Integrated Pest Mgmt for the Home Garden

Learn how to accurately identify your home garden problems -- is it caused by an insect, plant disease, or something else entirely? Then learn how to treat those issues using the least-toxic yet effective methods available. This class will introduce the principles of IPM—the management of garden and landscape pest problems with the least environmental impact! Topics covered will include the basics of plant diseases and insect damage, proper siting and cultivation of plants to prevent/minimize problems, and the importance of scouting and early detection. Seasonality of pest infestations, approaches to diagnosis, and treatment options using the Integrated Pest Management method will be explored. Students will receive a list of resources for further study and additional information. INSTRUCTOR: George Peach has trained in horticulture, plant pathology, and entomology at the Ohio State University and Columbus State Community College. In addition to IPM, he teaches courses in gardening for pollinators, gardening for birds, native plants and garden/landscape design. George has volunteer horticulture experience in both outdoor and greenhouse venues with a number of area garden and arboretum organizations. He recently retired from his landscape design and installation practice.