On this page the following entries were made in the “IPM Savvy” category. Check out other categories in our Archives.
Bug Blog Archives for “IPM Savvy”
Why Multiple Biocontrol Releases Makes Sense
I often explain why making multiple releases of biocontrols makes sense in human terms. I typically do this over the phone, but I don’t think I’ve ever written about my oft-used analogy. The one I resort to most often is to compare releasing of biocontrols to the US Civil War tactic where rows of infantry — the Line — would keep pressure on opposing forces by creating an unceasing barrage of fire.
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Natural Does Not Mean Safe
This is one of those editorial entries that could be considered a public service announcement. In that it counters some pesticide makers’ marketing efforts, perhaps we’re not supposed to speak of such things, but this topic is important. People need to know. Something being natural does not make it safe or organic. That said, let me start with a short story about our initial encounter:
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The SIP Approach
This entry is actually a quick reminder of what you should be doing this season. You know, so you’ll kick some bug butt and be a successful biocontroller, totally rockin’ your garden, greenhouse, or other green-growing domain. To get more in-depth information about what’s covered herein, please start with our Necessary Info section. Otherwise, let’s dive right in and check out the SIP Approach. Also know as Scouting, Identification, and Prevention.
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Innovate to Succeed
They say — whoever they may be — that necessity is the mother of invention. It’s true. The biggest variable is the definition of necessity itself. After all, it’s different for everyone. What’s necessary for one may be superfluous to another. But necessity or not, saving money is something we can all appreciate and this is where invention and innovation shine bright.
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What Went Wrong, and Why
If 2009 was your first year of using biocontrols as part of an IPM program, how did it go? Were you successful in meeting your goals? We suspect most of you will answer that you’ve partially met your goals; only a small minority will speak of rare grand successes or of dismal catastrophic failures. The majority of new users struggle the first year (or more), but usually survive, stronger and more knowledgeable than before. We’ve heard from some of you, and where there was failure, there is some strong commonality. And this commonality is confirmed by our years of experience helping folks overcome their initial experiences.
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Starting Your Own Insectary
It’s so easy even a cat can do it. At least according to a cat named Marge. One that just so happens to be a popular writer — and loving companion to one P. Allen Smith, gardening legend. Her cat’s eye perspective is certainly unique. In a recent pallensmith.com article, she relates how she wanted her owner to slow down and relax. To accomplish this she talked him into making an insectary by starting a garden just for bugs — to encourage them to stick around and take care of all the plants so he didn’t have to. Come to find out, it wasn’t that hard to do.
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