This publication provides general information on these tiny worm-like organisms. A more detailed description of the genera of nematodes that attack plants is provided as well as various methods to diagnose, discourage and treat against plant parasitic nematodes in a least toxic, sustainable manner. ATTRA Pest Management Technical Note.

This publication discusses using solitary or native bees as pollinators. Information is also presented on how to attract and conserve populations of wild bees for pollination purposes. There is also a list of suppliers of native bees and bee equipment. ATTRA Horticulture Technical Note.

Topics for this conference were chosen based on a survey of organic farmers, and all but one of the farmers making presentations were organic. Major topics: Effects of plant and soil health on insect susceptbility, strategies used by organic farmers, putting biological control to work. Sessions on: sweet corn pests, crucifer pests (especially flea beetles), potato leafhopper, tarnished plant bug, cucurbit pests, Colorado potato beetle and other pests of solanceous crops, and Mexican bean beetle. Edited by Kimberly Stoner. NRAES–138

Evaluation of yields, plant performance, and pest populations associated with the application two formulations of a kaolin clay product (Surround WP® and Surround XP®) on organic squash. Because squash was destined for the organic baby food market, emphasis was placed on a high-yielding organic cultivar with minimal pest problems. Squash yields were high due to high rainfall. There was no significant difference in yields between the control and Surround XP®. Pests were low in both treatments and the control; this may result in part from a later planting date.

Organic producers are constantly looking for acceptable ways to combat pest problems. For producers of organic cucurbits, a product called Surround has the potential of acting as an organic insecticide. The Organic Program at Iowa State tested two formulations of the product on Waltham Butternut winter squash at the Neely-Kinyon Research and Demonstration Farm. Plants were sprayed on several dates during the summer, and insect data was collected. Although pest populations were moderate to high during the growing season, no significant difference was observed in insect counts between the control and the two treatments. No significant difference was observed between treatments in squash yield.