PLANET: IPM is catching on
30 May, 2007 LM Direct!HERNDON, VA — Looking for a common sense approach to lawn care? Try Integrated Pest Management (IPM). IPM is not new but is gaining in popularity and availability as a service option by lawn and landscape companies. What should homeowners know about IPM and selecting a service provider?
According to the Professional Landcare Network (PLANET), IPM is a program designed to create a healthy lawn with sufficient plant strength and density to survive weed, insect, and disease attacks with minimum pesticide use.
“IPM uses biological, cultural, and chemical tactics to achieve a healthy lawn. It’s a balancing act,” explains PLANET President Jim Martin. “Landscape and lawn care professionals have the necessary knowledge and experience to properly employ IPM techniques.”
An IPM program requires the support of proper cultural practices including:
- Proper mowing and watering practices.
- Core aeration designed to promote root development.
- Programmed seeding, sodding, plugging, or sprigging to enhance lawn density.
- Fertilization to provide essential nutrients when needed.
- pH balancing treatments (lime or sulphur) for proper soil acidity levels and improved nutrient absorption.
- Regular inspection of lawn areas for early detection of pest presence.
IPM definitions vary among service providers. PLANET recommends that homeowners ask prospective companies about their IPM definitions, procedures, techniques, and costs.
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