What You Can Expect to Learn at the Upcoming BioSolutions Conference
January 10, 2023 
Biological controls, fertilizers, and stimulants have had remarkably rapid growth over the past eight years — the length of time Greenhouse Grower and its sister publications has hosted the BioSolutions Conference & Expo (formerly known as BioControls USA Conference & Expo). As an industry, we’ve grown more sophisticated in not only the types of products available, but also in how to apply them. Each year sees exciting breakthroughs and new approaches, making the conference a “can’t miss” for growers and agronomists.
Here’s a sneak peek into what you’ll learn at this year’s conference.
Explore Biological Solutions for Crop Protection and Plant Health
This year’s BioSolutions Conference & Expo takes place Feb. 23-24 in Reno, NV. Growers who attend will learn and grow with:
- Success stories sharing how growers are integrating biologicals into conventional, organic, and integrated pest management (IPM) programs
- Practical insight so you can learn to select, purchase, apply, and measure the efficacy of biologicals
- Regulatory updates and market developments that require or encourage the use of biologicals
- Operations and profitability strategies using the latest biological products and techniques
- Lively tradeshow floor showcasing leading biological and technology suppliers
The conference kicks off with a close look at nanobodies, a breakthrough biological technology that promises to stop citrus greening (and potentially any viral or bacterial-based disease) in its tracks. Not only does this new technology move from positive greenhouse results to field trials in 2023, but Drs. Michelle Heck and Robert Shatters of USDA and Marco Pitino with AgroSource also developed a cost-effective delivery system, one that future commercial partners can bring to market relatively quickly.
Following this outlook will be a mix of panel discussions and other presentations aimed at all growers, including:
- How to educate buyers and consumers about biologicals: Although biological solutions and IPM strategies are widely used, the story isn’t reaching customers and consumers. Consumer education can have a significant influence on sustainable food production.
- The latest application technologies for biologicals: A review of traditional methods alongside some exciting developments in the field of biological control agent release technology.
- How to use biostimulants to reduce fertilizer use: Fertilizer prices remain very high and represent a much larger expense for growers than they have in the past. Learn how biostimulants can improve plant health, easing some of these concerns.
- Tips on vetting new products: Learn how Metrolina Greenhouses closely evaluates potential products to determine whether they would be a good fit.
Crop-Specific Sessions
The BioSolutions Conference & Expo also includes breakout sessions devoted to specific crops. During the greenhouse track, you can learn more about:
- The important role that scouting plays in a biologicals program
- University of Florida research on using banker plants for thrips control
- Disease control in ornamentals using biocontrols
A cannabis track will focus on:
- Battling botrytis biologically
- Recent research updates from Suzanne Wainwright-Evans, also known as, “The Buglady”
- How knowing your plant’s rooting environment can help you produce a better crop
Prior to the main conference, attendees can register for a tour to learn more about sustainable farming practices at local operations. Finally, two post-event experiences on Feb. 24 will focus on:
Building Your Own Insectary: Join us for an afternoon exploring exactly what it takes to build a successful in-house beneficial bug hatchery. Led by Suzanne Wainwright-Evans, this intensive learning opportunity will walk you through not only the practical steps of such a program, but also will help you decide if it’s a good fit for you.
Unlocking Your Soil’s Potential: Soil health comes down to understanding what you have in your fields, what you need to do access those resources, and timing. Noel Garcia, Certified Crop Adviser, Senior Consultant and COO of TPS Lab, will walk you through how macro- and micro-nutrients and organic matter impacts your crops’ yield and quality.
Registration Is Open!
Registration is now open for the 2023 BioSolutions Conference & Expo at the Peppermill Resort Hotel in Reno, NV from Feb. 23-24. To register and learn more about the event, go to BiosolutionsConference.com.
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