Ordinary people are exposed to pesticide residues by eating agricultural products. Yet some pesticide substances have been linked to the development of various types of cancer, adversely affect the development of the human foetus, and even affect the fertility of women and men. Pesticide residues in food are also responsible for various allergic reactions, respiratory problems, adverse skin manifestations and negative effects on the function of the nervous system, both in adults and children.
"Our vegetables meet the same stringent parameters as organic or baby food in terms of pesticide content."
Pesticides are used to control diseases and pests on plants, in warehouses, apartments and other areas. Their main ingredients are substances with a specific mechanism of action acting on a particular pest. The active substances are of synthetic origin, sometimes also obtained from natural sources.
"However, the use of these substances is not strictly necessary for cultivation. Our vegetables are proof of this."
The bumblebee (Bombus terrestris) is the largest species of its genus and is relatively abundant in Europe. Its oval body is adorned with two yellow-brown stripes - behind the head, on the prothorax and on the rump. It also has a typical white rump. The bumblebee has a sting, but unlike wasps, bees and hornets, it rarely uses it.
Image: Bombus terrestris, Koppert Biological Systems
"The tomato flower is very unattractive to the bee because it contains no nectar. Bumblebees, on the other hand, have proven to be diligent and thorough workers."
Pesticides on Bezdínek Farm are replaced by natural and, above all, natural enemies - "good" insects that prevent pests from overpopulating without the use of chemicals. The tomatoes can then ripen in peace and warmth to beauty and first-class taste. This nature's own prevention allows us to supply the Czech customer with naturally sweet, fresh, tasty and healthy tomatoes all year round.
Image: Predatory flatworm Macrolophus pygmaeus, Koppert Biological Systems
Biological plant protection is a game of time. That is why the monitoring of diseases and pests in the greenhouse is the basis of biological plant protection. As a precaution, we release natural enemies of pests into the greenhouse every week. In this way, a stable population of predators and parasitoids is established in the greenhouse, which will not allow pests to overgrow.
"The tomatoes and cucumbers grown at Bezdínek Farm are completely free of pesticides. This is despite the fact that it is a much more expensive and complicated way of growing."
