Terence Bradshaw, University of Vermont Apple Program Research Specialist
IPM stands for integrated pest management which is an approach to managing pests (i.e., insects, mites, disease-causing organisms, mice, etc.) which combines biological, cultural, physical, and chemical tools in a way that minimizes economic, health, and environmental risks.
It is a significant challenge to
produce a high quality apple crop while minimizing spraying. A high level of
knowledge of the crop, the various pests, the beneficial organisms, and how they
interact and affect each other within the apple ecosystem is required.
There are many insects and diseases which attack the various parts of apple
trees. Various degree-day models, monitoring techniques and action thresholds
have been developed to aid in IPM decision-making. Disease risk can be reduced
by planting disease-resistant apple cultivars which are commercially available.
However, depending on your marketing goals, these may not be appropriate for
your orchard. Disease-resistant apple cultivars are highly recommended for
those considering organic apple production.
Information about the various insects and diseases which you will have to manage can be found on the Tree Fruit IPM website: http://www.uvm.edu/~fruit/?Page=treefruit/tf_ipm.html.
A synopsis of key arthropod and diseases affecting apples can be found at: http://www.uvm.edu/~fruit/?Page=treefruit/tf_ipm/KeyAffectingApples/Key.html.
An IPM Checklist of management
items for consideration during the year is at:
http://www.uvm.edu/~fruit/?Page=treefruit/tf_ipm/2000IPMChecklist.html
It is
highly recommended that all orchardists obtain education and
training in the safe use and storage of pesticides. Information on how to
obtain your Vermont Pesticide Application License is at:
http://pss.uvm.edu/pesp/
Apple Scab: Improving Understanding for Better Management. (large pdf file)
Fruit Crop Ecology (large pdf file)
West Virginia University's Kearneysville Tree Fruit Research and Education Center
Deer Management in Fruit Plantings
OMRI Products List - a Directory of OMRI Listed® Products Check the most recent lists for allowable products if maintaining organic certification
Susceptibility of Selected Apple Cultivars to Rusts (Plant Management Network)
Susceptibility of Selected Apple Cultivars to Powdery Mildew (Plant Management Network)
An Organic Apple Production System For New York (2003 NYS IPM report)
"Surround" for Organic Plum curculio Control (2004 CCE bulletin)
Evaluation of Organic Pest Controls and Thinning on Multiple Apple Cultivars (2006 NYS IPM report)
Evaluation of Pest Management Tactics for Organic Apple Production (2000, 54 kb pdf)