Integrated Pest Management

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is an effective and environmentally sensitive approach to pest management that relies on a combination of common-sense practices. IPM programs use current, comprehensive information on the life cycles of pests and their interaction with the environment. This information, in combination with available pest control methods, is used to manage pest damage by the most economical means, and with the least possible hazard to people, property, and the environment. IPM takes advantage of all appropriate pest management options including, but not limited to, the sensible use of pesticides.

IPM is a four tiered approach. They are:

1. Determine when the pest population requires control;
2. Monitor and identify the pest(s) to control;
3. Prevent the pests from becoming a problem and
4. Control. When the pest(s) need to be controlled there are four components. They are applied in the following order.
a. Physical, Mechanical, Environmental and Chemical.
i. Physical is the process of removing the pest(s) by hand.
ii. Mechanical is the process of using a device to remove the pest. For example using a lawn mower or garden hose.
iii. Environmental is the process of placing the plant in the proper environment for healthy growth.
iv. Chemical is the application of applying various materials to repel or kill the pest(s). This step is the last option in the management of pest(s).

Tree Care, Inc. uses IPM for the safety of our clients and to give trees, shrubs and plants the best environment to grow.

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