Pecan IPM Toolbox
Introduction
Interdisciplinary Roles
Horticulture
The cultural aspects of IPM are directed at improving the health and yield potential of pecan trees. Cultural recommendations are basic building blocks that are often dictated by factors such as age and vigor of the orchard, tree spacing and varieties grown.
Plant Pathology
The pathology aspect of IPM also works to improve and maintain tree health through disease prevention. Sanitation, variety selection, good cultural practices and fungicides must all be employed in the disease prevention program.
Entomology
Entomology components seek to manage insect and mite pests. Insect foliage feeders indirectly reduce the current season's crop as well as those of succeeding years by weakening the tree's ability to produce food for nuts. Nut feeders directly affect the number and quality of pecans produced in the current year.
Summary of Roles
Horticulture, then, promotes the general health and productive capacity of the tree. The disciplines of plant pathology and entomology work to prevent the deterioration of this productive capacity.
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