Integrated pest management (IPM) helps growers use pesticides wisely in combination with other approaches to minimize economic, health and environmental risks. IPM provides a system for growers to use knowledge instead of just pesticides to control pest problems.

To make good choices about control, growers need knowledge gained from training and observations in the field. This knowledge includes information about pest life cycles, scouting for pests

and the impact of pesticides. IPM's systematic approach helps growers use information to make sound decisions about pest control that take into account cost, effectiveness, resistance management and potential environmental impacts. IPM emphasizes a range of options to prevent pest problems - including solutions based on mechanical, such as mowing or pruning, or cultural practices like planting cultivars that match site conditions or are disease resistant. With improved spray timing, IPM enables growers to use pesticides more efficiently, effectively and safely. Growers can reduce or eliminate practices such as application of broad-spectrum pesticides that disrupt natural processes for controlling pests.

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