenhouse conditions in İzmir.