Integrated pest management in practice — pathways towards successful application

Abstract Examples from perennial and annual crops in temperate and tropical conditions are used to illustrate the research and development approaches that have contributed to use and integration of host plant resistance and biological, cultural and chemical controls. The evidence shows how successes in IPM have depended upon classical experimental approaches continually responding to changing constraints and to novel discoveries, which are being applied increasingly efficiently and intelligently to farm practice. Future developments are discussed in the context of past experience and new technologies. Recent developments of important new approaches that could help revolutionize management of some pest complexes, in particular genetic engineering, semiochemicals and bioinsecticides, are discussed. Much attention has been devoted to strategic modelling in the IPM context which aims to provide novel insights, but there is little evidence of its value to practical IPM; instead it could be used unwisely to encourage accumulation of unnecessary information. In contrast, tactical models are proving increasingly valuable in forecasting the need for and timing of applied controls. Whilst there have been some outstanding developments in practical application of IPM in many developed countries where the ultimate goal is to decrease over-reliance on conventional insecticides, evidence shows that in many developing countries, where the goal is an ecologically sound mix of non-chemical and chemical methods, there remains a crucial need for much more appropriate research and implementation, especially in small farm conditions.