The concept of integrated pest management (IPM) was developed to promote an approach complementary to the environment and non-target organisms by reducing sole reliance on synthetic pesticides to control pests. However, some of our implemented cultural and biological control practices may negatively impact non-target organisms and the rhizosphere. A clear understanding of such effects helps us develop more targeted IPM protocols that contribute to the sustainability of our production systems.
Biofumigation and soil arthropods:
The soil incorporation of plants from the Brassicaceae family (i.e., soil-incorporated cover crop) or their products (e.g., defatted seed meal soil amendments) is often used to manage soil pests (pathogens, insects, and weeds) in organic and conventional production systems. However, they are also known to negatively impact beneficial organisms such as entomopathogenic nematodes, soil microbial communities, and arthropods which are critical in decomposition processes and soil health.
Our ongoing projects investigate the effects of different mustard species on soil-dwelling pests and beneficial organisms and the recovery time of the soil microbial and arthropod communities following biofumigation. We also work to identify rotational crops that contribute to preserving soil health, especially in organic production systems with different field histories, climates, and soil physical and biological attributes.
