Join the Community IPM Program

Learn how to incorporate Integrated Pest Management into your yard and garden

This work is supported by the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture, Crop Protection and Pest Management Program through the North Central IPM Center (2022-70006-38001).

What is IPM?

Integrated Pest Management is a science-based approach that combines a variety of techniques. By studying their life cycles and how pests interact with the environment, you can manage pests more effectively and reduce risks to your family and the environment. A synergistic approach to pest management will ultimately be more effective over the long-term. For example: Plant Flowers > Attract Pollinators > Attract Birds > Fewer Ticks

IPM Seasonal Integration

Understand how seasonal cycles can support integrated pest management in ways that require less effort and offer more effective results. Examples include proper care of a garden at the end of the growing season to prevent pests such as using mulch and cover crop and providing overwintering habitat for pollinators such as leaving the stems and strategic placement of leaves, branches and grass piles.

IPM with Pollinators

Develop an understanding of the role that pollinators play in effective pest management. Learn to identify and attract beneficial insects with pollinator friendly plants and understand the consequences of using chemical pesticides. Observe where pollinators emerge after winter and do not disturb them, for example ground nesting bees. Recognize the difference between native bees and honey bees.

Proactive Solutions for IPM

Recognize pests and identify alternative solutions. Anticipate pest problems before they occur. Effective planning can minimize the presence of unwanted pests. Observe wildlife patterns (deer, rabbits, voles, marmots) to identify animal behavior and determine where protection is needed for effective fencing or strategic placement of plants to deter pests from the area. Observation before action is more effective in the long term.

IPM in the Garden

Alternative gardening modalities and growing methods including no till, companion planting, vertical growing, raised beds and living fences. Advantages of vertical growing include that symptoms of disease and evidence of pests are more visible and can be addressed sooner. Raised beds have fewer weeds, require less watering, increase yields and reduce pest and disease pressure. Start or purchase seedlings to provide earlier pest control in the garden. Learn which stages of plant development are susceptible to pests. Research which plants can be planted to grow that will draw unwanted insects away from plants you want to protect.

IPM Property Maintenance

Discourage pests using non-chemical methods. Develop proactive strategies to minimize all types of pests including insects, deer, rabbits, marmots, racoons and invasive plants by planting native plants, building effective fencing, targeted grazing, and proper composting.