gen-define-integrated-pest-management-and-give-one-short-worked-ab05

Define integrated pest management and give one short worked example.

# Integrated Pest Management (IPM) **Definition:** Integrated Pest Management is a sustainable approach to managing pests that combines multiple control methods (biological, cultural, physical, and chemical) to minimize economic, health, and environmental risks. The strategy emphasizes prevention, monitoring, and using the least toxic interventions first, only escalating to stronger measures when necessary. ## Worked Example: Aphids on Tomato Plants **Problem:** A home gardener notices aphids appearing on tomato plants. **IPM Approach:** 1. **Monitoring**: Check plants weekly; count aphids to determine if population exceeds threshold (e.g., >10 aphids per leaf) 2. **Cultural control**: Remove weeds that harbor aphids; avoid over-fertilizing with nitrogen (promotes tender growth aphids love) 3. **Physical control**: Spray plants with strong water stream to dislodge aphids 4. **Biological control**: Introduce or encourage ladybugs and lacewings (natural predators) 5. **Chemical control** (if needed): Only after 1-4 fail; use insecticidal soap (low toxicity) on affected areas rather than broad-spectrum pesticide on entire garden **Outcome:** Aphid population controlled with minimal environmental impact, beneficial insects preserved, and future pest resistance avoided.