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Integrated Pest Management applies to all pests-weeds, insects, diseases, and even animals. It takes into account many management tools-planting adapted varieties, keeping plants, healthy, encouraging natural enemies, using the best means of control, which may be cultural, biological, or mechanical, or the least toxic pesticide. |
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The first step in Earth Kind Pest Management is to correctly diagnose a problem. Look at the plant-and observe the effects of the problems: When did the problem start? Is the normal growth pattern of the plant affected? How much of the plant is affected? Are there color changes, and what is their pattern? Are older or newer leaves affected more? For leaf spots, be sure to look at both sides of the leaves. Is there evidence of insect or animal presence (droppings, old insect cases)? Are there parts of the plant missing? What is the pattern of that damage? |
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"Physiological problems" are often mistaken for diseases. These may be caused by temperature or moisture extremes, nutrient imbalances (too much or too little of one or more nutrients), toxic chemicals, or mechanical injury. Here are some of the most common problems you may see on vegetable crops, and other plants in your landscape: |
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Iron deficiency is shown by newer leaves turning yellow, with the veins staying green. These symptoms usually indicate a high pH. Addition of organic matter will usually help to prevent it. Short term problems may be solved by using a liquid iron and soil acidifier. In some instances, a lack of drainage or a root disease may result in these symptoms. |
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Broadleaf herbicide damage on tomatoes is one of the most common, since tomato plants are such a common crop and are also very sensitive to these chemicals. |
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Blossom end rot is a shortage of calcium in the fruit which results from lack of water at some point. High humidity can even contribute to the problem. While it is most common in tomatoes, it can show up on almost any fruiting vegetable (peppers, and even watermelons). Keep moisture levels even by irrigating frequently enough and mulching. |
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Fruit can also be subject to sunburn. The best way to prevent this is to grow healthy plants with adequate foliage. |
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Leaf holes can be caused by many things-chewing insects, animals, or hail damage. When diagnosing the problem, it is important to notice the pattern of the holes. If it is similar on both sides of the leaf, it probably happened when the leaf was unfolding, and it may be too late to do anything about it. |
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Disappearance of leaves denotes a chewing insect or animal-in this case, the culprit is obvious, a tomato hornworm. |
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Worms may also feed on fruit. While some people are not bothered by the presence of a worm; |