Organic regulations prohibit many common approaches to managing weeds, harmful insects, and pathogens.

In an organic system, management of these pests begins with healthy soil and a sound organic system (rotations, cover crops, compost).

Cultural practices can also be employed – for example, organic mulches or cultivation for weeds, and benficial-insect habitat or trap crops for insects.

Finally, many pesticides are allowed under organic regulations – but should be used as part of an integrated pest management (IPM) strategy, and with appropriate precautions (see slideshow below). (“Just because it’s organic, doesn’t mean it’s safe!”)

Know your enemy: pest identification is crucial to successful management.