Integrated Pest Management IPM Field characterisation.

In order to work on integrated pest management it is necessary to have a detailed characterisation of the field. It is very important to know which problems directly affect the field. Routine work should be avoided, and the motivation for the whole field management should be specified.

Characterising the field is the most important step in saving resources.

In each study area, all existing constraints should be identified. It is very important to note any variables that lead to less vigorous growth and to take effective measures to alleviate the problems encountered, for example:

• Areas of shadow.
  The low concentration of PAR (photosynthetically active light) on a high-yield surface is one of the main problems. There are instruments that allow to know in a very concrete way the PAR (photosynthetically active light) concentration on a high yielding surface. PAR of the surface. Universities all over the world have been working to find out what the light requirements of each species are. Although it is true that the varieties can differ markedly from each other. Travis Russell, PhD from the University of Arkansas, conducted an interesting study on the light needs of each species. dissertation on light requirements. It defines the quality of the plant cover made up of different varieties depending on the PAR received.
• Optimal species for localisation.
  Finding the best turf for the site is an important task in order to reduce maintenance costs. So it is important to rotate at the right time and with the right species for the climate in which you are working.
• Areas with poor air circulation.
  Slopes, buildings or ornamental areas can hinder a constant renewal of air. Good air circulation makes it easier for the leaf to dry out after morning dew or after watering. Keeping the leaf reasonably dry is essential to prevent damage from fungi and pathogenic bacteria. When the obstacle cannot be overcome, outdoor fans can be used. Drying the grass blades is also recommended before fertiliser application. Soluble forms of nitrogen and potassium can cause serious burns.
• Soil fertility, compaction and drainage.
  In new construction, neither infiltration nor drainage should be a problem. Sometimes soil pores can become clogged with micro-particles that do not allow proper drainage. On the other hand, extremes in fertility as well as extremes in pH or salinity are synonymous with problem plants and more problems with diseases.

  Special care must be taken with organic amendments, it is very important to always use stabilised mulches, compost or humus to ensure the absence of pathogens.

• Programmed cultural activities
  Check the condition of the machinery, the sharpness of the mowers, the type of tyres used and whether the operators are fully familiar with the use of the machinery.
• Land use
  Each type of area has different quality requirements and these must be specifically defined. The appropriate use of resources for each type of area is essential. Although this is generally well resolved.

The digital notebook TurfKeeper is a tool that makes the work of the maintenance manager extremely easy. It allows to know and reduce the costs of each of the items. It also facilitates the control of personnel and consumables.

There may be more than one microclimate on a single property, with the most unknown areas being the most vulnerable.

On the other hand, not all fields have the same pests, it is important to characterise them as they appear in the field. This is a task that requires years of observation, as not all pests attack every year. If a pest is not recognisable, it is necessary to call in experts or laboratories to help us in this task.

It is also important not only to recognising the pestif not to know its impact. There are tools that can help to do this, but if resources or time are a constraint on ownership, it is sufficient to estimate the impact on a scale defined by the maintenance team. The use of weather stations is a strong ally in synchronising with the cycle of diseases that frequently invade the property, as most pests are tied to climatic conditions and growth patterns exist. By modelling the cycle, it is possible to forecast the occurrence and determine the threshold of damage prior to action. Some software are free of charge developed by universities and others are complements to products such as weather stations. Davis o Spectrum.

For example Rick Brandenburg An entomologist specialising in turfgrass at the University of North Carolina explained in a 1998 article the most critical moments in the cycle of different insects.

Degree of importance as a pest: * = major pest, frequent occurrence; ** = generally present, but usually not a pest; *** = occasional pest, treat when detected.
Preferred grass species: A = Centipedegrass, fescue, and many other grasses; B = St. Augustine; C = Fescue; D = Bluegrass; E = Bermudagrass; F = Zoysiagrass; G = Bentgrass; H = Bahiagrass.
Performance: S = Sprays; Gr = Granules; Ba = baits; M = Maintain healthy turf.

In addition, Richard Latin, professor of plant pathology at Purin University, helped determine the approximate timing of various fungal diseases.

Severity: X: Little danger; XX: Caution; XXX; Great danger

What appears to be a methodical and thorough job is essential for integrated pest management. The field notebook where everything is recorded is gold for the property and should be completed throughout the life of the field as it will make it easier for the maintenance team to know where they are working.

At Tiloom we can help you with the distribution of all kinds of technologies aimed at improving the quality of the land, including integrated pest management.