By Blake Jackson
Small-scale vegetable growers are invited to take part in an online educational program focused on managing pests early in the growing season. The Integrated Pest Management Program 2026 will host a Vegetable Pest Management Webinar titled “Pests on Small Farms: Start Right with Early Season IPM” on Thursday, February 12, 2026, from 10:00 to 11:30 a.m. The session will be conducted via Zoom.
The webinar will be led by Dr. Anitha Chitturi, State Extension Specialist in Integrated Pest Management, who will share practical, research-based guidance designed specifically for small farms. The program emphasizes the importance of early-season planning to reduce pest pressure and protect vegetable crops throughout the year.
Topics to be covered include preparing farms prior to planting, understanding early-season IPM fundamentals, identifying key pests that emerge early, and addressing pest challenges across a range of vegetable crops.
This educational event is well suited for beginning and experienced growers, agricultural educators, and service providers interested in sustainable pest management approaches. Registration is available by scanning the QR code on the event flyer.
Reasonable accommodations will be provided for individuals with disabilities or special needs. The program is organized by Lincoln University Cooperative Extension with support from the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-joshua-resnick
Categories: Missouri, Crops, Fruits and Vegetables