Integrated Pest Management (IPM).
Integrated pest management (IPM) balances economic and ecological tactics with chemical tools to effectively manage pests. IPM focuses on preventive practices first to reduce pest populations and minimize pest damage. The next step is monitoring for pests and their symptoms as the basis for deciding if and when to use additional chemical or biological control tools. And finally, practices have been described for the effective and safe use of tactics to control economically damaging pest populations.
Pest management tools may include mating disruption, cultural or biological controls, beneficial insects and the use of pesticides, when necessary. Newer, more targeted (i.e. not broad spectrum) chemicals and biological pesticide options allow almond growers to plan an IPM program that protects not only this year’s crop, but also the long-term life of the orchard and surrounding environment.
Successful crop protection also requires proper application. When performed correctly, pest control can be optimized, and growers can achieve reductions in wasted product and drift potential — not to mention greater returns and a reduction in environmental impact.
Follow the simple steps outlined in the Almond Board’s Application Quick Tips – provided in English and Spanish – to best avoid spray drift and achieve effective applications:
