Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies

Pest species include unwelcome plants, weeds, as well as some insects and animals. While the management of these diverse pests may appear to be vastly different, one strategy is appropriate for all. Healthy and diverse habitats can act to shade out unwanted plant species. These same habitats create the conditions conducive to supporting animals which predate animal and insect species that damage crops and amenity. These healthy diverse habitats take many years to mature into a forest ecosystem capable of filling these roles.

In the short term, there are a number of readily identifiable ways in which weeds can be suppressed, including removal and mulching. These measures will provide the time for tree canopies to develop.

Very few properties have habitat trees remaining with adequate hollows for nesting of species which act to manage pests of the four and six leg variety. Provision of safe and relevant nesting options as an IPM strategy can dramatically benefit farm outcomes.

Wildlife nest boxes are best made from wood or exterior ply 15mm or thicker to adequately provide thermal insulation and durability. Experience has shown installing a minimum of three or four boxes for species such as Sugar Gliders, Parrots and Antichinus, three to four metres above ground ensures greatest success rates.

For growers of macadamias and coffee, one common pest can cause excessive crop loss. Rats. On non-organic farms where poison baits are laid, losses between 20 and 30% of the finished crop due to rats are not uncommon. Organic producers can lose up to half their crop.

An innovative and successful IPM strategy is the accommodating of the rats’ fiercest predator – the owl. Siting nest boxes within the plantation has been shown to provide comprehensive pest reduction. A recent study by the University of New England found a reduction of crop loss from 30% to just 5%, all through the incorporation of owls in a nest box.

Due to the height at which Owl nest boxes need to be sited, we at EarthScapes recommend engaging a professional team, such as Owlbnb.

Contact greg@earthscapes.com.au for more information on how you can incorporate IPM into your property management.