By Blake Jackson
A new research effort funded by the Northern New York Agricultural Development Program (NNYADP) has shown that ground barriers can help reduce damage caused by swede midge, a destructive pest in vegetable farming. The swede midge harms brassica crops like broccoli, kale, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts by laying eggs at the plants’ growing points, with larvae feeding on them.
In 2024, Cornell Cooperative Extension vegetable specialists Dr. Elisabeth Hodgdon and Christy Hoepting tested the use of silage tarps and landscape fabric over infested soil at farms in Jefferson and Essex counties. The goal was to prevent the spring emergence of swede midges and protect crops throughout the season.
Results were promising. Farms that had previously lost up to 100% of their brassica crops saw reduced pest activity. Chicory Hill Farm in Antwerp reported less overall damage in 2024 compared to 2023. At Riverside Farm in Cape Vincent, kale damage dropped from 80-90% in 2023 to just 32% in October 2024. Full and By Farm in Essex recorded no damage in June, July, or fall after using landscape fabric.
The trials revealed that landscape fabric was slightly more effective than silage tarp. Farmers involved in the study said the technique was a useful addition to their integrated pest management strategies.
Encouraged by the results, researchers have now secured additional funding to expand ground barrier trials across New York in 2025. The complete findings are available at nnyagdev.org.
This research shows how simple, sustainable tools like ground barriers can make a big difference in managing pests and protecting crops, especially for organic farmers.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-fotokostic
Categories: New York, Crops, Corn