Natural Pest Control Saves Apple Growers £3,000 Per Hectare

Apple growers could save nearly £3,000 per hectare by planting wildflower strips in their orchards, according to new research highlighting the benefits of natural pest control.

The study showed that flower-rich margins attract beneficial insects like ladybirds, lacewings and hoverflies, which prey on harmful pests such as the rosy apple aphid. These pests are known to cause severe damage to apple crops, but the presence of natural predators significantly reduces their impact—leading to healthier yields and less need for chemical pesticides.

Dr Charlotte Howard, who led the research, said: “Flowers attract helpful insects that work hard to keep pests under control. Farmers could save money while boosting biodiversity and letting nature do some of the heavy lifting in looking after their crops.”

The research team found that where flower strips were used, growers saved up to £2,997 per hectare by avoiding pesticide costs and crop losses. The location of the strips played a major role in their success. Flower strips planted on orchard edges—replacing grass margins rather than productive trees—delivered the most benefit.

Importantly, even in seasons with lower pest pressures, these flower strips still paid for themselves, showing consistent value to growers.

As well as saving money and reducing chemical use, the flower strips bring wider environmental advantages. They boost biodiversity, support pollinators, and contribute to a more balanced ecosystem within the orchard.

Guides have been developed to help growers introduce flower strips effectively, offering a practical, low-cost route to more sustainable apple production. This nature-based approach is proving to be a win-win for both the environment and farm economics.