Can wildflowers contribute to pest suppression in outdoor hemp?

Can wildflowers contribute to pest suppression in outdoor hemp?

Ivy Thweatt¹ and Katelyn Kesheimer¹

Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama, U



Hemp, Cannabis sativa L, production has seen a major resurgence in the last 7 years. In the U.S and Alabama, most hemp is grown for its floral components, and specifically cannabidiol (CBD). CBD can be used for human consumption and is often sold as a wellness product. As a result, there is pressure on growers to use fewer pesticides while still managing pests, including insects and mites. Therefore, this study evaluated a conservation biological control strategy to suppress pests such as corn earworm, Helicoverpa zea, in outdoor hemp. We planted native wildflowers adjacent to hemp to support and enhance natural enemy populations. We hypothesized by improving pollen, nectar, and shelter to the beneficial insects' habitat with native wildflowers planted next to the hemp will increase natural enemies' populations and suppress pests. Four species of wildflowers were grown individually in plots and also as a mix: purple coneflower (Echinacea purpurea), butterfly milkweed (Asclepias tuberosa), red shade yarrow (Achillea millefolium), and black-eyed- Susan (Rudbeckia hirta L.) At the E.V. Smith Research Station in Shorter, Alabama, plots of wildflowers were planted next to CBD hemp and sampled regularly for pest and beneficial arthropods. At the end of the season, we assessed caterpillar damage and yield. This experiment will discuss the potential for wildflowers as an integrated pest management strategy in outdoor hemp.