Insect pests were much more commonly mentioned by vegetable than citrus growers as a problem. Vegetable growers mentioned a very wide range of disease problems. This may be due to a lack of effective organic control mechanisms. Cultural practices play an important role in pest management for organic vegetable producers. Virtually all growers regard applications of fish emulsion as a pest management and nutrient management practice.
Growers often mention maintaining good plant nutrition as a key element in pest management.
Weed management was a serious consideration for both citrus and vegetable producers. Manual cultivation may occur as many as five or six times during the growing season. Similarly, most citrus producers hire help to hand cultivate at least once per year, and a few hand cultivate up to four times per year. The potential energy savings from reduced pesticide use on conventional vegetable farms are relatively great. Both organic and conventional vegetable producers could benefit from the development of improved weed management techniques.