Many farming methods have been created that help develop healthy crops and control pests. Healthy soil brought on by crop rotation and composted manure help to replenish the nutrients in the soil and respect the balance of microorganisms and minerals. Composted manure decomposes more slowly, in turn releasing nitrogen into the soil at a slower rate, becoming a better soil builder.
Pests and disease are best combated by healthy plants, which are built from healthy soil. Plant selection is integral to healthy soil. By selecting plants compatible with the climate, the plants will thrive creating a rich, nutrient-filled healthy soil. If that method does not work, farmers choose from traps, barriers, mating disruption and introducing an insect’s natural predator to the environment. The predator will not destroy the crop but will prey upon the insects. Under STRICT guidelines, if none of these additional methods work, botanical and other non-persistent pest control are acceptable. These are derived from plant sources (botanical) and breakdown quickly in oxygen and water (non-persistent).
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