IPM and BPM a lot, but what do they mean? I will be breaking these terms down and elaborating in a multi-part series. IPM is integrated pest management, basically only spraying for pest if necessary. Some people also refer to IPM as “intelligent plant management.” This definition ties in closely with BMP’s or Best Management Practices. Some lawn services see this as cutting into their revenue, we see it as preserving the environment.
Integrated pest management involves scouting, forecasting, and action. All weeds, and diseases happen due to environmental, and plant conditions. By staying on top of the watering and proper fertilization, disease and weed control can be greatly increased. The pest control is a little more difficult; it involves scouting and counting populations. There are also thresholds to be interpreted. 1 Armyworm in a yard does not call for spraying the entire property, neither does 5 mole crickets. Low pest populations are outgrown by proper fertilization. By reducing the chemical inputs, we are doing our part to preserve the environment and to cut down on your cost as a homeowner.
Next week I will cover BMP’s and follow it up by tying the two together.
Add Comment
