A new study published in the Journal of Integrated Pest Management provides insight into the insect pest challenges facing tree fruit growers across the eastern United States. Researchers from the University of Georgia, the University of Massachusetts Amherst, the University of Minnesota, Cornell University, Michigan State University, the University of Wisconsin–Madison, North Carolina State University, Penn State, Rutgers University, and the USDA Agricultural Research Service, along with collaborators from other institutions, surveyed commercial apple and peach growers to identify the insects causing the greatest economic impact, evaluate how integrated pest management (IPM) practices are being used, and determine where growers see the greatest need for future research and Extension programming.
The survey highlights both familiar and emerging pests while providing insight into how growers make management decisions and where they turn for trusted information. The findings can help guide future research, Extension outreach, and educational programs to better address the most pressing needs of the tree fruit industry. Readers can explore the full article to learn which pests ranked as the greatest concerns and what growers identified as their highest priorities for improving insect management.
Read the full article here.