Data and code from: Insecticide-level pest control provided by in-field flower strips

Biodiversity in agricultural landscapes has declined significantly due to
intensified farming practices, underscoring the need for sustainable pest
management. Here, we tested whether in-field flowering strips can be an
alternative to conventional insecticide use in farming systems. We
experimentally manipulated flowering strip mixtures on 10 sites across
Germany and measured aphid infestation, biocontrol, and yield in sugar
beet, a key European sugar source. All flower mixtures reduced aphid
populations more effectively than controls without flower strips, with
some mixtures performing as well as insecticides. Mixtures containing
legumes were particularly effective against aphids, likely due to their
attraction of specific predators. Sugar yields were similar in all plots,
regardless of flower mixtures or insecticide treatment. Synthesis and
applications: Our findings indicate that in-field flower strips or derived
legume-based intercropping systems can help reduce reliance on pesticide
use in agriculture.