Two experiments were performed in Qalubiya governorate, Egypt in autumn plantation during two seasons (2022 and 2023). The first experiment was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of three bio insecticides: Bacillus thuringiensis (Dipel), Prev-AM (Orange oil), and Buprofezin (IGR) compared to one conventional insecticide; Imidacloprid (Condor 35% SC.) on the population of whitefly; Bemisia tabaci (Genn.) (Hemiptera, aleyrodidae) and aphid; Aphis gossypii Glover (Hemiptera: Aphididae). The results revealed that Imidacloprid demonstrated the highest overall reduction for both whitefly adults and nymphs (exceeding 88.5% and 94.6% in the first season). Prev-Am (Orange Oil) showed promising results as well, achieving an average reduction of around 80% for both stages. Buprofezin and Dipel had lower average reduction percentages. Similar trends were observed for aphid control. Imidacloprid provided the most significant impact, with an average reduction exceeding 97.5% across both seasons. Prev-Am and Buprofezin showed moderate efficacy, achieving average reduction percentages of around 83.8% and 74.0%, respectively.

The second experiment explored the potential benefits of intercropping cucumber with two aromatic plants: celery (Apium graveolens L.) and coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.). This strategy aimed to repel insect pests and attract natural enemies of the target pests. Cucumber monoculture (planted alone) harbored the highest number of piercing-sucking pests (whiteflies and aphids) across both seasons. Intercropping with celery significantly reduced whitefly infestation compared to coriander or monoculture. Conversely, intercropping with coriander led to the lowest aphid infestation.