Monitoring: An Essential Factor To Managing Pests Of Landscape Trees And Shrubs

Abstract

Monitoring is a critical component of pest management programs for trees and shrubs. The regular inspection of plant materials for insect, disease, and cultural problems allows the pest manager to pinpoint control actions. Trapping devices can detect the presence of pests in a location and provide information for the optimal timing of control actions. Environmental monitoring can be used to fine tune controls to local climatic regimes. Incorporating several monitoring techniques into management programs enables landscape plant managers to reduce unnecessary pesticide use. This approach helps create more cost efficient pest control programs and satisfy the growing desire of clients to reduce the risk of pesticide exposure.