Pests, Diseases and Weed Control
Identify common pests and use safe, integrated control methods.
Pests, diseases and weeds reduce yields and profits.
- Name common crop pests and diseases.
- Compare control methods.
- Explain integrated pest management.
Pests and Diseases
Pests include insects (aphids, stem borers), rodents, birds and nematodes. Diseases are caused by fungi, bacteria, viruses and nematodes. Weeds compete for light, water and nutrients.
Control Methods
- Cultural — rotation, timely planting, weeding, resistant varieties.
- Biological — natural enemies and predators.
- Chemical — pesticides used carefully and sparingly.
- Mechanical — traps, hand-picking and cultivation.
Integrated Pest Management
IPM combines several methods and uses chemicals only when necessary. This reduces cost, protects beneficial insects and slows resistance.
Read the label and wear protective clothing.
Spray in the early morning or evening when it is calm.
Wash hands and clothes afterwards and store chemicals out of reach of children.
Practice
- Name three common crop pests.
- Distinguish cultural and chemical control.
- Explain one benefit of integrated pest management.
Recap
Pests, diseases and weeds reduce yield. Combine cultural, biological and chemical methods safely, with chemicals as a last resort.
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Farm Management and Sustainability
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