IPM for Wild Blueberry


"An organism should NOT be classified or treated as a pest until it really is one." Wild Blueberry Pesticide Applicators Guide
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:
- Scout and Monitor for early detection.
- Properly identify the plant stage prior to taking action.
- Properly identify the pest prior to taking action.
- A pesticide application should target a susceptible life stage.
- Develop a response method – specific to the pest and population level.
- Record response methods for future reference.
- Use predictive models when possible.
- Use the economic threshold in deciding when chemical management is necessary.
- 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
Reducing Inputs
Wild Blueberry Fact Sheets
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.
© 2021
Call 800.287.0274 (in Maine), or 207.581.3188, for information on publications and program offerings from University of Maine Cooperative Extension, or visit extension.umaine.edu.
The University of Maine is an EEO/AA employer, and does not discriminate on the grounds of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, transgender status, gender expression, national origin, citizenship status, age, disability, genetic information or veteran’s status in employment, education, and all other programs and activities. The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies: Director of Equal Opportunity, 101 Boudreau Hall, University of Maine, Orono, ME 04469-5754, 207.581.1226, TTY 711 (Maine Relay System).