251-Best Management Practices for Wild Blueberry Production in Maine

Fact Sheet No. 251

Prepared by David E. Yarborough, Extension Blueberry Specialist, The University of Maine, Orono, ME 04469. June 2003. Revised February 2008.

Use of the Wild Blueberry Growers Guides for Best Management Practices

I. Pest populations and disease or weed pressures should be determined to be at a threshold or potentially harmful levels before a corrective measure is applied. 

Refer to:

Insects

Disease

Weeds

II. Accurately determine the insect, disease or weed pest.

Refer to:

Insects

Disease

Weeds

  • Fact Sheet No. 241-249 – Weeds 1 – 9

III. Determine the most effective, least toxic alternative and integrate chemical and cultural practices.  Refer to:

Insects

Disease

Weeds

IV. Follow methods in fact sheets to minimize of- target deposition. Refer to:

V. Application Methods Include: Ground boom, Airblast sprayer, Aerial by fixed wing or helicopter, granular spreader, selective wiper application, spot treatment with hand-boom or back pack-mist blower.

VI. Determine the most effective method of application by considering:

  • The effectiveness of coverage and distribution provided by equipment, or if the terrain is uneven and or rocky, for herbicide, insecticide and fungicide treatments.
  • The effectiveness of the product and it’s formulation for controlling the pest outbreak.
  • If plants have emerged in the field, or if the terrain is uneven and or rocky, damage to the plant and fruit by the application method.
  • The time available to treat pest once threshold or threat has been identified.
  • The proximity to sensitive areas.
  • Availability of application equipment and custom applicators.

VII. Use cultural controls first. Refer to:

Information in this publication is provided purely for educational purposes. No responsibility is assumed for any problems associated with the use of products or services mentioned. No endorsement of products or companies is intended, nor is criticism of unnamed products or companies implied.

© 2003, 2008

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