IPM includes all the pest control techniques by integrating appropriate measures that discourage the development of pest populations and keep pesticides and other interventions to levels that are economically justified and reduce or minimize risks to human health and the environment. A careful evaluation of each pest infestation is the first step of IPM. The life cycle of the pest, nature of the damage caused by the pest, predators, effects of weather and other such factors are considered before a control plan is implemented.
For example:
(i) Weeds like Queen Anne's lace (Daucus carota) or can dwell beneficial insects such as lacewing or lady beetle larvae that help keep aphid and other pest populations at tolerable levels.
(ii) Clover growing in a lawn may be viewed as an unwanted weed, but as a legume it is synthesizing nitrogen for the soil and the flowers are providing nectar to honey bees and other pollinators. Therefore, tolerance for some weeds may be part of an IPM plan.
(iii) A woodpecker makes holes in the trunk of a peach tree, but at the same time it feeds on the insect larvae that may cause more damage to the tree. IPM is an integral component of crop management which looks at all aspects necessary to grow a crop. The control options are usually a combination of physical, biological and chemical aspects to manage crops pests and diseases.
