Figure I.

The three components of integrated pest management. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) depends upon: (i) monitoring pest populations; (ii) using nonchemical and limited chemical control methods; and (iii) evaluating and re-evaluating results to maintain effective program standards. While all three major components of IPM are equally important, control measures are the active component of the management strategies. Manipulation of host plants, pests, and the environment require specific measures such as physical and biological control or behavior modification of pests, and alternating between heat and cold, irrigating and flooding, or the planting of refugia for beneficial organisms. All strategies have the goal of leading to safer and more effective pest control.