IPM Strategies for Summer Diseases of Apple
The Food Quality Protection Act restrictions affect pest management of apples most critically during the summer when six to eight sprays are needed to control diseases. IPM strategies were developed that recommend application of the second-cover spray when 175 hours of wetness had accumulated after the first-cover spray, and application of reduced-risk and organic fungicides. The performance of the "traditional" and the "IPM" approaches were compared during 2001-2006. The IPM strategies cut cost by about 40% and pose less risk to the environment and human health, while protecting fruit yield and quality. Apple growers have already begun to implement the IPM techniques. See publications for additional information. See the slides.