Cooperative Extension: Maine Wild Blueberries

Importance of IPM

Integrated pest management aims to prevent outbreaks rather than treat infestation through a combination of cultural, mechanical and chemical techniques. IPM tactics should embody all available management options to reduce or maintain pest populations at a tolerable level without complete eradication of the pest.

The COMBINATION of techniques is key. The continual use of a single chemical can lead to resistance in pest populations creating a more difficult situation to manage.

The IPM Approach:

1. Scout and Monitor for early detection.
2. Properly identify the plant stage prior to taking action.
   1. Maine Wild Blueberry Phenology Guide
3. Properly identify the pest prior to taking action.
   1. A pesticide application should target a susceptible life stage.
4. Develop a response method – specific to the pest and population level.
5. Record response methods for future reference.
6. Use predictive models when possible.
7. Use the economic threshold in deciding when chemical management is necessary.
8. Use chemical management ONLY when there are no other means of control (mechanical or cultural).

Weather and Crop Modeling Tools

Past, Present & Future Weather:
Climate Re-Analyzer
Maine Climate Office

Fruit & Vegetable Crops
Wild Blueberry: AgriNet
Highbush Blueberry, Vegetable, Tree Fruit: NEWA 
Apple: AgRadar