August 1999 // Volume 37 // Number 4 // Tools of the Trade // 4TOT2
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New England Integrated Pest Manual Scouting Guide for Poinsettias
Abstract
New England Integrated Pest Management for Poinsettias - A Manual for Growers and Scouts, is available for $10.00 per copy (U.S. funds) from the University of Connecticut, Office of Communications and Information Technology, U-35, 1376 Storrs Road, Storrs CT 06269-4035. The 30-page reference manual covers scouting for key insects, diseases and nutritional disorders. It was designed for use by growers, scouts, and Extension agents in the field. Two summary tables provide an overview of the scouting process. Sample scouting forms and a listing of New England diagnostic laboratories are included.
In 1993, a Poinsettia Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Program was initiated at the University of Connecticut. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) uses of a variety of pest control methods designed to produce high quality crops with the most judicious use of pesticides. The goal of this educational program was to provide intensive training so that growers obtain the knowledge, skills and confidence to use IPM techniques while producing a high quality poinsettia crop.
Training sessions focus on the identification and biology of key insects and diseases, scouting techniques, and pest management decision-making. Pre- and post-season questionnaires were used to evaluate the program's training materials.
A scouting manual was developed to address the biological, identification, and management concerns among others. This 30-page reference manual was divided into four chapters for organizational purposes and to facilitate finding information quickly. The identification, biology, life cycle and scouting techniques are covered in the chapter on insect and mite pests. Favorable conditions for disease development, scouting, and management tactics are included in the chapter on key diseases and disorders. To aid in prompt diagnosis, an insert lists the soil testing and diagnostic laboratories within New England.
Twenty-five color photographs show key insects and their life stages plus key diseases. Overviews of the scouting process are included as tables for quick reference. The sample scouting forms can be duplicated as needed.
This manual, reviewed by colleagues in Connecticut, Massachusetts, Vermont, Maine, New Hampshire and Vermont, was produced by the University of Connecticut Cooperative Extension Service. Production was made possible in part by a grant from the New England Greenhouse Conference Awards Committee.
New England Integrated Pest Management for Poinsettias - A Manual for Growers and Scouts, is available for $10.00 per copy (U.S. funds) from the University of Connecticut, Office of Communications and Information Technology, U-35, 1376 Storrs Road, Storrs CT 06269-4035.