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IPM is basically common-sense pest control. It is a decision
making process that involves identifying the pest, keeping a watchful eye on
pest numbers, and choosing appropriate control measures. If you decide that a
pest must be controlled, then follow the IPM approach, which considers four different
pest control strategies--cultural, mechanical, biological, or chemical--to get the best
long-term results with the least disruption of the environment.
Cultural control involves the use of gardening methods like pruning out insect- or
disease-infested limbs or selecting plants with natural resistance to particular pests.
Handpicking the pests from plants or covering vegetable plants with fabric row covers are
mechanical controls. Biological control means conserving naturally occurring beneficial
insects (like lady bugs and assassin bugs) or using pesticides that pose the least harm
to these natural enemies of the pest such as summer oils, soaps, and selective insecticides
like Bacillus thuringiensis (B. t.). Chemical control involves the judicious use of pesticides. |
The mission of Clemson University's Department of Horticulture
is to promote personal and professional growth through the
discovery, communication, and application of horticultural
experiences, knowledge, and scholarship. Our work fosters
environmental stewardship while improving economic wellbeing,
health, and quality of life for all.
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