Show the locations of trees, shrubs, garbage storage, water sources, and other features of the surrounding area that may attract or harbor pests or foster pest buildup. Detection and Monitoring Devices. Simple hand lenses help identify some insects and plant diseases. Special devices and tools are available to detect and monitor insects in some crops. These include pheromone traps and other attractants, light traps, and sticky traps.
Pheromone traps are available for key nursery insects, including pine tip moth and Japanese beetle.
This will allow detection of changes in the insect activity, help determine when to treat, and verify the success or failure of pest management measures. Disease diagnosis may require sample testing to determine which pathogen is present. D. Establishing Thresholds for Action. Pest management decisions should be based on the abundance of pests and the plant s tolerance to damage. Ultimately, the decision depends on the cost versus the benefit of treatment.