Preventive learning about pests before experience takes over
by Dan Gilrein - [email protected]
Like other Extension Entomologists, I assist both new and experienced growers with pest management plans. Important considerations include the crop(s) and area in production, whether organic or otherwise, if biological controls are to be used, and whether there are any personal preferences or limitations. I try to get a sense of how much attention will be focused on managing pests and who will be responsible for that aspect of the business. It is also good to see the site and get an overview of the production plan, which can reveal other important details like the overlooked houseplants or other crops (i.e. potential sources of infestation) being maintained in the same range. I also scope out the general environment outside the range (ditto).
I like to see a good level of sanitation, meaning: no weeds in the greenhouse, a weed-free perimeter around the house if possible, no water ponding, good ventilation and air movement. Are there yellow sticky cards and are they being used to monitor (someone looks at them regularly) for flying pests like whiteflies and thrips, and are detections acted upon? Is any other kind of scouting or monitoring being done? Are precautions taken to avoid introducing pest or disease problems and is there some awareness of what those are and where the risks come from? I often help new growers with recognizing early signs, symptoms, and sources of infestation and how to look for them if they have little or no experience. Many are excellent, dedicated horticulturists and business managers but just need a bit more information.
Established growers have learned the value of raising seed-grown plants isolated from others, if possible (pests such as aphids and spider mites are not seed-borne). Vegetatively propagated material or older stock plants that can’t be grown separately need to be examined closely for insects and mites and treated, if necessary, so they don’t pose a potential threat to long-term moneymakers like greenhouse tomatoes or cucumbers.
Read the full e-GRO Alert here.
