Page 18 - Spring Catalog 2022 Final

Top 5 things homeowners should know

1. Right plant right place – Choosing the right plant for
the spot you are planting means that plant will thrive in
the location you have chosen with less maintenance. This
sets it up for a healthy life.

2. Proper planting depth and mulching – Most trees and
shrubs that I come across are planted too deep. This results
in weak plants that are starved for water and nutrients
and eventually leads to a decline in their health as well as
Ask the Experts As people spend more time in their yards other problems such as root and trunk rot. Mulch should

and gardens, we’ve had a lot of customers be spread around the root zone to a depth of 2-3 inches to
asking about pest control. Dealing with protect the root system but don’t let it pile up around the
and understanding nature’s littlest creatures trunk of the plant.
WHAT IS INTEGRATED PEST is a surprisingly complex topic, so we’ve 3. Proper watering – Watering less often, for longer

asked local expert, Chad Thomas—owner
MANAGEMENT? of Cape Cod Plant Doctor, to walk us periods of time, will soak the soil to a deeper level and
promote a deeper, healthier root system. This results in a
through the basics.
plant that is able to better resist drought and pest damage.
What is Integrated Pest Management (IPM)? Watering for shorter periods of time more often will result
Integrated Pest Management is an approach to pest management that focuses on in a shallow root system and a plant that is more prone to
managing host stress and reducing pest populations to a tolerable level, rather than stress, especially from heat and drought.
the eradication of an insect, disease or weed pest. This is accomplished using
multiple tactics including cultural, mechanical, biological and chemical controls. This also applies to lawns! For example, you are much
better off watering once a day, 2-3 times a week
There are many steps in an IPM program but in short, it includes these steps: (depending on weather) for longer run times per zone
· Scouting and identification of plants and potential pests. than watering 3 times a day, every day for 15 minutes per
· Monitoring plants and pest levels
· Deciding if any management is needed and if so, what that will be zone. This practice also conserves water.
Why is IPM important for our yards and the environment?
A few examples of pest management In short, it reduces the use and reliance on pesticides and 4. Always read the label – Always read and follow the
options look like this: takes into consideration their potential impact on our label of any pesticides you are using. All of the important
Cultural – Practices that promote healthy plants that are better environment and encourages us to think about other safety and usage information is on that label including
able to resist stress from insect, disease or natural problems such management techniques for pest problems. It also promotes how to properly use it as well as how not to use it. The
as drought. Selecting the right plant for the site, planting and proper plant selection and care. label is the law.
watering properly, selecting pest resistant species.
If I grow my own fruits and veggies, can I practice IPM in
Mechanical – Pruning to remove diseased or insect infested my garden? Of course! Everything in this article can be 5. Organic and natural products are still pesticides –
plant parts. Cleaning up and removing diseased leaves. Removing applied to the home garden. They still have the potential for negative environmental and
insects (such as the lily leaf beetle) by hand. Biological – Using health related impacts and should be respected as such.
natural enemies to manage a pest. Predators and parasites such as Tips for IPM at home: Always read labels carefully and don’t think that just because
predatory mites or parasitic nematodes can be released to · Proper planting and plant selection are critical. something is organic it is safe to use without caution.
manage certain insects.
· Smart watering—water at the base of plants instead of
Chemical – The use of pesticides to manage pest populations. overhead to reduce disease. If you are interested in IPM-focused plant health care and other
This includes all types of pesticides—insect, fungus, microbial, · Select disease resistant varieties when possible. Inspect your services for your property contact Cape Cod Plant Doctor:
herbicide. However, pesticides used in an IPM program are plants often to catch any pests early. www.capecodplantdoctor.com
chosen based on having the lowest risk to health and the
environment while still being effective. Biorational pesticides · Some beneficial insects can be used to manage pests in your
such as horticultural and neem oil for example, or BTK for home garden. Lady bugs for aphid control is one example
caterpillars are usually the first choice over a stronger insecticide. and they can be purchased from Agway.
of Cape Cod