2.1 Basic principles of plant protection in organic farming
Providing good growing conditions for plants to enhance their resilience and resistance
By choosing the appropriate location, production system, variety and technology, it is required to create favourable conditions for the development of healthy and resistant plants, and unfavourable conditions for the development of diseases, pests and weeds. Different agricultural crops, and especially annual and perennial species, have specific growing demands and technological solutions need to be adapted to them, but the principles we are guided by are common. Proper site selection should provide adequate lighting, airing and drainage, while one near potential sources of infection needs to be avoided. The possibility of damage and economic losses will be reduced by growing varieties resistant to the main pests. Planting and sowing healthy reproductive material will prevent the entry of the infection source. The appropriate system of soil maintenance and balanced organic fertilization will improve soil fertility and increase the diversity of soil microorganisms. Plants grown on fertile soil will be more resistant, and among the diverse microbiological population, natural enemies of soil pests will develop as well. By organizing crop rotation and growing several crops in the same field, the accumulation of harmful organisms will be avoided. Selection of the appropriate plant spacing and plant management in the field create an unfavourable microclimate for the development of diseases and weeds, while the monitoring of infection symptoms, pest populations and the application of plant protection products are facilitated.
When establishing an agricultural holding and carrying out technological interventions, it should be always kept in mind that all the implemented measures have an important impact on the development of diseases, population of pests and weeds in the field. By implementing them properly, the problem of important pests of the crops can be permanently reduced.
