Integrated Pest Management Spring Update for Maine Christmas Tree Producers
Date: Thursday, April 16, 2026
Time: 11 a.m.- 1 p.m.
Format: Live Webinar (via Zoom)
This session is eligible for 2 Maine Board of Pesticides Control recertification credits.
Registration
Cost: $15
Registration is required to receive the Zoom link.
If the registration fee is a barrier, or to request a reasonable accommodation, contact: Billiejo Pendleton, 207.342.5971 or billiejo.pendleton@maine.edu.
Session Topics
Balsam Gall Midge Update
Presenter: Brett Johnson, Assistant Extension Professor, Sustainable Agriculture and Farm Business Management Educator, University of Maine Cooperative Extension
Balsam gall midge is a major pest affecting balsam and Fraser fir Christmas trees in New England. It reduces quality in both trees and wreath brush by causing gall formation on current-year needles and premature needle drop.
This session will cover:
- Results from a 2024 insecticide efficacy trial in Southern Maine
- Scouting methods and timing for insecticide applications
- An integrated pest management approach to reduce economic losses
- Strategies to conserve beneficial biological control agents
Weed IPM: Non-chemical and Chemical Control Strategies for Perennial Weed Management in Christmas Tree Production
Presenter: Dr. Manjot Sidhu, Assistant Extension Professor of Horticulture and Ornamental Horticulture Specialist, University of Maine Cooperative Extension
Managing perennial weeds in Christmas tree production requires a multi-faceted approach. Perennial grasses and broadleaf weeds compete for nutrients and can reduce tree health and quality.
This session will explore:
- Biology of common perennial weeds in Maine
- Non-chemical control methods such as mulching and clover groundcovers
- Effective chemical control strategies
- Preventing herbicide resistance
- Protecting trees during sensitive growth stages like bud break
- Developing a long-term, climate-appropriate IPM plan
About the Speakers
Brett Johnson
Brett Johnson is UMaine Extension’s Sustainable Agriculture and Farm Business Management Educator and an Assistant Extension Professor. He serves as the statewide contact for Maine’s Christmas tree producers. His work focuses on integrated pest management in Christmas tree production and identifying market opportunities for specialty potato producers. Brett is also a member of the Woods Product Program Leadership Team and coordinates Extension’s Business Planning for Producers course.
Dr. Manjot Sidhu
Dr. Manjot Sidhu is an Assistant Extension Professor of Horticulture and Ornamental Horticulture Specialist with University of Maine Cooperative Extension. She develops educational programs, conducts applied research, and provides support for ornamental crop production across Maine. Her work supports the green industry, including floriculture, nurseries, greenhouse production, and consumer horticulture.
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