How do you identify when to use an IPM approach?

• A. By applying pesticides on a fixed schedule regardless of pest levels.
• B. By scouting pests, monitoring thresholds, and using non-chemical controls when possible; apply pesticides only when economic threshold is reached.
• C. By using chemical controls only.
• D. By applying pesticide based on calendar dates.

Answer: (B)

In IPM decisions are driven by actual pest pressure, not by a fixed schedule. You scout the field to know what pests are present and how much damage they’re likely to cause, and you use a threshold to decide when action is needed. If pest levels exceed the economic threshold, you intervene, but you first try non-chemical methods or targeted, selective controls when possible. Pesticides are used only when the potential benefits justify the cost, minimizing environmental impact, protecting beneficial organisms, and slowing resistance.

Choosing to spray on a set calendar or rely only on chemicals ignores what’s happening in the field and can waste pesticides or disrupt beneficials. Spraying only when pest pressure actually warrants it keeps pest management efficient and aligned with IPM principles.