Speaker (Topic): Krystal Schmich (Integrated Pest Management of Roses).
Date: Tuesday, Oct. 3, 2023
Social Time: 6:30 p.m.
Start Of Meeting: 7:00 p.m.
Location: Tucson Botanical Gardens (2150 N. Alvernon Way), one block south of Grant and Alvernon on the east side of the street.
Krystal will discuss pests that roses face (Western flower thrips, chilli thrips, aphids, ants, spider mites, cutter bees, cane borers, scale, rats) and how to solve those issues without using toxic pesticides.
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is an effective and environmentally sensitive approach to pest management that relies on a combination of common-sense practices.
IPM programs use current, comprehensive information on the life cycles of pests and their interaction with the environment. This information, in combination with available pest control methods, is used to manage pest damage with the least possible hazard to people, property and the environment.
IPM is not a single pest control method but rather a series of pest management evaluations, decisions and controls. In practicing IPM, growers who are aware of the potential for pest infestation follow a four-tiered approach. The steps include:
Set Action Thresholds
Before taking any pest control action, IPM first sets an action threshold, a point at which pest populations or environmental conditions indicate that pest control action must be taken. Sighting a single pest does not always mean control is needed. The level at which pests will become an true threat to your foliage, blooms or roots is critical to guide future pest control decisions.
Monitor and Identify Pests
Not all insects require control. Many bugs are innocuous, and some are even beneficial. IPM programs work to monitor pests and identify them accurately so that appropriate control decisions can be made.
Prevention
As a first line of pest control, IPM programs work to manage the area to prevent pests from becoming a threat.
Control
Once monitoring, identification and action thresholds indicate that pest control is required, and preventive methods are no longer effective or available, IPM programs then evaluate the proper control method both for effectiveness and risk.
