A decade of integrated pest management (IPM) in brassica vegetable crops – the role of farmer participation in its development in Southern Queensland, Australia

In the mid 1980’s, management of Diamondback moth, Plutella xylostella (L.) (Lepidoptera: Plutellidae), in brassica vegetable crops was at crisis level with spray failures prevalent across the industry in Southern Queensland. Insecticide resistance to synthetic pyrethroids was identified in 1986, and resistance monitoring between 1988 and 1992 showed that problems also existed with carbamates, organochlorines and some organophosphates. A resistance management strategy was implemented in 1988 with the widespread support of industry. This strategy resulted in a summer production break, improved spray application, an understanding of resistance and the need for insecticide rotation on farm. Development work with Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt), crop scouting, shelterbelts and natural enemies of pests expanded the emerging integrated pest management (IPM) system over the next few years. A joint project between Australia and China to improve IPM in brassica vegetable crops commenced in 1995. The aim of the project is twofold; to expand the tools base available to growers by investigating critical areas within the IPM system (pest forecasting, monitoring, action thresholds, spray application, natural enemies, decision aids); and to continue industry participation in the development of practical IPM systems, using action learning and adult education principles. This paper gives an overview of the research, development and extension work with pest management in brassica vegetable crops in Southern Queensland over the last ten years. In particular it discusses the evolution of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) systems in the region and examines the changing role of farmers in developing these systems for managing and avoiding insecticide resistance in P. xylostella.