2025 Greenhouse Hands-on IPM In-depth

• 10:30-11 a.m.: Registration
• 11-11:15 a.m.: Intro
• 11:15 a.m.-12:15 p.m.: The Doctor Is In
• 12:15-12:50 p.m.: Lunch Break
• 1-4:10 p.m.: Rotate through module topics
  Each module will be offered three times. Everyone will have an opportunity to attend all the modules.
  • 1-2 p.m.: First module
  • 2:05-3:05 p.m.: Second module
  • 3:10-4:10pm: Third module
• 4:15-4:30 p.m.: Evaluation and wrap up

In this session, we'll examine plant problems from samples that participants and speakers bring in. We'll use microscopes and references to identify the issues, then discuss appropriate management techniques and effective pesticide options. All presenters will participate in this session.

Neil Mattson, Horticulture Section, School of Integrative Plant Sciences, Cornell University

Proper fertilization is a necessity for optimum plant growth as a basis for good pest management. When preparing fertilizers it’s important to understand several aspects to make sure your plants are getting what they need without excess application leading to higher insect populations and leaching to the environment. We’ll discuss solubility, compatibility, and determining what’s in your fertilizer. Through hands on exercises we’ll practice reading a fertilizer label, best practices for mixing, and determining what fertilizers are compatible with each other. We will also discuss the use of fertigation systems to deliver registered pesticides.

Samantha Willden, Entomology, Cornell University

Biological control of insect and mite pests is a key component of any successful Integrated Pest Management (IPM) program. However, incorporating biocontrol strategies on your farm often involves experimentation to find the right 'recipe' for success. In this workshop, we’ll identify common insect and mite pests, match them with effective biocontrol agents, and explore best practices for implementation. We'll also cover how to evaluate the effectiveness of your biocontrol program and outline steps for making adjustments when needed.

Dominique Holtappels, Plant Pathology and plant Microbiology Section, School of Integrative Plant Sciences, Cornell University

What drives the development of disease in plants? In this session, we will explore the key factors that contribute to plant disease, using the foundational concept of the disease triangle. We will examine how the environment influences pathogen behavior and disease outbreaks and learn to recognize the dynamic interactions between the host, the pathogen, and the environment. Through activities and real-world examples, this session will provide insights to better understand disease development.