Integrated Pest Management (IPM)

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is a method of pest control that relies on a combination of techniques or strategies, which may include, but is not limited to, the use of pest control chemicals. The overall aim of IPM is to prevent pest problems and to reduce pest numbers to a low enough level so as to minimise problems that result from reliance on one type of control method. There is no specific program for everyone, each situation is different and will vary in the techniques used. This may include:

• use of beneficial plants;
• use of beneficial insects;
• creating inhospitable living conditions by reducing food and water;
• crop rotation;
• soil solarisation;
• physical controls such as traps, collars, barriers;
• sanitation (e.g. disease free planting material);
• the use of resistant species;
• biological controls; and
• intercropping (e.g. planting marigolds amongst tomatoes to control nematode).

The collection of information on the lifestyles of pests and their interactions with the environment is essential in the development of an appropriate program. This can be a complex task and you may need to seek further advice from your local garden centre or horticulturist. For further information please contact Canberra Connect 13 22 81.