Don’t Ignore the Details

Jennifer Zurko

I recently read a quote by former Secretary of State Colin Powell that said, “Never neglect details. When everyone’s mind is dulled or distracted, the leader must be doubly vigilant.”

I thought about that when I was working on this month’s issue, which focuses on pest management. The more I learn about how to prevent and control insects and diseases, the more I realize that it’s all in the details and that you have to constantly be on guard—especially if you’re the head grower and/or owner.

That sounds like you’re one of the survivors in “The Walking Dead,” doesn’t it? Okay, maintaining an Integrated Pest Management program isn’t exactly like dealing with a zombie apocalypse, but it still can make the difference between a great crop and having to start from scratch after an outbreak gets out of control.

So, as in every April issue, we have lots of information about the insects and diseases you should be looking out for this year … and really every season. First, we take a look at the most common issues and update you on new prevention and control measures.

As you know, the rose rosette disease has really caused havoc on our beautiful rose bushes during the last few years. And, even though the disease has been around since the 1940s, researchers were only able to figure out the actual virus that causes it in 2011. So is it possible to grow good roses when there’s a nationwide virus? Recently, the USDA granted a 26-member group of researchers $3.3 million to figure out how to combat the disease. 

We also have tips and information on how to deal with those dreaded winged foes—fungus gnats and shore flies from two university professors, John Sanderson and Dave Smitley, who’ve been conducting research on these insects for a number of years.

And on the flipside in Green Profit, Ellen Wells wrote a really great piece on what retailers—and in turn, consumers—will be facing in the garden this season. Even if some of it doesn’t pertain to your greenhouse, I would still check it out, especially if you have outdoor production areas.

Wishing you a successful (and pest-free) spring season!