The use of biopesticides has become a common practice in many horticultural crop protection programs. Biopesticides are effective tools in integrated pest management (IPM) programs for helping to manage resistance to synthetic chemical pesticides and reduce worker and environmental exposure to synthetic pesticides.

Multiple studies have documented the development of resistance by pathogen and pest populations to chemical pesticides. Conversely, the risks of developing resistance to biopesticides are extremely low -- even as biopesticide use continues to increase.  

The efficacy of each synthetic pesticide developed over the past 60 years is generally based on one mode of action (MOA) that disrupts or inhibits a specific biochemical pathway or biological function of the target pest. Continuous, extensive and intensive use of synthetic pesticides can inflict very strong and widespread selective pressure on pest and pathogen populations, resulting in rapid emergence of resistant or tolerant pests and pathogens. This phenomenon is also commonly experienced with human and veterinary pathogens where antibiotics have been used extensively, and, often, unnecessarily. In fact, pesticides are grouped into classes based on their MOAs, and end-users are specifically instructed not to over-use certain classes of chemical pesticides. 

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No matter what the size of your growing operation is, it is important to prepare for the coming season. In fact, proper preparation can be the key to your success! 

In this GrowerTalks article, Roger McGaughey points out some proactive measures to help ensure a successful crop, including treating plants with nematodes for thrips and RootShield for root disease prevention. 

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