Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is a common sense approach to managing pests. Landscapes are monitored regularly, problems properly identified, severity considered, control options evaluated; and then, selected least-toxic control(s) are implemented
Main IPM Messages
- Accurately diagnose problems before considering any treatment
- Use least-toxic solutions when addressing landscape problems
- Don’t apply fertilizer or pesticides before a rain
- Don’t kill every bug – 95% of insects are not pests
- Use pesticides as a last resort
- Always read and follow pesticide label instructions
- Encourage beneficial insects
- If you follow Grow Green practices you already practice IPM!
Developers
Learn more about common Austin pests and how to treat them.
Pest prevention and remedy options include:
- Cultural - plant native and well-adapted, pest-resistant plant varieties, and keep them healthy
- Diagnostic - properly identify the problem
- Mechanical – hand remove insects, use water blasts, traps, and/or barriers
- Biological - recognize, encourage and/or introduce beneficial predators in your landscape
- Chemical – if you must use a pesticide use the least toxic product first; always read and follow label directions
Click here for answers to frequently asked questions
Additional Contacts
- Developers and City Staff, John Clement 512-974-1475
- Grow Green - Home Gardeners and Landscape Professionals, Denise Delaney 512-974-2581