Biological control is the control of pests and diseases with natural enemies. Within biological control three groups of beneficial organisms can be distinguished. The most common examples are given for each category below.

It is vital to pay attention to the following points.

1. Introduce beneficials at the right time. The earlier the beneficials are introduced the lower the numbers that are needed and the better the effect. Some beneficials can even be introduced preventatively.
2. Pay attention to the quality of the material
3. Obtain the material from a recognised supplier who guarantees its quality and quantity.
4. Keep in mind the indicated storage temperature as well as the use-by-date. Begin with Integrated Pest Management in a period where the incidence of pest infestation is still low. That way, the use of pesticides can be limited and natural enemies will have a greater chance of establishment in the crop.
5. Become acquainted with the biology of the beneficials.
6. Encourage spontaneously occurring natural enemies to enter the crop by creating optimal conditions for them in which they thrive, e.g. humidity.
7. Use attractive plants or banker plants when possible (Datura, Ricinus). They may also attract pest insects, but when managed well they can be good sources of predators and parasites.
8. Make sure that harvesting, pruning or deleafing of the crop does not substantially reduce the population of beneficials.
9. Ensure that other natural enemies are not harmed by the application of natural products e.g. plant extracts and minerals, which contain components with a controlling or protecting effect against pests and/or diseases. These may be less selective than is indicated.

Chemical control