Integrated Pest Management Guide

FOREWORD

This manual is a reference tool designed to help cranberry growers and pest management consultants with identification, monitoring and control of key pests and diseases in cultivated cranberry fields in Western Canada.

The manual begins with several short sections explaining integrated pest management (IPM), monitoring, use of pheromone traps, insect classification and life cycles, and identification of moth larvae (caterpillars).

Following these introductory explanations are two sections describing key insect pests. The first section presents pests found during the dormant to pre-bloom stages of cranberry vines in early spring. Pests found during the summer stages of bloom and fruit sizing are described in the second section. In each section, the most common pests are presented by usual order of prevalence in cranberry beds. Less common pests are also described, because you may see them when monitoring fields. For all pests, a description of the life cycle and feeding habits is provided so that you may better understand pest biology. Details on methods and timing of monitoring for major pests will help you detect these pests in cranberry beds.

Not all insects and animals in cranberry beds are pests. Sections on pollinators and on natural enemies of insects and weeds will help you identify, encourage and protect the "good guys".

Symptoms of the most common fungal diseases seen in this region, along with the causal organisms, are presented in the section on diseases. A table demonstrating the infection periods and the timing of disease in the beds will help growers detect and manage blights, diebacks and rots.

Because the concepts of integrated pest management are based on economical and environmental aspects, special emphasis has been placed on presenting biological, behavioural, physical and cultural practices for controlling pests and protecting against diseases.

General recommendations for chemical control of insects are suggested. The 2000 Canada Cranberry Pesticide Chart and a table of products registered by the Canadian Pest Management Regulatory Agency (PMRA) are included to help growers choose appropriate insecticides. We emphasize that insecticide, fungicide and herbicide registrations change from year to year. Always read the label carefully to ensure that the chemicals you choose are registered on cranberry for the target pest, be it an insect, a disease or a weed.

The information contained in this manual was compiled from many sources, including research reports, field observations, scientific articles, books, and extension guides and manuals. A list of references, good websites and IPM resources is provided if you desire more information.

We hope that this manual will assist all concerned users and will facilitate your pest management techniques and practices.

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©2000 Minister of Public Works and Government Services Canada