In the vibrant world of horticulture, Koppert stands out for its commitment to innovation. By combining a deep respect for nature and understanding of growers’ challenges, they are transforming biological pest control one breakthrough at a time. We spoke with Peter Couwels, Director Operations, about Koppert’s innovative predatory mite solutions that marked a turning point for the company. Additionally, we explore how Koppert is preparing for future challenges with new and evolving solutions.
Peter Couwels is a fixture at Koppert, “part of the company furniture,” as he puts it. Originally from Belgium, Peter arrived at the Koppert headquarters in the Netherlands in 2001. “In 1967, our founder Jan Koppert reached a major breakthrough by being the first to use predatory mites to control pests," says Peter. “In 2006, I was part of another pivotal moment in our history when we launched our Swirski-Mite solution, a game-changer in crop protection.”
The Swirski-Mite revolution
Swirski-Mite came at a pivotal moment, when concerns about chemical residue on bell peppers grown in Almería, Spain, forced a shift from conventional to biological crop protection methods. “Growers urgently needed a solution to a difficult-to-control thrips species,” explains Peter. “We pioneered the use of the Amblyseius swirskii predatory mite, developed innovative packaging and application technologies, and invested in facilities for mass production, resulting in an effective and viable solution. Those breakthroughs in turn have served as a launch pad for new solutions, including our predatory mites Neoseiulus californicus, Transeius montdorensis and Amblydromalus limonicus, and application technologies like the Airobug.”
Lifting barriers
The Airobug is one of Koppert's air blowing systems for the efficient and even distribution of natural enemies. “By introducing different types of application systems, we lifted a major barrier for growers, especially of ornamental crops, to adopt biocontrol methods,” explains Peter. “The Airobug system attaches to mono or pipe rails, automatically moving back and forth to release the right dosage of natural enemies, resulting in effective biological pest control, as the mites are able to reach the pest faster.”
An innovation toolbox
Since 2006, Koppert has accelerated the introduction of new solutions. “Globalisation and climate change create the ideal conditions for invasive species to emerge and spread rapidly,” says Peter. “We see it as our responsibility to find solutions to those challenges as quickly as possible to help prevent and limit crop damage and loss. To achieve this, we developed the most extensive and innovative predatory mite range on the market, with numerous species and formulations tailored to different growing conditions. When speed is of the essence, we rely on this toolbox of solutions. By choosing the right combination, we can respond much more quickly than if we were to search for a new natural enemy for each new challenge. That speed can mean the difference between a successful and a disastrous growing season.”
When Thrips parvispinus emerged in Spain, wreaking havoc on vegetables and ornamentals, Koppert looked to its Ulti-Mite solution for a swift response. “We were the first and remain the only company to offer an alternative to paper sachets for the application of predatory mites in challenging climates. We initially developed our Ulti-Mite sachets, made of industrially compostable foil that can withstand heat and low humidity. We have applied this same technology to tailor our beneficial solution Transeius montdorensis to growing conditions in Spain, creating Montdo Ulti-Mite. Because of our investments in state-of-the-art production facilities and cold chain logistics, we were able to quickly bring Montdo Ulti-Mite to market. Today, Montdo Ulti-Mite is a key component of a pest management system, where multiple predators work together to control this chemical-resistant pest.”
Staying ahead of the game
Koppert is dedicated to tracking new and existing pests, including their spread and evolving behaviour into new plants, crops, regions and climates. While it is impossible to predict every scenario, the company works tirelessly to stay ahead of emerging challenges. “We have several pests on our radar,” says Peter. “We define pest ranges, rather than specific species, that we expect to encounter, and start developing solutions. These solutions encompass of course our natural enemies, but also technologies and systems that can easily be adapted to specific species. The goal is to be prepared when a pest issue arises.”
Among other pests, Koppert is currently focused on the stink bug. “We anticipated stink bugs becoming a global issue,” says Peter. “To prepare, we developed a parasite, Trissolcus basalis, against the stink bug Nezara viridula. We also invested in technology to adapt our solution for different stink bug species and set up facilities for mass production. No matter where or when stink bugs appear, we are ready to tackle them.”
Local-to-local
Koppert's global presence benefits growers but also presents sustainability challenges. By decentralizing its manufacturing, Koppert has cut transport-related emissions. It has also brought the company closer to its customers. Peter: “In 2021, we opened a predatory mite plant in Howell, Michigan, near Detroit. This location allows us to serve growers across the United States and Canada more efficiently. We are now closer than ever to customers in the Niagara region, enabling us to respond more swiftly to local needs. This local-to-local approach is not only sustainable but also significantly improves our service.”
Passion and commitment
Every day, biologists, engineers and consultants drive Koppert’s innovation forward. Their success stems not just from their expertise but also from their intrinsic motivation. “Once people join Koppert, they often stay for a long time, sometimes even their entire careers,” says Peter. “The level of passion, commitment and experience is remarkable. It is the reason we excel. We are able to successfully navigate a complex network with countless interacting parameters. Moreover, we are able to transfer some of that passion to our supply chain partners. The result is a well-oiled machine that produces innovations with a lasting impact on the horticulture community.”