Integrated Pest Management for Apple Trees
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May 5, 2020
6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
The core idea behind Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is to understand the life cycles of the plants being managed and the pests and diseases that can impact them.
We monitor the phenology of our orchards as well as pests and diseases so we know what is present in our orchards at any given time. That information drives decisions about when or what to spray and more importantly when NOT to spray. By minimizing or eliminating spraying you improve the health of your food and the environment in which we live.
Geared towards backyard and beginning growers of all skill levels, whether you have 1 backyard tree or a small orchard, this monthly series of classes will include an overview of issues related to growing healthy fruit trees and controlling pests and diseases throughout the season with emphasis on the “Pest of the Month.” Each session will focus on the most relevant pest or disease you will be facing on the coming month. You will learn their life cycles and how to target the weakest link in that life cycle to help minimize or prevent damage to your fruit with little or no spraying!
We will review weekly data collected in the previous month to make informed decisions about what to prepare for in the next month and how to use the MN Department of Agriculture’s IPM weekly newsletter to find local information about what conditions are being found around the state.
Registration Includes
Instruction and all required materials. Each class will include handouts on specific topics covered that month including the “annual cycle of orchards”, meeting the culprits (recognizing specific diseases and pests), methods for monitoring and dealing with potential pests or diseases. Lots of discussion and hands-on activities, so bring your questions!
You should bring…
Bring a notebook and pens/pencils for note taking. Optional = pictures of issues, or damaged fruit or leaves themselves, but any plant material you bring MUST be in a bag so you don’t accidentally spread something undesirable!
Skill Level
No special experience required
Best for Ages…
This is primarily intended for adults, but kids 10+ can attend if accompanied by a parent.
Venue: Duluth Folk School Library
Address:
Description:
The Library is upstairs in the Duluth Folk School/Dovetail Cafe building.
Note: The Library is up one flight of stairs, and we do not have an elevator.