Traditional landscape pest management relies on pesticide rotation, which can lead to environmental and health concerns, as well as pesticide resistance. In response, consumers have increasingly sought alternative pest control methods over the past two decades.
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) has emerged as a sustainable solution, combining chemical and nonchemical strategies to maintain pest populations at acceptable levels while reducing resistance and environmental impact. IPM emphasizes a science-based approach to pest control that integrates biological, cultural, physical, and chemical methods to minimize environmental impact while effectively managing pests. The study assesses consumer familiarity with these principles, identifying key areas where additional education and outreach efforts could improve adoption rates.
Results of this study suggest that while some consumers recognize the benefits of IPM, misconceptions and knowledge gaps persist, particularly regarding the use of non-chemical control methods and decision-making processes for pest management. The study highlights the need for targeted educational initiatives to promote a broader understanding of IPM strategies and encourage their implementation in residential and community settings.
By enhancing consumer knowledge of IPM, this research contributes to ongoing efforts to reduce reliance on chemical pesticides, improve public health, and support sustainable agriculture and urban pest control. The findings serve as a foundation for developing more effective communication strategies to bridge knowledge gaps and promote responsible pest management practices.
According to the author, "Data in this study came from a survey examining consumer willingness to pay for a scouting program offered by a landscaper. Results show consumers are willing to pay for scouting programs and other IPM-related services. We are continuing to determine how much consumers are willing to pay for IPM-grown plants, while concurrently determining willingness to pay for IPM-based landscape services. Both research lines provide marketing opportunities for green industry producers to highlight their efforts to grow their products sustainably and cost-effectively."
This article is part of a larger research project by PhD student Drew Jeffers. His research focuses on using pest management as a marketing strategy for green industry producers and landscape professionals. Drew saw the opportunity to expand the audience for integrated pest management (IPM) to homeowners.
Dr. White is a professor and Nursery Extension Specialist in the Department of Plant & Environmental Sciences at Clemson University. Her lab currently focuses on use of floating treatment wetlands to manage nutrients in ponds and reservoirs - both for farm water and urban storm water management.
Drew Jeffers is currently a PhD student at Clemson University. He is a Horticulture Agent and County Coordinator with Clemson University Cooperative Extension, where he specializes in ornamental plant production, integrated pest management (IPM), and sustainable landscape practices.
The full article can be read on the ASHS HortTech electronic Journal website at: https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTTECH05586-24
Established in 1903, the American Society for Horticultural Science is recognized around the world as one of the most respected and influential professional societies for horticultural scientists. ASHS is committed to promoting and encouraging national and international interest in scientific research and education in all branches of horticulture.
Comprised of thousands of members worldwide, ASHS represents a broad cross-section of the horticultural community-scientists, educators, students, landscape and turf managers, government, extension agents and industry professionals. ASHS members focus on practices and problems in horticulture: breeding, propagation, production and management, harvesting, handling and storage, processing, marketing and use of horticultural plants and products. To learn more, visit ashs.org.
