Recently, we talked about the integrated pest management program in our greenhouses. Just to recap, integrated pest management, or IPM for short, is a term used in horticulture to describe best-practice pest control. Growers look to find the most effective and sustainable method of control. This can be achieved with chemical or biological controls and by basic sanitization and scouting. What does this mean for you?

There are a few key ways you can prevent pest problems with your plants. Although it may sound difficult, you can create your own integrated pest management program with ease!

1. Scout regularly. Scouting each week while you are watering your plants can help you to catch pests before the population gets out of hand. Then, you can quarantine the plant and ask for help from our care team!

2. Quarantine new additions. Pests must come from somewhere. Most of the time, they come in on new plants. We suggest quarantining new plants for at least two weeks before adding them to the shelf with others.

3. Practice sanitization. There are many ways you can practice sanitization in your home! If you know that a plant has a problem, wash your hands between handling plants. Sterilize cutting tools with rubbing alcohol before making cuts. Wash out drip saucers and humidity trays monthly with soap and hot water. 

4. Utilize sound resources. If you are using the internet to help diagnose symptoms, it can be tricky to find solid assistance. Published information is best but can be difficult to find with information about the latest houseplants. Our care team is always here to answer your questions! You can reach out at plantcare@wildinteriors.com.

5. Alter growing conditions to help treat. Most of the time, you can alter conditions like light levels, air circulation, moisture and humidity to control or prevent pest outbreaks. Depending on the pest, rather than using a chemical that may not work, it’s best to simply adjust!

When all else fails, tossing the plant may be safer, cheaper and easier than treatment. However, hopefully you try integrated pest management out for yourself!