ENTOMOLOGY: INSECT
PESTS |
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MG
Manual Reference
Ch. 3, pg. 23 |
[ Insect Pests: ipm |
landscape;
foliage, sap,
trunk, root |
turf grass; root,
leaf, sap,
nuisance |
household;
structures,
living quarters,
products |
outdoor | citrus
| fruits |
gardens ]
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Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is an
ecologically-based pest control system that relies heavily on
plant tolerances and natural mortality factors, such as natural
enemies, and seeks out control tactics that disrupt these factors
as little as possible. IPM uses pesticides, but only as a last
resort and after systematic monitoring of pest populations and
natural control factors indicate a need. Ideally an IPM program
considers all available pest control actions, including no action,
and evaluates the potential interaction among various control
tactics, cultural practices, weather, other pests and the plant to
be protected. |
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IPM is not a method of control, but rather a set of
guidelines for making judgements as to what, when, where and how
methods may be used to optimize the end result. In the landscape
ecosystem, the end results will be measured not only in terms of
plant survival, but also in terms of plant appearance which
relates to its contribution to a healthy and attractive landscape.
The value judgements must be made from the view of the property
owner and individuals using the area as well as for environmental
quality and public health within the community. |
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The first step in developing a successful IPM program
is to properly identify the pest(s) present. In this section, the
identification of insect pests and the diagnosis of insect
problems will be discussed. The identification section has been
divided into pests of landscapes, pests of turf, pests of
households, pests of yards, pests of citrus, pests of deciduous
fruits and nuts, and pests of gardens and annual flowers. |
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