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In 2021, Red Harvest started growing cucumbers and used predatory mites for biological control. These predatory mites were initially released every four weeks via bags. It soon became apparent that this could be done more efficiently. “In 2023 we switched to using loose material, but we did not yet have a specific device to distribute it,” Leon explains. For a year, the release was done with a hand blower, originally intended for supplementing biological control agents. This was time-consuming and did not give optimal distribution. “That's why I started looking for a better solution in late 2023: a device really made for releasing predatory mites.” 

After exploring several options, Red Harvest ended up with the UniMite. “We watched videos and delved into the options,” says Leon. “Through Royal Brinkman, we ended up with the UniMite Slider. We had worked with Royal Brinkman before and knew Luc Kurris and Martijn Maat well from previous projects. This made switching gears a lot easier.”

The installation went smoothly. “A mechanic from Brinkman had the unit operational within an hour,” says Leon. “It's a simple, but robust system that can't break much.”

“The UniMite Slider does exactly what it is supposed to do: a uniform distribution of predatory mites in the crop,” says Leon. “This ensures that the biology does its job better and prevents excessive pest pressure.” Employees are also satisfied with how the UniMite works. “The system is easy to use and gives us more flexibility. For example, if we see an increase in whitefly, we can immediately switch gears and deploy additional predatory mites.”

In addition, the dosage is easy to adjust. “By spinning the gear wheel faster we can adjust the amount of predatory mites to the situation,” Leon explains. “That makes it a very flexible system.”

Although long-term results are yet to be seen, expectations are high. “The real test comes in the summer, when pest pressure is at its highest,” says Leon. “But if the biology stays in good order, hopefully we can keep the pressure low.”

Do not hesitate to ask your questions to our specialist Michael Visser using the form. We will respond to your question as soon as possible.

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