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Elements of IPM for Greenhouses in NY State
This set of basic elements, or components, of Integrated Pest Management
(IPM) should assist growers and crop consultants in implementing an
IPM approach for greenhouse crops grown in New York. Not all growers
will use all elements as managing pests is a dynamic process influenced
by weather, markets, new knowledge, and other information. Point values
are based on the relative importance of the activity in encouraging
an IPM approach to pest control.
The Elements for Greenhouse IPM in New York State are designed as
a self-evaluation tool for growers already implementing IPM or as an
educational tool for growers new to the concepts of IPM.
Major Pests
| Insects |
Risk |
Diseases |
Risk |
Weeds |
Risk |
| Thrips |
+++ |
Powdery Mildew |
+++ |
Annual Broadleaved |
+++ |
| Whiteflies |
+++ |
Root Rots |
+++ |
Algae |
+++ |
| Mites |
++ |
INSV |
++ |
Perennial Weeds |
++ |
| Aphids |
++ |
Rust |
++ |
Annual Grasses |
+ |
| Fungus Gnats |
+ |
Bacterial Disease |
++ |
|
|
| Shoreflies |
+ |
Botrytis |
+ |
|
|
| |
|
Leafspot |
+ |
|
|
+ = occasionally significant
++ = potentially significant
+++ = frequently significant, a priority for scouting;
- = not expected
Risks are compared within type of pest rather than across all pest
types, i.e. thrips to whiteflies, rather than algae to aphids.
EDUCATIONAL IPM CONSIDERATIONS
PRE-SEASON IPM CONSIDERATIONS
| Activity |
Points |
| Maintain a crop-free, weed-free period between seasons (1
month preferred) |
10 |
| Disinfect structure – all surfaces, including floors |
10 |
| Use new growing medium, containers and flats |
5 |
| Steam sterilize old medium and containers, if used |
5 |
| Disinfect and repair irrigation systems |
5 |
| Calibrate pesticide application equipment |
10 |
| Inspect and clean pesticide storage and mixing areas |
5 |
| Inventory pesticides |
10 |
| Ensure all personal protective equipment is clean and stored
properly |
10 |
IN SEASON CROP MANAGEMENT
| Activity |
Points |
| Keep complete records of maintenance procedures, EC readings,
fertilizer frequency, dates of growth stages, and maximum/minimum
temperatures |
5 |
| Use EC meter to formulate and test nutrient solutions |
10 |
| Test water source for presence of carbonates and other minerals
that can interfere with maintaining proper pH |
5 |
| Use EC readings or the “pour through” method to monitor
salt levels in the soil |
5 |
| Use tools, such as foliage or soil analysis, to determine
an appropriate nutrient program |
5 |
IN SEASON GENERAL PEST MANAGEMENT
| Activity |
Points |
| Scout weekly for insect, weed, and disease problems, using
a designated employee |
10 |
| Identify unknown insect and disease problems |
10 |
| Maintain scouting and pest control records in order to predict
pest problems |
5 |
| Maintain weed free zone outside greenhouse |
5 |
| Use appropriate methods for weed control |
5 |
| Inspect plants upon arrival and quarantine those with signs
infection or insect infestation. |
10 |
IN-SEASON INSECT MANAGEMENT
| Activity |
Points |
| Screen openings whenever possible |
5 |
| Monitor insects with sticky cards, check cards weekly and
change when needed |
10 |
| Begin releases of appropriate natural enemies at recommended
rates and intervals |
10 |
| Use insecticides only against those pests for which effective
natural enemies are not available |
10 |
IN SEASON DISEASE MANAGEMENT
| Activity |
Points |
| Maintain adequate spacing for air circulation |
5 |
| Ventilate to minimize condensation and encourage air exchange,
at sunset if possible |
10 |
| Remove any diseased foliage or plants from greenhouse promptly
and dispose in sealed container |
10 |
| Wash hands and disinfect tools before entering or moving
between greenhouses |
5 |
| Apply fungicide only if disease, or conditions conducive
to disease, are present |
10 |
Total Points Available: 225
80% = 180 points
Total Points Earned: ___
REFERENCES:
Additional information to assist you in using IPM can be found
in the following publications and online resources:
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