Study finds Mediterranean shrubs boost natural pest control in vineyards

Portuguese researchers found that Mediterranean plants growing along vineyard margins support natural predators of vine pests, potentially reducing the need for chemical treatments. The study, conducted at Herdade do Esporão in Alentejo by CE3C and LEAF scientists, tracked parasitoid wasps, spiders and predatory mites near different plant species. Tamarisk and mastic shrubs were linked to high numbers of wasps and spiders in spring and summer, while ground vegetation sheltered them in winter. Predatory mites were also more abundant near biodiverse margins than in vineyards surrounded only by other vines, suggesting hedgerows could be a useful tool for sustainable viticulture.