Print This PageIntegrated Pest Management
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is used to help control pests in cotton. It utilises a combination of biological, physical and chemical controls to maximise the control or suppression of pests. The overall aim is to maintain pest numbers at a low level to minimise economic damage to the crop. No single IPM program is appropriate in all situations; each is different and will vary in the techniques used. IPM options may include:
- Use of beneficial plants such as trap cropping and refuges
- Pupae destruction to interrupt the Helicoverpa breeding cycle
- Crop rotation
- Management of beneficial insects
- Physical controls such as traps, collars, barriers
- Biological controls
- Careful application of pesticides according to label directions
Bollgard II and Integrated Pest Management (IPM)
Bollgard II has created a platform for the cotton industry’s IPM strategy. By reducing insecticide use by over 80%, the risk of Helicoverpa developing resistance to conventional chemistries has been significantly decreased.
Bollgard II enhances on farm biodiversity, allowing greater use of beneficial insects. Bollgard II has lead to a more sustainable IPM approach and provided a foundation for the rapid adoption of IPM practices.
