Why Integrated Pest Mgmt (IPM)?
      Over 90% of flowering plants and 75% of crops 
       depend on insect pollinators
      Pollinators are an integral component of 
       natural ecosystems that make the natural 
       energy flow and nutrient cycling necessary for 
       crop production possible. 
      Integrated Pest Management (IPM) practices 
       have been developed to improve pest control 
       while minimizing impacts on beneficial 
       species, such as pollinators.
                  http://www.fws.gov/contaminants/Documents/IPMpol.pdf 
     What is IPM? 
      Definition: A long-term pest control 
       technique that relies on combinations of 
       crop rotation, cultural practices, 
       biological controls, and pesticides 
        Pesticides are used only as a last resort and 
        according to strict guidelines
      Key words: long term ; combination 
      Benefits of IPM
       Minimizes loss of pollinators, which…
       Increases plant productivity
       Reduces economic losses
       Minimizes health risks (what kills an insect in 
       small doses kills pets and animals in large doses)
       Decreases risk of pesticide resistance 
       Protects the environment, which…
         Increases plant productivity and reduces economic 
         losses 
       Finally – It’s more effective!
     Background
      Plants often come to retailers and eventually to 
       you through large supply chains.  
      This increased transportation of living plants 
       increases the spread and depth of an insect 
       infestation
        Nutshell: it’s pretty much impossible to buy plants 
         completely free of insects
      If you have bought plants, you will have insects
      If you raise plants from seed, the risk is lower 
       but still substantial. 
      Principles
       The basic principals of successful integrated pest 
        management (IPM) include:
         Inspecting incoming plants
         Regular, consistent monitoring
         Sound cultural practices (crop rotation, spacing, etc.)
         Accurate identification of insects, diseases and 
         cultural issues
         Prompt, timely pest management decision-making
         Good communication between all members involving 
         in this decision-making process including scouts, 
         pesticide applicators, managers, owners etc.