How much more valuable would greenhouse employees be if they could identify potential pest or disease problems? Those workers who conduct routine tasks such as watering, spacing and pinching plants would be even more valued if they could also recognize a pest infestation or disease symptoms.
Univ. of Conn. extension horticulturist and greenhouse IPM specialist Leanne Pundt said one early pest or disease treatment or identifying a problem before disastrous consequences would more than pay for the training costs. Learning to recognize the basic pests, their various life cycles and their natural enemies is a valuable skill for all greenhouse employees. She said it would also be beneficial for more seasoned employees to receive occasional refresher training.
Pundt has prepared a new PowerPoint slide show that can be used to train employees. This extensive presentation includes pictures and descriptions to help identify some common insects and some beneficial insects on sticky cards.
Pictured: By training greenhouse employees to scout for pests and diseases, plant losses and treatments could be minimized.