By Blake Jackson
The University of Missouri (MU) and Lincoln University (LU) Extension will host a free workshop focused on holistic pest and disease management for fruit and vegetable crops.
The event is scheduled for Monday, July 14, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Columbia Center for Urban Agriculture, located at 1769 Ash St., Columbia.
The evening will begin with a presentation on integrated pest management (IPM) strategies aimed at reducing dependency on synthetic fungicides and insecticides, according to Justin Keay, MU Extension horticulturist.
“Scouting and identifying pests, and understanding their life cycles, is the first step in developing a management plan that enables growers to reduce inputs and crop damage and protect pollinators and beneficial insects,” Keay said.
Following the classroom session, participants will embark on a twilight tour of the center’s 10-acre urban farm. The tour will focus on practical techniques for pest control and how to develop a comprehensive IPM plan.
Leading the tour and discussions will be Keay, MU and LU urban entomologist Emily Althoff, LU plant pathologist Waana Kaluwasha, and Peng Tian, director of the MU Plant Diagnostic Clinic.
“During this twilight tour, plant pathologists and entomologist will offer insights and share resources to help attendees develop resilient crop production systems,” Keay said.
Register at MU Extension Events. For questions, contact Keay at justin.keay@missouri.edu or 573-324-5464.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-joshua-resnick
Categories: Missouri, Crops, Fruits and Vegetables