An Introduction to Disease and Pest Management in Vegetable Crops

This comprehensive presentation offers an introduction to the fundamental aspects of plant pests and diseases. The session covered a broad spectrum of topics, beginning with an overview of the primary types of plant diseases, including bacterial, fungal, viral, and abiotic diseases, as well as the identification and management of insect pests that commonly affect plants. During the classroom portion, participants learned how to recognize the symptoms and characteristics of these various disease types and pest issues.

Following the classroom instruction, participants transitioned to a hands-on field exercise where they practiced identifying and distinguishing among bacterial, fungal, and abiotic plant damage. In the field, they worked closely with the instructor, examining real-life examples of plant health issues that are prevalent in the region and specifically impactful for local organic vegetable production. Together, the group discussed these examples in detail, exploring both how to identify these common pest and disease issues and strategies for managing them, including whether intervention is needed and, if so, how to apply organic methods of pest and disease control.

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