| Aphid populations, including a widespread pest, Myzus persicae, are known to be affected by cultural practices, plant growth and natural regulation, but their control in orchards most frequently relies on regular treatments aiming to avoid direct damage and virus transmission. This study aimed first at characterising farmers’ management strategies towards aphids and, secondly evaluating them in terms of efficiency and impact on aphid natural enemies from 19 organic and conventional fruit farms in south-eastern France. Comprehensive variables made it possible to differentiate four strategies: intensive, optimised, input-substitution and integrated. The more integrated the strategy, the more diverse and abundant the aphids. The two most effective strategies... |
