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PEST AND DISEASE CONTROL

This is one of the most critical elements in export horticulture: -

  • because of the need for producers to deliver unblemished top quality vegetables which satisfy the demands of European markets;
  • because of fears of pesticide residues through improper use of agrochemicals, which can put food safety at risk.

Wherever possible Integrated Pest Management methods should be used. IPM methods are a combination of: -

  • cultural methods (e.g. crop rotations to prevent build up of pests, buffer strips to reduce their spread);
  • biological controls (e.g. introduction of natural enemies of insect or bacterial pests which destroy or limit the impact of the pests); and
  • chemical methods (insecticidal and other crop sprays) which should be used only as a last resort because of the environmental risks and high costs involved.

If agrochemical sprays have to be applied: -

  • only approved formulations should be used;
  • finance should be available to enable farmers to obtain the required quantities of agrochemical, application equipment and protective clothing;
  • training and advice should be provided to ensure that recommended application procedures and controls are rigorously followed;
  • chemical applications should be carefully recorded to allow any errors to be accurately traced to their source;
  • greatest care should be taken with disposal of empty containers or outdated chemicals.

More Information: Safe use of agrochemicals; pest and disease control websites.

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Natural Resources Institute 2003