Extension

A well-kempt landscape doesn’t just happen, but it takes more than mowing, edging and raking leaves. Insects, weeds, pests and plant diseases are common parts of gardening. There was a time when treating these garden maladies called for harsh chemicals, but thanks to years of research, many gardening issues can be managed by a smart and sustainable approach called Integrated Pest Management, or IPM.

IMP gives gardeners a variety of tools that will help keep plants healthy while protecting people and the environment. It’s a strategy that combines prevention, monitoring and targeted control methods to effectively manage pests by using a combination of practices that minimizes risks to human health and the environment while addressing pest issues.

Some gardeners may be using IPM techniques without even realizing it. Things such as spraying aphids off plants with a strong stream of water, mulching flower beds to control weeds, choosing disease-resistant plants or covering plants with row covers to prevent insect damage are all methods of IPM.

Think of IPM as a tool box filled with various strategies gardeners can use to prevent and manage pest problems. Many of the strategies are simply common sense.

One tool in the IPM tool box focuses on cultural practices, which is making informed decisions about what to plant and how to grow that particular plant. Choosing plants that are well suited for the USDA growing zone, improving soil health and proper plant spacing are good cultural practices to follow. These practices can help prevent pest issues before they begin.

The tool box also contains tools that deal with physical and mechanical control methods. These methods involve directly removing or blocking pests by hand-weeding, using traps, installing barriers or washing insects off with water.

Biological control is another valuable tool. This method relies on beneficial organisms, particularly insects, to control pests. Releasing or encouraging natural predators in the garden can help maintain a healthy balance and reduce pest populations organically. Ladybug, praying mantis, lacewing, ground beetle, dragonfly, certain species of spiders and assassin bug are just a few natural predators that are beneficial.

Chemical control is still a part of IPM, but the chemicals are used sparingly, carefully and only when absolutely necessary. The goal is to choose products with the lowest impact on people, pets and beneficial insects while still effectively managing the problem.

By implementing IPM strategies, gardeners are creating healthier landscapes. Oklahoma State University Extension provides more IPM information online.