The McGill University Phytotron practices Integrated Pest Management (IPM) in its pest management program. IPM is an established system whereby a combination of cultural, physical, mechanical, biological and chemical techniques are employed to effectively combat pest infestations. The following protocols have been developed from experience with pests encountered within the Phytotron and consultation with other phytotrons, university plant research growth facilities and IPM specialists. All protocols rely upon sanitation, plant health, monitoring and treatment as a basis of effective control.
Effective pest management relies on many factors including proper sanitation and cultural care of experimental plants, frequent monitoring and rapid response following pest detection using physical, biological and chemical methods. The success of any management program will rely on the cooperation of users and Phytotron staff. The following section outlines some of the typical responsibilities of the Phytotron staff and its research users. These areas of responsibility may vary from one institution to another, but all aspects must be undertaken for the IPM program to be successful.