Integrated Pest Management

In the 1960s and 1970s, efforts to boost crop production emphasised the use of agro-chemicals, such as fertilisers and pesticides. But in the 1980s, some negative consequences from the over-use of chemical pesticides became apparent, with insects acquiring resistance and health problems arising for both farmers and consumers. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) came in response, encouraging a broader range of methods to keep pest damage to a reasonable level. Methods included cultural controls, such as weeding, intercropping and crop rotation, use of natural pest enemies and botanical pesticides, and limited use of chemicals. Above all, IPM stressed the need for farmers to understand the ecology of pests on their farm and therefore be able to respond appropriately to pest attack. This resource pack provides an overview of the IPM philosophy and many of the methods used.

Technical information, pack usage details, resources and full scripts (PDF Format)

What is IPM? 4’51”

An explanation that IPM uses a combination of strategies to manage pests

Controlling aphids on brassicas 4’48”

Helpful tips on cultural and biological control of aphids

Double benefits from cultural control 4’11”

An overview of methods, including tillage, weeding and crop rotation

The magic of marigolds 3’19”

How brightly coloured marigolds can protect your vegetables

Garlic – a natural insect repellent 4’24”

Strong smelling garlic can drive pests from your crops

Fighting mite with mite 4’44”

Using a predatory mite to control cassava green mite

Chemical pesticides – good and bad practice 5’29”

Advice on choosing, mixing and applying chemical pesticides

Thresholds – knowing when to act 5’21”

To control pests, farmers must learn to identify and count them

A natural pesticide from tephrosia 4’34”

How to make a natural pesticide from tephrosia, chilli and soap

IPM training for women 4’59”

Why training groups of women farmers in IPM is important