Integrated Pest Management

Prevention:

As a first line of pest control, IPM programs work to manage the lawn or landscaped area to prevent pests from becoming a threat. Maintaing proper cultural practices such as proper mowing strategies, irrigation, fertilization and aeration are some of the ways that we prevent weeds and pests at this level.  Healthy turf is much less susceptible to most weeds and pests. 

Control

Once monitoring, identification, and action thresholds indicate that pest control is required, and preventive methods are no longer effective or available, IPM programs then evaluate the proper control method both for effectiveness and risk. Effective, less risky pest controls are chosen first, including highly targeted chemicals, such as pheromones to disrupt pest mating, or mechanical control, such as trapping or weeding. If further monitoring, identifications and action thresholds indicate that less risky controls are not working, then additional pest control methods would be employed, such as targeted spraying of pesticides. Broadcast spraying of non-specific pesticides is a last resort.  Organic controls are also an option at this point.

Green With Envy attempts to utilize IPM concepts in all of the turf services they provide.  On an IPM specific level we offer both consulting services for our clients and also offer lawn maintenance & care programs with IPM being implemented as a major component.  Feel free to contact us to learn more about our IPM programs.

More info is also available at many websites including:  http://www.epa.gov/opp00001/factsheets/ipm.htm

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