OMAFRA is in the process of updating CropIPM, an integrated pest management resource to assist growers and scouts with identification of crop pests and learn about their biology and management strategies. As part of the update, new crop modules are being added. We are excited to announce that the new Sweetpotato and Lavender modules are now available online!

The resource can be found at the following link: https://cropipm.omafra.gov.on.ca/

Click on your crop of interest from the main page to get started. Each module contains a wealth of information on the insects, diseases, disorders and other pests affecting the crop. Key features include:

• Photos of the various stages of pest or symptom development
• Information on how to identify the pest and differentiate damage from other pests
• The biology and life cycle of each pest
• Cultural and chemical management strategies
• A ‘Scouting’ section that provides calendars that show when to expect each pest in the crop by month or growth stage
• Descriptions and photos of the various growth stages of the crop
• An ‘Identify’ feature that allows you to quickly narrow down the potential causes of symptoms you encounter in the field by sorting through photos

There is also a weed identification and biology section. Click on the ‘Weeds and Herbicides’ section at the top of the main page (https://cropipm.omafra.gov.on.ca/en-ca/weeds-and-herbicides).

Look for new specialty crop modules later this year including Ginseng, Hazelnuts, and Hops