Conservation and augmentation of natural enemies in pest management of Chinese apple orchards

A new cover cropping system in Beijing apple orchards was developed (1993-1995) with the aim of improving pest management. The system consists of two ground cover plants: Lagopsis supina (Labiatae) under the tree canopies, instead of the traditional cover of Chinese rape (Brassica campestris), and the alfalfa Medicago sativa in the row of apple trees. The authors compare the new system with the traditional cover cropping system and discuss the advantages of the L. supina cover underneath the tree canopies. (C) 1997 Elsevier Science B.V.