From integrated control to integrated farming, an experimental approach

Integrated control or integrated pest management (IPM), as envisaged originally, is not being practised to any large extent in arable farming, notwithstanding considerable research efforts. The reasons for this are discussed. A more basic approach called integrated farming is suggested. Preliminary results of an experimental farm at Nagele, The Netherlands, indicate that considerable savings of pesticides can be achieved along with a better income for the farmer. An overall strategy for integrated control of pests, diseases and weeds is described in general terms. It is concluded that automated guidance systems should be developed to bridge the gap between research and practice. Before their introduction, it is necessary to test and optimize these systems with the help of a pilot group of farmers.