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GUIDE FOR

CANNABIS IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

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INTRODUCTION Integrated Pest Management (IPM) g o e s b e y o n d c h o o s i n g t h e r i g h t p r o d u c t t o spray and ties together all of the practices on your farm that can either promote or prevent the growth of pests and plant diseases.

COMPONENTS OF AN IPM PROGRAM

Understanding Pest Lifecycles

Preventing Pest Outbreaks

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

Utilizing Control Options

IPM PREVENTION IPM i s t h e i n t e g r a t i o n o f t h e c u l tu r a l c o n t r o l s w e c a n d o t o l i m i t p e s t p r e s s u r e w i t h the various control tools we use, from biological to ef fec tive chemical controls . It ’s a s ys tem that work s bes t when growers prevent pes t s rather than tr ying to control them once infestations are severe. OUR PHILOSOPHY

PR E V E N T I O N F I R S T

CO N T R O L S E CO N D

W H Y P R E V E N T I O N M AT T E R S : C annabi s f ace s the s e 4 c hall e ng e s .

Limited Pesticide Registrations

Strict Residue Standards

Perpetual Mother Stock

Complex Produc tion Schedules

T hi s gui d e w ill s e r ve a s a ref e re n c e f o r I PM s tr ate gie s to c o mb at th e m o s t c o mm o n c annab i s p e s t s e f f e c ti ve l y. Ef f e c ti ve I PM c o mb in e s p reve ntio n , m o nito ring , cultur al p r a c tice s , b io l o gic al c o ntro l s , an d p re ci s i o n u s e o f ef f e c ti ve p e s ti ci d e s w h e re all owe d . IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

I P M TA B L E O F C O N T E N T S P R I N C I P L E S & I N T E G R AT I O N

PRINCIPLES

I N T E G R AT I O N

C U LT U R A L

E N V I R O N M E N TA L

BIOLOGICAL

CHEMICAL

BUILD YOUR OWN PROGR AM

INSECTS

ROOT APHID

F U N G U S G N AT S

THRIPS

SPIDER MITES

BROAD MITES

RUSSET MITES

WHITEFLIES

FOLIAR APHIDS

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DISEASES

POWDERY MILDEW

BOTRY TIS

ROOT ROT

FUSARIUM

H LV

SEPTORIA

RESOURCES

I D E N T I F I C AT I O N P H O T O S

GLOSSARY

108

TOOLS

112

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

CORE IPM PRINCIPLES

PREVENTION

MONITORING

I D E N T I F I C AT I O N

THRESHOLDS

CONTROL S

RECORD KEEPING

HOW IPM WORK S Ef fe c ti ve IPM s trate gie s utilize te chnique s that prevent p e s t populations from entering facilities and growing out of control, obser vation to unders tand the severit y of infes tations , and the combined use of all sensible control ac tions in the ef for t to control pes t s in an ef fec tive and cos t- ef f icient way.

PREVENTION

MONITORING

Prevention comes f irs t . Strong biosecurit y,

Monitoring reveals which pes t s are

quarantine, sanitation, resis tant genetics ,

present , where they are, and how severe

and optimized environment s s top pes t s

pressure is . Traps , visual check s , and

and diseases before they es tablish.

data- driven scouting guide control choices , timing, and intensit y.

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I D E N T I F I C AT I O N

THRESHOLDS

Accurate identif ication and life - cycle

Eradication isn’t always the goal. Some

knowledge determine the correc t control.

pests persist, while others, like russet

Misidentif ying pes t s , such as fungus

mites, require zero tolerance. Action

gnat s versus winged root aphids , can

thresholds based on scouting data guide

lead to crop f ailure.

the most ef fective, cost-ef ficient controls.

CONTROLS

RECORD KEEPING

No single IPM method works alone.

Tracking scouting data and comparing

Cultural, biological, and chemical tools

with control application logs helps growers

must be integrated to avoid gaps pests can

helps growers make informed decisions ,

exploit and to create overlapping, ef fective

catch outbreak s early, and apply the right

modes of action.

tac tics when they matter mos t .

When all 6 Principles work together, IPM star t s becoming your competitive advantage. Follow the s ystem, track your result s , and pest s lose their oppor tunity to win.

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I N T E G R AT I O N The IPM control pyramid below illustrates how pest management should be built f rom the ground up. Strong Cultural and Environmental practices form the foundation, reducing pest pressure before it begins. Biological controls add natural suppression when needed, while Chemical controls sit at the top—used sparingly and only when lower layers are insuff icient. Effective IPM prioritizes prevention f irst and intervention last.

THE 4 CONTROL T YPES

C U LT U R A L

S ani t ati o n , wo rk f l ow s , an d h an d lin g p r a c ti c e s th at p reve nt p e s t intro d u c ti o n .

E N V IRONME N T

Clim ate , air f l ow, a n d m o i s tu re a d ju s tm e nt s th at m a ke c o n di ti o n s u nf avo r a b l e f o r pests.

BIOLOGICAL

CHEMICAL

Benef icial o r g a ni s m s u s e d to s u p p re s s p e s t p o p u l ati o n s n atu r a ll y.

Ta r g e te d a p p li c ati o n s used only when n e c e s s ar y to re d u c e p e s t p re s s u re .

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

C U LT U R A L C O N T R O L S

W H Y C U LT U R A L C O N T R O L S M AT T E R : Re duce Earl y Pe s t Pre s sure. L ower S pray D ep endence. Reinforce Daily Work flow. Strengthen Facility Resilience.

Cultural Controls in IPM refer to the ever yday p r a c ti c e s an d o p e r ati o nal s tr ate gi e s that grower s u s e to prevent p e s t s from entering f acilitie s and track their p opulations during ou tb reak s . T he s e m e tho d s are c ritic al f o r any s u cce s s f ul I PM p ro gr am b e c au s e they are p reve ntati ve r athe r than reac ti ve an d reduce pest pressure before problems escalate to the point where crops are d a m a g e d . Cu l tu r a l c o nt r o l s a r e t y p i c a l l y low- cos t ac tions that f it naturally into s tan d ard wo rk f l ow s .

T Y P E S O F C U LT U R A L C O N T R O L S

1. S A N I TAT I O N

P. 1 2

2. QUARANTINE

C U LT U R A L

Sanitation focuses on keeping pes t s and pathogens out of the f a c i l i t y. I t w o r k s t h r o u g h b i o s e c u r i t y p r a c t i c e s l i k e c l e a n c l o t h i n g , physical barriers , and weed-free perimeters . Strong sanitation r e d u c e s t h e c h a n c e o f p e s t s e v e r e n t e r i n g t h e g r o w.

P. 1 4

Quarantine isolates new plant material before it enters produc tion areas . New arrivals are inspec ted, monitored, and treated during a minimum two -week isolation period. This prevent s pest s and d i s e a s e s f r o m b e i n g i n t r o d u c e d i n t o t h e f a c i l i t y.

3. CLEAN WORKFLOWS

P. 1 5

Cl e an wo rk f l ow s c o ntro l h ow p e o p l e m ove thro u gh a f a cilit y. Wo rk p ro gre s s e s f ro m l ow - ri s k to high - ri s k are a s w ith n o return to c l e an zo n e s . T hi s limit s th e s p re a d o f p e s t s an d di s e a s e s b et we e n ro o m s .

4. MONITORING & SCOUTING

P. 1 6

M onitoring and s couting invol ve in s p e c ting plant s , identif y ing p e s t s a n d d i s e a s e s , a n d r e c o r d i n g o b s e r v a t i o n s o v e r t i m e . C o n s i s te nt s couting data and p e s t pre s sure re cord s reveal trend s , supp or t b et ter d e ci s i o n s , an d all ow e arl y inte r ve ntio n b e f o re d am a g e e s c alate s .

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C U LT U R A L CONTROLS

SA NITATION

The f irst and most important line of defense against pests and disease.

C U LT U R A L

B io s e curit y and s anitation f orm the f oundation of p e s t and di s ea s e p revention . Ef f e c ti ve s anitatio n inc lu d e s maintaining we e d -f re e groun d s , in s talling b arrie r s at e ntr y p oint s , an d re quiring wo rke r s to c hang e into c l ean c l othing o r PPE b e f o re e nte ring grow ro o m s , e s p e ciall y w hen emp loye e s maintain home garden s that may harb or p e s t s or patho gen s .

C L E A N FAC I L I T Y G R O U N D S Cl e an f a cilitie s an d gro un d s harb o r l e s s p e s t s and plant diseases by eliminating “over wintering” s ite s o r by k illing any li ve p e s t s o r s p o re s that c o ul d b e gin a n ew lif e c yc l e in c ro p s .

PPE

DEEP CLEAN

REMOVE DEBRIS

Prevent the movement of pes t s by wearing PPE and changing between work areas .

Deep - clean rooms and tools between crops to prevent pes t buildup.

Remove plant debris from f acilities daily and clean f acilities af ter each crop cycle.

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

C U LT U R A L CONTROLS

SA NITATION CONTACT C O N TA C T T I M ETIME

A ll ow a d e quate co nt ac t tim e f o r s anitizing chemicals to work. Suggested contact times are:

SANITIZING AGE NT

MINIMUM C O N TA C T T I M E

Hydrogen Peroxide

5 -10 Min.

Peroxyacetic Acid

1 -2 Min .

PRO T IP

U s e a f o am e r to imp rove s ani tize r c o nt a c t tim e an d make spray coverage easier to see.

Use test strips to confirm the strength and ef fectiveness of your mixed peroxide and PA A solutions.

Us e our Clean L ine pro ce dure include d in the QR to the lef t .

CLEAN EQUIPMENT Sanitize sur f aces , equipment , tools , irrigation s ys tems , f loors and f ans frequently.

C U LT U R A L

VERIFY SANITIZER STRENGTH

USE FOAMER

AIR SHOWERS

REMOVE WEEDS

Use air showers at entry points to blow of f pests and spores before workers enter clean areas.

Remove weeds and algae inside and outside the facility that could harbor pests and plant diseases.

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

C U LT U R A L CONTROLS

Q UA R A NTINE

Your newest clones are the dirtiest plants in your building.

C U LT U R A L

N ew p lant mate rial i s the m o s t co mm o n s ource of p e s t s an d di s ea s e . Q uar antine new arri v al s by in s p e c ting the m o n arri v al , i s o lating the m f o r at l ea s t t wo we e k s , m o nito ring f o r i s s u e s , an d ap p l y ing p reve nti ve co ntro l s b e f o re m ov ing the m into p ro du c tio n .

TRUSTED SOURCES

QUAR ANTINE PROTOCOL

Obtain clones from a reputable supplier.

Never accept out side plant material without rigorous inspec tion and a quarantine proces s .

Quarantine SOP Av ailable in the back of this b o ok .

QUAR ANTINE ARE A E s tablish a quarantine area separate from produc tion, with a def ined proces s for moving plant s into ac tive grow areas .

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

Begin an ef fective quarantine program

QUARANTINE

CLE A N WORK FL OWS

C U LT U R A L CONTROLS

You are the biggest vector for disease in your facility. Cl ean -to - dir t y wo rk f l ow s are a bio s e curit y p r ac tice that p reve nt s the s p rea d of p e s t s an d p atho g e n s by s e qu e ncing wo rke r ac ti v itie s b a s e d o n p e s t p re s s ure l eve l s .

A n Ef fec tive Clean -To - D ir t y Work f low Protocol Involve s :

C U LT U R A L

SCOUTING D ATA

SMART WORKFLOW

FACILIT Y C U LT U R E

Use scouting data to pinpoint rooms or zones with ac tive pes t or disease pres sure.

Schedule task s so workers s tar t in clean areas and move only toward zones with higher pes t risk .

Enforce policies that s top workers from returning to clean zones af ter entering contaminated areas .

Clean to Dirty Workflow SOP Av ailable in the back of this b o ok .

WORKER TRAINING

CONTROLLED ACCESS

Train workers to recognize pes t risk s from out side sources and movement bet ween rooms .

Control acces s and work f lows , especially in propagation, with s tric t entr y order.

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

Es tablish clean work f lows in your f acilit y.

WORKFLOW

C U LT U R A L CONTROLS

MONITORING & SCOUTING

Scouting isn’t optional, It’s your only early warning system. Ef fec tive scouting allows growers to identif y p e s t p re s s ure earl y, m o nito r tre n d s , an d confirm whether control strategies are working. Without it , pest s can spread unnoticed until visible damage appears, increasing cost , risk, and crop loss .

SCOUTING HELPS DETERMINE:

WH AT PE S T S A R E PR E S E N T WH E R E T H E Y A R E LO C AT E D

C U LT U R A L

H OW B A D T H E PR O B L E M I S

IPM DECISION CYCLE:

SCOUT Determine what pes t s are present and where they are located.

E VA L U AT E Judge ef fectiveness with follow-up scouting. Adjust plan.

A CONTINUOUS PROCESS 3

CHOOSE CONTROL Co mp are d at a to a c ti o n thre s h o l d s . Ch o o s e re s p o n s e .

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

T R A C K D ATA Record pest count s . Plot population cur ves.

W E E K LY M IN IMUM

I PM SCO UTI N G PRO C E S S

WEAR PPE

SCOUT

C L E A N -T O - D I R T Y

Use clean PPE to prevent p e s t m ove m e nt b e t w e e n ro o m s a n d zo n e s d urin g s c o u t in g .

R o u t in e l y in s p e c t t h e e nt ire f a c ili t y u s in g a d e f in e d ro u te a n d re p re s e nt at i ve p l a nt s a m p lin g .

Follow a s truc tured w o rk f l o w to p re ve nt p e s t b a c k t r a c k in g b e t w e e n zo n e s .

E X A M I N E T H E P L A N T PA R T S : Surface of Leaves

C U LT U R A L

Undersides of leaves

Growing Tips/Flowers

Lower Stems/Soil LIne

Roots (if possible)

Scouting Tools & Equipment

Hand Lens

Stick y Tr a p s

Scouting Log

Sanitized To o l s

Nitrile Gloves

Plastic Baggies

Ta p e & Markers

White Board

Scouting SOP

Scouting Log

Av ailable in the back of this b o ok .

Standardize scouting work f lows and prevent crosscontamination.

SCOUTING

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Record pes t count s , locations , and follow-up obser vations .

SCOUT LOG

C U LT U R A L CONTROLS

MONITORING & SCOUTING

Identify correctly or fuel the outbreak. Proper pest identif ication and life cycle knowledge guide produc t choice, rate, and timing. Misidentif ying pest s like fungus gnat s and root aphid alates can lead to the wrong control program and crop loss . TO IDENTIFY INSECTS, USE:

T O I D E N T I F Y PAT H O G E N S , U S E :

VISUAL IDENTIFICATION

GENETIC TESTING

C U LT U R A L

L ight G o l d Co l o r Fast Moving

Leaf Damage

D ark S p o t s o n B ac k

S p o t i s s u e s e a r l y b y o b s e r v i n g c o l o r, movement, and plant damage to guide quick action before outbreaks spread.

S TICK Y TR A PS

Yellow for General Insects

Stick y traps provide a simple and ef fec tive way to m o n i to r p e s t a c t i v i t y, a s i n s e c t s b e c o m e t r a p p e d on contact and can be easily identif ied.

LOW COST & E ASY TO DEPLOY

Blue for Thrips & Whitefly

S t i c k y Tr a p SOP

Sticky Trap Monitoring Log

Av ailable in the back of this b o ok .

Deploy stick y traps and record pest activity.

Confirm viral and fungal pathogens through precise DNA analysis to eliminate guesswork before treatment.

STICKY TRAP

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

Record pest trends and treatment ef fectiveness.

SCOUTING

C U LT U R A L CONTROLS

MONITORING & SCOUTING

Def ined Action Prevents Economic Loss Grower s s hould as s e s s each p e s t ' s overall Ris k Level based on it's Prof ile to set ac tion thresholds that trigger Preventative Light Curative Heav y Curative control responses based on the Incidence % and Severit y Level obser ved during scouting.

LOW

RISK LEVEL

MEDIUM

HIGH

Use the Insect & Disease Profile Pages to assign a risk level for each pest. For Example: A pest that ranks high in stealth, mobility and resistance would be classified as high risk. T hi s p ro c e s s i s s u b j e c t i v e . S o m e g ro w e r s c o n s i d e r s p i d e r m i te s a hi g h ri s k w hi l e o t h e r s c o n s i d e r t h e m m e d iu m ri s k .

Action Thresholds An action threshold is a predetermined intervention point ensuring action is taken based on scouting data before pest populations reach financial loss, not based on intuition.

NOTE: Some pests may require Heavy Curative Controls at Severity level 1.

Action Thresholds

ted

$ Financial Loss

LOW RISK

Action Threshold

Preventive

Light Curative

Heavy Curative

Powder y Mil dew

S pider Mite s

Fungu s Gnat s

C U LT U R A L

tr Un

MEDIUM RISK

Char t A

HIGH RISK

Action Threshold

Pest Population

Pre-assign a Severity level to a control response Preventative Light Curative Heav y Curative for each pest based on risk level. This is you defining your Action Threshold.

This chart above shows the Action Threshold for PM being 1 Severity, 2 Severity for Spider Mites and 4 Severity for Fungus Gnats .

Ti m e

Low Risk vs High Risk Pests

Severity Level

For each control response, choose the most ef fective controls. Our recommendations can be found on the Control Strategy page for each

Char t B

Fungus Gnats

insect and disease. E x a m p l e p a g e s h o w n b e l o w . 2

Russet Mites

Contro l S trate g y Log

1 L OW

Risk o f $ Fin a n c ia l Lo ss

HIGH

Low Risk pests

High Risk pests

l i ke f u n g u s g n a t s

l i ke r u s s e t m i te s

represent a lower

represent a higher

risk of f inancial loss .

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

Prepare your s trategy for each pes t .

CONTROL

C U LT U R A L CONTROLS

MONITORING & SCOUTING

If it isn't tracked, it can't be controlled. Scouting and record keeping turn obser vations into early inter vention before pes t pres sure e s c alate s . Pe s t an d p lant di s ea s e data co ll e c te d throu gh s cou ting l o g s an d s tic k y tr ap s all ow growe r s to tr ac k p o p ulatio n tre n d s , id e ntif y e m e rging inf e s tatio n s , an d ev alu ate the e f f e c ti ve ne s s of co ntro l s tr ate gie s ove r tim e .

SCOUTED VS UNSCOUTED U N S C O U T E D FA C I L I T Y 4

LEGEND

Severity

C U LT U R A L

S C O U T E D FA C I L I T Y 4

ZONE 1

Treatment

ZONE 2 Ac tion Thre shold

ZONE 3

Week

Good Example: Zone 1 crossed the action thre s h o l d , trig g e rin g tre atm e nt . Pe s t populations were reduced and remained c o ntro ll e d f o r th e re s t o f th e c yc l e .

Week

B a d E xa m p l e : N o a c tio n w a s t ake n af te r thre s hold s were cro s s e d . Pe s t p opulations increa s e d and s p read acro s s zone s for the re s t o f th e c yc l e .

Record Keeping A tool to log, track , and visualize your f acilit y ’s records .

• Scouting Data

• Stick y Trap Data

• Genetic Tes ting Data

• Spray Records

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

Population Curves To generate a population curve in a spreadsheet software, use data from your scouting log. Plot time (date) on the X-axis and pest incidence or severity on the Y-axis for each pest and cultivation zone.

E N V I R O N M E N TA L C O N T R O L S

W H Y E N V I R O N M E N TA L C O N T R O L S M AT T E R : Limit Pest Acceleration. Prevent Micro Climates . Create Consistent Conditions .

Environmental Controls in IPM manage c l i m a t e , a i r f l o w, i r r i g a t i o n , a n d s u b s t r a t e conditions that influence pest and disease pressure. By regulating temperature, h u m i d i t y, a i r f l o w, a n d m o i s t u r e , g r o w e r s create environment s that limit pes t and pathogen establishment . These controls re d u c e p e s t p re s s u re , s u p p o r t p l ant h e a l th , and minimize the need for corrective ac tion later in the crop cycle.

T Y P E S O F E N V I R O N M E N TA L C O N T R O L S

1. A I R F L O W & C I R C U L AT I O N

P. 2 2

2. HUMIDIT Y & LEAF WETNESS

E N V I R O N M E N TA L

S t a g n a nt ai r c re ate s m i c ro c l i m ate s w h e re m o i s tu re a c c u m u l ate s a n d spores settle. Proper air f low disrupt s these conditions , reducing leaf wetness and limiting disease development .

P. 2 2

Many foliar pathogens thrive in humid, s tagnant conditions where leaf sur f aces remain wet for ex tended periods .

3. TEMPER ATURE M A N AGEMENT

P. 2 3

In s e c t p e s t s re p ro du c e f a s te r a s te mp e r ature s ri s e , s h o r te nin g lif e c yc l e s an d a c ce l e r ating p o p ulatio n grow th .

4. ROOT ZONE CONDITIONS

P. 2 3

Improper irrigation prac tices create conditions that f avor root pathogens and weaken plant defenses , making crops more susceptible to pes t s and disease.

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROLS

AIRFLOW & CIRCULATION

Circulating air prevents micro climates that diseases thrive in. Tra p p e d h ea t a n d m o i s t u re increase disease and pest pressure. Steady airflow keeps conditions uniform and stable. Micro Climate E N V I R O N M E N TA L

Static pocket of air developing because of lack of airflow on this side of the room.

HUMIDITY & LEAF WETNESS

Fo liar p ath o g e n s thri ve in mi c ro - c limate s w h e re c alm , humid air all ow s s p o re s to s et tl e an d m o i s ture o n l e ave s trig g e r s s p o re g e rminatio n .

COOL MORNINGS & EVENINGS

POWDE RY MILDEW RI S K

In cool, clear mornings and evenings , leaves can drop below the dew point and form condensation that promotes disease.

PM thrives in cool, humid air and poor airflow. Condensation increases risk. Control humidity and airflow to prevent spread.

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

TEMPER ATURE M A N AGEMENT

Temperature influences disease pressure and insect reproduction rates. In high air temperatures, insects reproduce exponentially faster while disease pressure declines. At low air temperatures, disease pressure increases while insects are slower to reproduce.

LEGEND

How Foliar Disease & Pest Pressure Relate to Temperature More prone to disease

Faster pest reproduction

Pest Reproduction R a te

Disease Pressure

50º (10º)

60º (16º) COLD

70º (21º)

80º (27º)

Temperature °F (°C)

90º (32º)

100º (38º)

HOT

E N V I R O N M E N TA L

Less prone to disease

Slower pest reproduction

ROOT ZONE CONDITIONS

Keep proper temperature, moisture, and dissolved oxygen levels in the root zone to prevent root diseases and promote heal thy plant growth.

Low O2 in the substrate. Root rot risk increases. 4C

4A Excess light heat spikes tank temps, strips oxygen, and feeds algae.

Hot Tank Temp

4B Low dissolved oxygen favors biof ilm growth. Biof ilm can harbor pathogens like Pythium.

Overwatering causes excess water on top of the substrate and grow tables. 4D

4E Light hits the water and causes algae to grow.

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

4F Algae growth is food for fungus gnats and consumes fertilizer and oxygen.

E N V I R O N M E N TA L C O N T R O L S T R AT E G I E S D ial in th e e nv iro nm e nt . R e du c e Stre s s . Preve nt di s e a s e b e f o re it s t ar t s .

O p t i m i ze P l a nt S pa ci n g

I n c rea se A i r Exch a n g e Rate

E N V I R O N M E N TA L

Airflow & Circulation

Can o py M a na gem ent

Humidity & Leaf Wetness

M a na ge Va po r Pre s s u re D e f icit

M oni tor D ew Poi nt

Avo id H u m i d i ty Fluc t uat i ons

Temperature

Ap p rop ri a te S i ze HVAC

Co n t in uo us l y M oni tor Te mp e ra t u re

H y p o ch lo ro us Ac id

Ins t a l l Hori zont a l Ai r f l ow Fa ns

Ta nk Hea te rs a n d C hi l l e rs

Ve r t i ca l & Hori zo ntal Te m p e ra t u re U ni fo rm ity

Root Zone

DO G e n e ra tor

M a na ge You r D r yba cks

Trich o d erm a In o cu latio n

E N V I R O N M E N TA L CO N T R O L S R E D U C E T H E N E E D F O R C H E M I C A L I N T E R V E N T I O N 24

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

BIOLOGICAL CONTROLS B io l o gic al Co ntro l s u s e natur al p re d ato r s

WHY BIOLOGICAL C O N T R O L S M AT T E R : S u p p r e s s P e s t s N a tu r a l l y. IPM- Compatible Control. Safe for Sensitive Stages .

and microorganisms to suppress pes t populations . They include predator y insec t s , mic ro b ial in s e c tic id e s an d f ungic id e s , an d n e m a to d e s . S u c c e s s f u l u s e d e p e n d s o n under s tanding their s trength s , limitation s , and proper integration into an IPM program .

Resistance Management .

TYPES OF BIOLOGICAL CONTROLS

1. B E N E F I C I A L I N S E C T S

P. 2 6

L i v i n g b i o l o g i c a l c o n t r o l s t h a t r e d u c e p e s t p o p u l a t i o n s n a t u r a l l y. Includes predators and parasitoids that target harmful insect s as par t of an integrated pest management program. B I O L O G I C A L

2. MICROBES

P. 2 7

Biological produc t s made from naturally occurring fungi and bacteria that suppress insect pest s and plant diseases through infection, competition, or ingestion.

3. NEM ATODES

P. 2 8

Microscopic soil- dwelling organisms that control root zone pes t s by infecting and killing them, helping protect plant s below the surface.

L I M I TAT I O N S T O P L A N F O R Slow Initial Control

Higher Cost

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

Best for Prevention

BIOLOGICAL CONTROLS

BENEFICIAL INSECTS

Let Nature Hunt for You. Ben ef icial Insec ts in clude both predators that consum e pests an d parasitoids that lay eggs inside or on pest insec ts, with th e developin g lar va e consumin g th eir h ost . Th ese i n s e c t s ra n g e f ro m g e n e ra l i s t p re d a to rs l i ke g re e n l a cew i n g s a n d m i n u te p i ra te b u g s that feed on a variety of insec ts, to specialized a gents like persimilis mites that feed only on two -spotted spider mites. 2 T YPES OF BENEFICIAL INSEC TS

B I O L O G I C A L

Green Lacewings

Aphidius matricariae

P R E DAT O R S

PA R A S ITO I D S

Ac tively hunt and feed on pest s ,

L ay eggs inside hos t , with lar vae feeding

sometimes killing more than they need.

on them and emerging from them.

2 T Y P E S O F P R E DAT O R S

TIP

Generalist s establish more easily due to a broader diet . Specialist s rely on a single target pest , decline without it , but increase rapidly when populations are high.

CHECK BENEFICIAL INSEC TS BEFORE USE

Orius Insidiosus

Phytoseiulus Persimilis

1 Warm up the bottle

(they arrive cold) get to room temperature. 2 Roll the bottle around

gently to disperse.

GENERALISTS

SPECIALISTS

3 Open to see if they're moving or active. If

Feeds on multiple

Feeds on one

types of insects

type of insect

not return to retailer.

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

BIOLOGICAL CONTROLS

MICROBES

Weaponized Biology Microbial Biological Controls (BioControls) include entomopathogenic fungi like Beauveria bassiana, Isaria fumosorosea, and Metarhizium brunneum that infect insects through contact, benef icial bacteria such as Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) that kill larvae through ingestion, and Trichoderma and Bacillus spp. that function as biofungicides, competing with pathogenic fungi by producing compounds that suppress disease development. 2 T YPES OF MICROBES

BACTERIA

Infec t s insec t s on contac t .

K ill s lar v a e thro u gh in g e s ti o n an d inf e c ti o n .

Examples of Fungal BioControls

Examples of Bacterial BioControls

•

Beauveria Bassiana

•

Pseudomonas spp.

•

Is aria Fumos oros ea

•

Streptomyces spp.

•

Metarhizium Brunneum

•

Bacillus Thuringiensis (Bt)

B I O L O G I C A L

FUNGAL

MICROBIAL PROTECTORS

TRICHODERMA

B A C I L L U S S P P.

Colonizes the root zone and leaf sur f ace,

Colonizes root s and leaves , outcompeting

outcompeting pathogens for space and

pathogens while producing antimicrobial

nutrient s while produc ting enz ymes and

compounds that suppress disease and

metabolites that direc tly inhibit them.

suppor t plant resilience.

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

BIOLOGICAL CONTROLS

NEMATODES

Release Killers into the Soil.

B I O L O G I C A L

Ben ef icial n ematodes like Stein ern ema fel tia e parasitize soil- dwellin g pests by infec tin g th eir bodies an d secretin g toxic ba c teria. Additionally, th ey can be used as a dip, spray, o r s p re n ch to co n t ro l l ea f- fe e d i n g p e s t s s u ch a s t h ri p s . T h ey a re re s i l i e n t a n d c a n b e tank-mixed with m ost oth er fer tilizers an d pesticides but sh ould be used imm ediately after mixin g into water.

N E M AT O D E S I N F E C T I N G H O S T

HOST AFTER INFECTED

N e m ato d e s inv a d e t h e li v in g h o s t an d re l e a s e tox i c b a c te ri a in s i d e .

T h e b a c te ri a mul t ip l y in s i d e t h e h o s t , k illin g i t an d c re at in g a b re e din g s i te .

WAYS T H E Y C A N B E A PPL I E D C H E C K N E M AT O D E S BEFORE USE

1 Warm up the bottle (they arrive cold) get

to room temperature. 2 Prepare a microscope slide with a sample in

water and observe. DIP Submerge root s to target soil pes t s direc tly.

S P R AY

DRENCH

Alive

Dead

Apply to foliage

Saturate media

and media

to reach root-

Curly + Moving

Straight + Immobile

sur f aces .

zone pes t s .

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

CHEMICAL CONTROLS

WHY CHEMICAL C O N T R O L S M AT T E R : Immediate Pest Suppression. Targeted Control When Needed. Outbreak Response Tool.

C h e m i c a l C o n t r o l s i n I P M a r e t a r g e te d products used to suppress pests and diseases when preventive measures f all shor t . They p rov i d e r ap i d inte r ve nti o n durin g a c ti ve inf e s t atio n s , limi ting c ro p d ama g e w h e n p re s sure exce e d s thre s ho ld s . T he s e to o l s are m o s t e f f e c ti ve w h e n u s e d s p arin gl y, integrated with other strategies, and applied according to regulations and best prac tices .

TYPES OF CHEMICAL CONTROLS

1. BROAD SPECTRUM PESTICIDES

P. 3 0

2. CHEMICAL INSECTICIDES

C H E M I C A L S

Broad- spec trum pes ticides ac t physically, not biochemically. They work through various modes of ac tion such as smothering (blocking breathing mechanisms), damaging exoskeletons resulting in fatal water loss , repelling through aromatic oils , and inhibition of fungal spores .

P. 3 1

Ta rg e te d c h e mi c a l in s e c t i c i d e s , s u c h a s az a d ir a c ht in a n d in s e c t i c i d a l soaps , require direc t contac t with pest s and provide little residual a c t i v i t y. E f f e c t i v e c o n t r o l d e p e n d s o n t h o r o u g h c o v e r a g e a n d m a y require repeated applications .

3. CHEMICAL FUNGICIDES

P. 3 2

Approved fungicides, including wettable sulfur and potassium phosphites, help manage fungal diseases in cannabis. Sulfur is primarily preventive and can cause phytotoxicity at high temperatures, while potassium phosphites are systemic and provide both preventive and limited curative control.

4. OXIDIZERS

P. 3 3

O x i d i z i n g a g e n t s , s u c h a s hy d r o g e n p e r ox i d e a n d p e r ox y a c e t i c a c i d ( PA A ) , k i l l b a c t e r i a , f u n g i , a n d a l g a e t h r o u g h o x i d a t i v e d a m a g e . T h e y a r e e f f e c t i v e s a n i t i ze r s t h a t b r e a k d o w n r a p i d l y i n t o h a r m l e s s byproduc t s , leaving no residue, but provide no residual protec tion and can damage plant tissue if overused.

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

BROAD SPECTRUM PESTICIDES

Broad spectrum pesticides work through mul tiple physical modes of action rather than a single biochemical target. They control pests through smothering, desiccation, repellency, and fungal inhibition by disrupting insect cuticles, breathing, and fungal spore development.

Ef fec tive Agains t : Insect Disease

ESSENTIAL OIL S

HORTICUR AL OIL S

SURFAC TANTS

R e p e l & D e s s i c ate

Smother Form A Barrier

S p r ay O f f Ch e mi c al s

C H E M I C A L S

& S p o re s

CITRIC ACID

ENZ YMES

ALCOHOL

D i s rupt s D i s e a s e G row th B y

Des troys Insec t Cuticles Causing D ehydration

D e s s i c ate s & D i s rupt s

L owe rin g L e af Ph

M e mb r an e s

M O D E S O F AC T I O N

Dessication

Smothering

Repellants

Suppres s Pathogens

Dries out pests by removing mois ture.

Blocks breathing pores, causing suffocation.

Deters pests from landing or feeding on plants.

Blocks breathing pores, causing suffocation.

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

CHEMICAL INSECTICIDES

Targeted chemical insecticides use specif ic chemistries such as azadirachtin, insecticidal soaps, and pyrethrins. These products require direct contact, provide minimal residual activity, and often need thorough coverage and repeated applications for effective control.

INSEC TICIDAL SOAPS

Ef fec tive Agains t : Insect

PYRETHRIN

Botanical extract (neem)

Potassium salts of fatty acids

Botanical extract (chr ysanthemum)

Slow-acting, long-lasting

Fast-acting, knockdown

Low toxicity to beneficials

Requires complete coverage

Breaks down in sunlight

Best as foliar spray

Long Re-entr y Inter val

Use in low light conditions

C H E M I C A L S

A Z ADIR ACHTIN

CHEMICAL CONTROLS

M O D E S O F AC T I O N

Life Cycle Disruption

Contact Kill

Disrupts grow th, molting, and reproduction.

Kills pests on direct contact for fast knockdown.

Paralyzes or kills pests through ner vous system disruption.

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

CHEMICAL FUNGICIDES

CHEMICAL CONTROLS

For controlling fungal diseases in cannabis , approved produc t s contain ingredients such as wettable sulfur and potassium pho sphite s (als o c alle d pho sphorous acid or pho sphonate s).

Ef fec tive Agains t : Disease

CAUTION: Sulfur can also cause phytotoxicity when temperatures exceed 85-90°F or when applied too close to oil-based products.

C H E M I C A L S

T YPES OF CHEMICAL FUNGICIDES

POTA SSIUM PHOSPHITES

POTA SSIUM BICARBONATE

Pot a s s ium p h o s p hi te s

Pot a s s ium b i c arb o nate

SULFUR S ul f ur di s rupt s f un g al re s p ir atio n an d p rov i d e s s tro ng p reve nti ve c o ntro l o f p owd e r y mil d ew, b u t o f f e r s limite d cur ati ve a c ti v i t y.

trig g e r p lant d ef e n s e s

k ill s by o s m oti c c e llular

a g ain s t p ath o g e n s w hil e

di s rupti o n an d p rov i d e s

al s o p rov i din g dire c t

re s i du al anti f un g al a c ti v i t y

f un gi ci d al a c ti v i t y.

by al te rin g l e af s ur f a c e p H .

MODES OF AC TION

Membrane Disruption

Cellular Inhibition

Immune System Defense

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

Suppress Pathogens

OXIDIZERS

Oxidizing agent s like hydrogen peroxide and perox yacetic acid ( PA A ) k i l l m i c r o b e s t h r o u g h o x i d a t i v e d a m a g e . T h e y ’r e e f f e c t i v e s a n i t ize r s t h a t l e av e n o r e s i d u e , b u t p r o v i d e n o l a s t i n g p r o te c t i o n and can injure plant s if overapplied.

HYDROGEN PEROXIDE

CHEMICAL CONTROLS

NOTE: No lasting protection or ongoing treatment benefit.

Ef fec tive Agains t : Diseases

P E R O X YAC E T I C AC I D

BLEACH

OXIDIZERS EFFEC TIVE ON : SURFACES

TOOLS

Reset

MODES OF AC TION

C H E M I C A L S

I R R I G AT I O N S Y S T E M S

Perafoam

Renew

Note: Oxidizers like Athena ® Reset are more effective when applied with a foamer because 1. Longer contact time 2. Easier to see full surface coverage

Oxidizing

Possible to damage plant tissue if used too of ten.

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

Scan for access to the Clean Line procedures.

MODES OF ACTION Modes of Action describe how pest control products work, not just what they target. Each active ingredient (and some inactive ingredients) af fects pests or pathogens in a specific way, from contact kill and life-cycle disruption to activating plant defenses or suppressing disease pressure. Understanding these mechanisms helps you select the right products and combine modes of action into a comprehensive, long-term pest management plan.

CONTAC T KILL

SA N ITI Z E

LIFE CYCLE DISRUPTION

BO O S T PL A NT DEFENSE

INFECT PESTS

SUPPRESS PATHOGENS

Physically damages pests on contact, leading to rapid death.

Oxidizes and destroys spores, biofilms, and pathogens on surfaces and systems.

Interrupts growth, molting, feeding, or reproduction to break pest life cycles.

Activates plant immune responses to resist disease and suppress infection.

Uses beneficial microbes to infect insects internally, causing mortality.

Outcompetes or antagonizes plant pathogens to reduce disease pressure.

EX AMPLE INGREDIENTS

PESTS

A P P L I C AT I O N

PRODUCT GROUP

ESSENTIAL OILS

HORTICULTURAL OILS

MODES OF AC T I O N

PE PPE R M IN T, CIN N A M O N ,

M I T E S , A PH ID S ,

R O S E M A RY, T H Y M E , CLOV E ,

WH I T E FLI E S ,

G A R LI C , G E R A N I O L B LE N D S

T H R IP S

M IN E R A L O IL , N E E M O IL , S OY B E A N O IL

T O O L S

H Y D R O G E N PE R OXID E , OXIDIZERS / SANITIZERS

PE R OX YACE T I C ACID, B LE ACH

INORGANIC FUNGICIDES & SALTS

S U LFU R , P OTA S S I U M B I C A R B O N AT E

A Z A D I R ACH T I N

WH I T E FLI E S ,

FU N G A L S P O R E S , B I O FI L M S , A LG A E

MICROBIAL INSECTICIDES – FUNGAL

MICROBIAL INSECTICIDES – BACTERIAL / METABOLITE

MICROBIAL FUNGICIDES – BACTERIAL

PAT H O G E N S

R O OT A PH ID S , WH I T E FLI E S

FOLIAR ROOTS

B T I S R A E LE N S I S ,

FU N GU S G N AT L A RVA E ; M I T E S ,

S U B T S U G A E , S PIN O S A D

T H R IP S

ROOTS

PM , B OT RY T I S ,

FOLIAR

B ACI L LU S S U B T I LI S Q S T 7 1 3 , B . A M Y LO LI QU E FACI E N S F 7 2 7

T R I CH O D E R M A S PP. , S T R E P TO M YCE S S PP. , U LO CL A D I U M U3

Warning: Avoid Microbials in flower.

A PH ID S , T H R IP S , M I T E S ,

ROOTS

CH R O M O B AC T E R I U M

M YCO R R H IZ A E , MICROBIAL FUNGICIDES – ANTAGONISTS

FOLIAR

A PH ID S , R O OT

PM , FU N G A L

M E TA R H IZ I U M B RU N N A E

FOLIAR

B R OA D M I T E S

REYNOUTRIA ,

I S A R I A FU M O S O R O S E A ,

SYSTEM & SANITATION

PM , RU S S E T M I T E S ,

P OTA S S I U M PH O S PH I T E S

B E AU V E R I A B A S S I A N A ,

FOLIAR

EG G S

A PH ID S

INDUCED SYSTEMIC DEFENSE

ROOTS

M I T E S , A PH ID S ,

T H R IP S , M I T E S , BOTANICAL IGRS

FOLIAR

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

FOLIAR

PY T H I U M , S E P TO R I A

ROOTS

R O OT

FOLIAR

PAT H O G E N S , B OT RY T I S

ROOTS

The Role of Athena ® IPM in Your Rotation:

FOLIAR

ROOTS

Built to deliver contact kill, pathogen suppression, and plant defense all at once, not one at a time. Athena® IPM work s through multiple modes at once, using essential oils and organic acids to provide both preventive and curative coverage as a reliable foundation in any spray rotation. Targeted produc t s can be layered in when pressure increases or soil pes t s are present .

INGREDIENTS OF IPM

PEPPERMINT OIL

Cinnamon OIL

CITRIC ACID

Naturally Derived Oils + Organic Acids Designed for contac t kill, sanitation, and suppression.

What it Treat s :

H ow it Work s :

• Ins e c t s & mite s

Surfactants, essential

• Thrip s

oils, and organic acids

• A phids • Whitef lie s • Fungus Gnat s • B road Mite s

Root Aphids

cycles, and sterilize on

Fungus Gnats

Thrips

Spider Mites

Broad Mites

Russet Mites

Whiteflies

Green Peach Aphid

Potato Aphid

Cannabis Aphid

Powdery Mildew

Botrytis

Pythium

Fusarium

Septoria Leaf Blight

contact.

What it Treat s :

H ow it Work s :

• Powder y Mildew

Organic acids lower pH on the leaf surface and in the root zone, creating an unfavorable environment for pathogens while supporting plant health.

• Leaf Sp ot

Eff icacy Ranking

defenses, disrupt life

SUPPRESSES PATHOGENS

• D owny Mildew

Athena® IPM delivers proven result s agains t key insec t pes t s and pathogens .

works synergistically to break down pest

Ef fective Against

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

T O O L S

E FFEC TIV E AGA IN S T A B ROA D R A N G E O F PE S T S

K I L L S O N C O N TAC T

Not a Target

IPM DECISION FL OW The following decision tree is an example of how to use scouting data to make appropriate control decisions .

STEP 1

A ssess Severit y S c o u t yo ur p l ant s an d rev i ew yo ur s c o u tin g d at a an d r ate e a c h p ro b l e m f ro m 0 - 4

NONE

LOW

MEDIUM

HIGH

CRITIC AL

STEP 2

A re any s core s ab ove your ac tion thre s hold s?

T O O L S

YES

Heavy Curative

Preventative/ Light Curative

Immediate action needed

Stay ahead of the problem

STEP 3

Cho o s e Your Pro gram Ty p e Preventative

Stop problems before they start.

Light Curative

Address small problems gently.

Heav y Curative

Aggressive for infestations.

PRO T IP:

WHEN:

No pests or early season.

WHEN:

Low pest levels or early stages.

WHEN:

High pest pressure or widespread.

B i o l o g i c a l s a n d I P M w o r k b e s t w h e n u s e d p r e v e n t a t i v e l y a n d c o n s i s te n t l y a s p a r t o f a c o m p l e te p r o g r a m .

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

B U I L D YO U R S P R AY S C H E D U L E

GOAL: To target multiple pests with minimal/most effective sprays.

Reference either the recommendations on each pes t control page or the heat maps to make your decisions .

Identif y Control Options

Choose Response Level

Compare your scouting data to your pre-defined action thresholds to choose the response level for each pest that is present.

Reference the three Control Strategy docs for the pests that you need to treat.

I N T H I S E X A M P L E S C O U T I N G D ATA S H O W S T H E S E S E V ER I T Y R AT I N G S :

HIGH RISK

MEDIUM RISK

Action Thresholds

Preventive

Light Curative

Heavy Curative

Powder y Mil dew

A p hid s

T hrip s

In this case, Powder y Mildew is Light Curative, while the remaining pest s are Heav y Curative.

B e c au s e we have multiple p e s t s , we w ant to cho o s e the mo s t minimal amount of pro duc t s that treat s multiple p e s t s to avoid over s tre s sing the plant , but s till ef fe c ti vel y treating the problem .

P R E - D E T E R M I N E D AC T I O N T H R E S H O L D S

Choose Most Ef fective Products

Choose most effective products while also keeping the amount of products to a minimum.

Consider Other Factors

Consider Location of plant Roots

Foliar

IPM MODES OF AC TION

Mother

Clone

Veg

Flower

T O O L S

We then realize that IPM is ef fective across all pest s present in this example.

Consider Phase of Growth

Then we choose some PM specif ic product, a thrips specif ic product, and some biological decisions to ensure we are rotating our modes of actions . and once considering the lo cation of the plant (foliar, roots) we needed some biologicals in the root s since those were the only ef fective options there.

Use suggested rates X times per week, map it out ensuring rotate between products/modes of action.

Map out the sprays across the week

Selected Weekly Controls

VEG W3

IPM

Dalotia

S Sulfur Swirskii

Nematodes

AZ Aphids

Sulfur Dalotia Nematodes

Thrips

PRO T IP:

Swirskii

Do this again af ter monitoring and scouting to build your plan for the nex t week .

Spray to f ull coverage. Leave s should b e visibly wet , not exce s sively dripping . Adjus t volume bas e d on c anopy size and densit y.

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

C O N T R O L E F F E C T I V E N E S S H E AT M A P S These chemical control ef f icacy heatmaps provide a reference guide for selec ting pes t management produc t s based on their ef fec tiveness ratings . The scale ranges from 0 (no control) to 3 (ef fec tive control), allowing growers to identif y which produc t s of fer the bes t result s for specif ic pes t s .

H OW T O U S E T H I S TA B L E

Find The Pest

Compare Products

Interpret Results Higher ratings and darker colors mean more ef fective control.

Scan across to compare the ef fec tiveness of chemical and biological, options .

Look across each row for the pest you want to control.

EFFICACY SCALE LEGEND: CHEMICAL No Control

Minimal Control

Moderate Control

Effective Control

T O O L S

BIOLOGICAL

EXAMPLE: THRIPS The most ef fec tive produc t s for thrips are Athena® IPM, hor ticultural oil, and insecticidal soap (Spinosad is ef fective but highly regulated).

i 38

Pest

Athena® IPM

Azadirachtin

Horticultural Oil

Insecticidal Soap

Root Aphids

Fungus Gnats

Thrips

Spider Mites

Broad Mites

Numbers under each product /ingredient show all pests and diseases that can be controlled. Note: Athena® IPM is highly ef fective against foliar pest s , while other tools may be better suited for fungal pathogens in the root zone. IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

Athena ® IPM

Horticultural Oils

Insecticidal Soap

Azadirachtin

Spinosad

Wettable Sulfur

Isopropyl Alcohol

Hydrogen Peroxide

Potassium Bicarbonate

Potassium Phosphites

Root Aphids

Fungus Gnats

Thrips

Spider Mites

Broad Mites

Russet Mites

Whiteflies

Green Peach Aphid

Potato Aphid

Cannabis Aphid

Powdery Mildew

Botrytis

Pythium

Fusarium

Septoria Leaf Blight

Pest

Beauvaria b.

Metarhizium a.

Isaria f.

Bacillus Thuringensis

Trichoderma spp.

Bacillus Subtilis

Bacillus Amoliquifaciens

Streptomyces Lydicus

Fungus Gnats

Thrips

Spider Mites

Broad Mites

Russet Mites

Whiteflies

Green Peach Aphid

Potato Aphid

Cannabis Aphid

Powder y Mildew

Py thium

Fusarium

Septoria Leaf Blight

T O O L S

Root Aphids

Steinernema f.

Stratiolaelaps s.

Dalotia c.

N. Andersoni

N. Californicus

A. Fallacis

N. Cucumeris

A. Swirskii

Orius i.

Lacewings

Root Aphids

Fungus Gnats

Thrips

Spider Mites

Broad Mites

Russet Mites

Whiteflies

Green Peach Aphid

Potato Aphid

Cannabis Aphid

Pest

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

S P R AY T E C H N I Q U E S & BEST PRACTICES Ef fective pest and disease control depends on both product selection and proper spray technique. Most cannabis-approved products rely on direct contact, making thorough coverage and proper timing essential for success.

A P P L I C AT I O N V O L U M E

COVER AGE IS CRITICAL Thorough coverage = Ef fec tive control.

Spray to full coverage. Leaves should be visibly wet (to runof f, not excessive runof f ). Adjust volume based on canopy size and density. G a l l o n s o f S p r ay M i x tu r e A p p l i e d P e r 1 , 0 0 0 S q f t .

Good Coverage

Bad Coverage

Veg/Light Canopy

T O O L S

1. 5 Complete coverage makes contact where pests hide.

Moderate Canopy

D ense Canopy

2.0

2. 5

Incomplete coverage leaves pests safe and treatments ineffective.

PRO T IP:

Spray to f ull coverage. Leave s should b e visibly wet , not exce s sively dripping . Adjus t volume bas e d on c anopy size and densit y.

K E Y C O N S I D E R AT I O N S

PL ANT H YDR ATION

T E M P E R AT U R E &

HUMIDIT Y & AIR

LIGHT INTENSIT Y

A P P L I C AT I O N

S TATUS

ENVIRONMENT

M OV E M E N T

C O N S I D E R AT I O N S

TIMING

M I X I N G & C O M PAT I B I L I T Y

PPE & REI

EQUIPMENT MAINTENANCE

Clean equipment thoroughly between uses. Residue can clog nozzles and reduce effectiveness. Not all products mix. Always check labels. Do a jar test before mixing multiple products.

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

I N S E C T S

RICE ROOT APHID

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

RICE ROOT APHID

PROFILE R i c e R o o t A p h i d s c o m p l e te th e ir li f e c yc l e in 1 0 – 14 d ay s un d e r o p tim al c o n d i ti o n s . A p hi d s li ve in s o il o r g row in g m e d i a n e a r ro o t s , m a k in g th e m d i f f i c ul t to d e te c t e arl y. A f te r h atc hin g , ny m p h s e s tab li s h f e e ding s ite s o n ro o t s y s te m s , ex tr ac ting p lant f luid s an d c au s ing s tunting an d c hl o ro s i s . Po p ulatio n s c an exp l o d e quic k l y in hydro p o nic s y s te m s w he re they s p rea d throu gh irrigatio n line s . R o o t dre n c h e s , b e n e f i c i a l n e m ato d e s , an d p re d ato r y b e e tl e s c an h e lp w i th c o ntro l .

INDOOR LIFE CYCLE

Winged Adult

Nymph

Actively feeding stage after dispersal.Molts through remaining instars.

Wingless Adult

Nymph

I N S E C T S

Immature

Newborn aphids live born from females . Remain near the bir th site before dispersing, beginning feeding shor tly af ter emergence.

Immature

TIME

Wingless females r e p r o d u c e a s ex u a l l y v i a l i ve b i r t h . W i n g e d f o rm s d eve l o p u n d e r crowding or stress .

Adult

1 -2 D AY S

7- 9 D AY S

1 MONTH

R I C E R O O T A P H I D S T H R E AT P R O F I L E

Damage

Resistance

Mobility

Stealth

Reproduc tion

Population

Population doubles ever y 1 .6 days under optimal conditions (8 0 - 8 6° F ).

WEAKNESSES

STRENGTHS

A sexual (par thenogenetic) indoors . Sexual forms rare except in seasonal outdoor environments .

Hidden in Sub s trate

Tele s coping Generations

Re sis tant Wax y Coating

D elaye d O ns et Sy mptom s

Su s ceptible to Biolo gic al Controls

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

D ep endent on Live Plant s

RICE ROOT APHID

D E T E C T I O N & I D E N T I F I C AT I O N Signs to look for in the plant.

MONITORING

Infested Area

STICKY CARDS Place cards near soil and root s to capture f liers .

STUNTED Look for yellowing leaves , slow grow th and wilting.

Actions taken after Monitoring.

I N S E C T S

DRAINAGE Inspec t drainage for proof of infes tation.

SCOUTING

LIFT

INSPECT

IDENTIFY

Lif t plant s to expose

In s p e c t ro ot s an d

Conf irm the presence

the root zone.

m e dia f o r p e s t s .

of root aphids .

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

RICE ROOT APHID Rice Root Aphids establish in the root zone and multiply rapidly, weakening plants from below and reducing vigor. Effective control requires combining C u l t u r a l sanitation, E nv i r o nm e n t a l moisture management, targeted C h e m i c a l drenches, and B i o l o g i c a l rotations. Use the chart below to match your pressure level and disrupt their root-zone life cycle before populations escalate.

S elec t your pressure level → Match a solution → Rotate methods for bes t result s .

C O N T R O L S T R AT E G Y

LEGEND:

C U LT U R A L

Method

Preventive

CHEMICAL

Light Curative

BIOLOGICAL

Heavy Curative

Start with clean media and clones. Avoid bringing in outside

Sanitation & Exclusion M

E N V I R O N M E N TA L

soil. Keep floors and drains clean. Increase scouting in propagation and veg. Remove infested plants immediately. Remove heavily

I N S E C T S

infested plants. Clean trays, floors, and drains thoroughly.

Root-Zone Moisture Management M

Correct chronic overwatering immediately.

Foliar spray at 60 mL / Gallon. Repeat 2-3x every 3-5 days then weekly

B ea uveria B a ssia n a o r Isa ria Fu m o so ro sea M

irrigation f requency. Reset irrigation schedule.

Root drench at 30 mL / Gallon following root drench procedure.

Athena ® IPM M

Maintain proper drybacks. Avoid constantly saturated media. Increase dryback duration. Reduce

N o te: Ro o t a p hi ds m ay b e s een es c a p i n g t h e ro o t zo n e a f ter a dren ch w h ich ex po s es t h em to s p ray a p p l i c a t i o ns o f a ddi t i o na l At h ena I PM a n d o t h er co n t ro ls .

Root drenches every 3-5 days then weekly

Avoid irrigation for 8-10 hours

Root drench once per week

Azadirachtin M

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

I N S E C T S

F U N G U S G N AT S

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

F U N G U S G N AT S

PROFILE Fu n g u s G n a t s c o m p l e te th e ir l i f e c yc l e in 1 8 – 2 8 d ay s , d e p e n d in g o n te m p e r ature an d m o i s ture . Eg g s are laid in m o i s t grow ing m e dia n e ar th e s o il s ur f ac e , w h e re lar v ae hatc h an d f e e d o n o rg anic m at te r, ro o t h air s , a n d f u n gi . L a r v a e p up ate in th e s ub s tr ate b e f o re e m e r g in g a s a dul t s th at f l y n e a r t h e c a n o py a n d l ay m o r e e g g s . P o p u l at i o n s t h ri ve i n we t c o n d i t i o n s a n d c a n ve c to r r o o t p ath o g e n s . R o o t d re n c h e s , b e n e f i c i a l n e m ato d e s , an d s ub s tr ate d r y b a c k s c an h e lp w i th c o ntro l .

LIFE CYCLE

Egg

Lar va

Larva

T iny, ov al , tran s lucent eggs laid in clusters in moist growing media near soil surface

S l e n d e r, t r a n s l u c e n t w i t h black head capsule. Feed o n o r g a n i c m a t te r, a l g a e , fungi, and f ine root hairs

TIME

3-6 D AY S

2-3 WEEKS

Adult

Pupa

Larvae pupate in top layers of soil/media before adults emerge.

3 -7 D AY S

I N S E C T S

Pupa

Adult

S m a l l , d e l i c a te , m o s q u i to l i ke f l i e s (~2 - 4 m m l o n g) . We a k f l i e r s a t t r a c te d to light and moist sur faces .

7-1 0 D AY S

F U N G U S G N AT S T H R E AT P R O F I L E

Damage

Resistance

Mobility

Stealth

Reproduc tion

Population

Egg → Adult in 3 - 4 week s under warm , mois t conditions .

WEAKNESSES

STRENGTHS

L ar v ae Hidden in S oil

Continuous indoors . Females lay eggs shor tly af ter emerging. Multiple o v e r l a p p i n g g e n e r a t i o n s y e a r- r o u n d .

E xcellent Flier s S pread Quickly

Numerou s Biolo gic al Controls Av ailable

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

Env ironmental Control is Ef fe c tive

F U N G U S G N AT S

D E T E C T I O N & I D E N T I F I C AT I O N Signs to look for in the plant.

MONITORING

Infested Area

STICKY CARDS Place cards near soil and root s to capture f liers .

I N S E C T S

Actions taken after Monitoring.

SCOUTING

INSPECT

IDENTIFY

Check leaves for

Ch e c k s ub s tr ate f o r

Look for adults flying

res ting adult s .

e g g s , lar v a e , an d

near the lower s tem

a dul t s .

and soil.

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

F U N G U S G N AT S

Fungus Gnat s thrive in moist media and damage young root s fast . Control r e q u i r e s c o m b i n i n g C u l t u r a l m o i s t u r e m a n a g e m e n t , E n v i r o n m e n t a l a i r f l o w, targeted Chemical drenches, and Biological larval-control agents. Use the chart below to match your pressure level and stop the gnat cycle.

S elec t your pressure level → Match a solution → Rotate methods for bes t result s .

C O N T R O L S T R AT E G Y

LEGEND:

C U LT U R A L

Method

M e di a M o i s t u re M a na g e m e n t M

S ur fa ce Ai r f l ow & S a ni ta t i o n I N S E C T S

CHEMICAL

BIOLOGICAL

Preventive

Light Curative

Heavy Curative

Allow proper drybacks. Avoid constant saturation.

Increase dryback duration. Reduce i rri g a t i o n f re q u e n cy.

Correct chronic overwatering i m m e d i a te l y. R e s e t i rri g a t i o n s t ra te g y.

Maintain airflow across media surface. Prevent algae growth.

Increase airflow at substrate level. Remove debris and standing water.

D e e p cl ean ro o m . E l i m i na te alga e an d orga ni c b u i ld u p. Sanitize t rays a n d d rains.

Foliar spray at 90 mL / gallon weekly

Athena ® IPM M

E N V I R O N M E N TA L

Foliar spray at 120 mL / gallon 2x per week

Root drench at 40 mL / gallon bi-weekly A l te rn a te d r e n c h , s p r ay, a n d r e s t d ay s

S te i n e rn em a Fe l ti a e (S F) Ne ma to d e s M

50 million / 1100 f t² Weekly or 10 0 million / 110 0 f t² Bi-Weekly F

Stra ti o l a e l a p s Sc i mi tu s M

(Apply sufficient amount to wet substrate without causing runoff )

5 0 million / 110 0 f t² Weekly or 10 0 million / 110 0 f t² Bi-Weekly

Release 50 –100 per liter of substrate if early lar val activity detected

Ba c i l l us Thuri n g ien s i s I sra e l e n s i s M

Apply at label rates F

Dalotia Coriaria M

2– 4 adults per plant Repeat releases until population reduced

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

I N S E C T S

THRIPS

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

THRIPS

PROFILE T h ri p s c o mp l e te th e ir li f e c yc l e in 14 – 2 1 d ay s un d e r w arm c o n di ti o n s . Fe m al e s in s e r t e g g s into l e af ti s s u e , w h e re th ey re m ain hi d d e n f ro m s p r ay s . L ar v a e e m e r g e an d f e e d o n l e af s ur f a c e s , c re atin g s il ve r y s c arrin g , b e f o re dro p p in g to th e s o il to p up ate . Adul t s are m o b il e f li e r s that qui c k l y s p re a d b e t w e e n p l a n t s a n d c a n t r a n s m i t v i r u s e s . M u l t i p l e ove rl a p p i n g g e n e r a t i o n s o c c u r ye a r- r o u n d in d o o r s . T h o ro u g h s p r ay c ove r a g e , p re d ato r y mi te s , an d b e n e f i c ial in s e c t s c an h e lp w i th c o ntro l .

LIFE CYCLE

Egg

First Instar Lar va

Adult

Larva

Pupa

I N S E C T S

Pupa

Second Instar Lar va

Adult

T iny, b ean - s hap e d , inserted into plant tissue. Invisible without magnification.

Pale to yellowish. Feed on leaf and flower tissue by piercing/ sucking plant cells. Resting stage in soil, growing media, or leaf litter where adults develop inside. S l e n d e r w i t h f ri n g e d w i n g s ; b r o w n , ye l l o w, or black depending on species . Highly mobile.

TIME

2-4 D AY S

4 -7 D AY S

3 -7 D AY S

2-3 WEEKS

T H R I P S T H R E AT P R O F I L E

Damage

Resistance

Mobility

Stealth

Reproduc tion

Population

Females reproduce via parthenogenesis or mating. Lay 50 -200 eggs over lifespan. Continuous reproduction indoors.

Egg → Adult in 10 -14 days under favorable conditions (warm, dr y).

WEAKNESSES

STRENGTHS

Hidden Life Stage s in Plant T is sue & Sub s trate

D if f icult to S cout

Fas t Movement Means Rapid S pread

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

Damage is Mo derate and Eas y to Identif y & Monitor.

THRIPS

D E T E C T I O N & I D E N T I F I C AT I O N Signs to look for in the plant.

MONITORING

Infested Area

STICKY CARDS Place cards near soil and root s to capture f liers .

I N S E C T S

Actions taken after Monitoring.

INSPECT

SCOUTING

INSPECT

IDENTIFY

Check leaves for eggs ,

Ch e c k s o il s ur f a c e

Look for

lar vae, and adult s .

f o r a dult s an d p up a e .

silvering leaves .

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

THRIPS Thrips multiply quickly in dense cannabis canopies , feeding on leaf tissue and causing silver streaking, scarring, and reduced photos ynthetic ef f iciency. Ef fec tive control requires combining C u l t u r a l sanitation, E nv i r o n m e n t a l airflow management, targeted C h e m i c a l foliar sprays , and B i o l o g i c a l predator releases . Use the char t below to match your pressure level and rotate methods to disrupt the thrips life cycle.

S elec t your pressure level → Match a solution → Rotate methods for bes t result s .

C O N T R O L S T R AT E G Y

LEGEND:

C U LT U R A L

Method

I N S E C T S

Heavy Curative

Maintain horizontal air f low. Avoid dense canopy microclimates .

Increase airflow through canopy. Remove lower grow th & debris.

Aggressively thin canopy. Maximize air exchange to disrupt hotspots.

Maintain s table temps . Avoid heat s tres s .

Lower temps slightly to slow reproduction.

Reduce heat spikes immediately. Stabilize environment.

Foliar spray at 9 0 mL / gallon 2 x per week .

Foliar spray at 120 mL / gallon 3x per week

Foliar spray at 1 5 0 mL / gallon ever y 3 days for t wo week s

Athena ® IPM M

BIOLOGICAL

Light Curative

Temperature & Plant Stress M

CHEMICAL

Preventive

Canopy Air f low Management M

E N V I R O N M E N TA L

Note: Dip clones in IPM at 90 mL / gallon

A zadirachtin M

Bea uve ri a Ba ssi a na M

A mb l yse i u s Sw i rski i M

Clone dunks before sticking into media and when removing from cloning conditions

(Orius insidiosus) C

Dalotia Coriaria (Rove Beetles) M

Sprench ever y 5 –7 days (max label rate)

Sprench every 7 days

Sprench every 5–7 days

(mid label rate)

(max label rate)

(mid label rate)

Minute Pirate Bugs M

Dip unrooted cuttings before placing into VPDome. Sprench every 7 days.

10–20 mites/plant or sachets at 1 per 1–2 plants; Replace every 4–6 weeks

Ste i n e rn em a Fe l ti a e (SF) N e ma to d e s M

Sprench ever y 7–10 days (mid label rate)

Double Density: 20–50 mites/plant or sachets every plant

50 million / 550 f t 2 Repeat weekly Apply as “sprench” targeting foliage as well N ote: for foliar applic ation s en sure to u s e a wet ting agent s o the nemato de s remain at tache d to leaf sur f ace s .

70 per sqft. introduced when thrips are present as a food source. Good control when sprays are impossible during late flower

500 per 1000 sq. ft. biweekly until established. Can linger in facilities to provide continuing control of soil-dwelling pests.

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

I N S E C T S

SPIDER MITES

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

SPIDER MITES

PROFILE Two - S p o t te d S p i d e r M i te s d eve l o p f ro m e g g to a d ul t in 7 – 14 d ay s , d e p e n d in g o n te m p e r ature . Eg g s l ai d o n l e af u n d e r s i d e s a re p ro te c te d f ro m s p r ay s , s o re p e ate d tre atm e nt s m ay b e n e e d e d . A f te r h atc hin g , mi te s qui c k l y m ature o n f o lia g e , f e e din g an d re p ro du c in g r ap i dl y. T h o ro u gh s p r ay c ove r a g e a n d p re d ato r y mi te s c a n h e lp w i th c o ntro l .

LIFE CYCLE

Egg Egg

Adult

Larva Lar va

Adult

Nymph

Tr a n s l u c e n t e g g s o n leaf undersides, of ten near veins or webbing.

Six-legged, pale stage. Begins feeding immediately by piercing leaf cells.

Eight-legged juvenile. A c t i v e f e e d e r, l a r g e r than larva.

TIME

3-5 D AY S

1 -2 D AY S

4 -7 D AY S

I N S E C T S

Protonymph Deutonymph

Adult

Ei g h t- l e g g e d , ov a l , g r e e n / ye l l o w w i t h t w o d a rk s p o t s .

2-4 WEEKS

S P I D E R M I T E S T H R E AT P R O F I L E

Damage

Resistance

Mobility

Stealth

Reproduc tion

Sexual & asexual. Populations boom in warm, dry conditions.

Population

Egg → Adult in 5 –7 days at 8 0 - 8 6 º F

WEAKNESSES

STRENGTHS

Rapid Repro duc tion

Hidden Fe e ding Site s

Vulnerable to Pre dator y Mite s

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

Chemic al Controls are Ef fe c tive

SPIDER MITES

D E T E C T I O N & I D E N T I F I C AT I O N Signs to look for in the plant.

MONITORING

Infested Area

STIPPLING Look for s tippling or small yellow speck s .

LEAF DROP Watch for leaf drop or unhappy plant s .

Watch for webbing or clumps of mites .

Actions taken after Monitoring.

I N S E C T S

WEBBING

SCOUTING

FLIP

INSPECT

Flip leaves to check for

In s p e c t l e af a x il s , ve in s ,

Look for dark

crawlers + eggs .

un d e r s i d e s , c l o s e l y.

spotting or frass.

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

IDENTIFY

SPIDER MITES Two -Spotted Spider Mites reproduce rapidly in warm , dr y conditions and colonize leaf undersides , causing stippling, webbing, and reduced photos ynthetic ef f iciency. Control requires combining Cu l tu r a l sanitation, E nv i r o nm e nt a l climate management , targeted C h e mi c a l foliar applications , and B i o lo g i c a l predator releases . Use the char t below to match your pressure level and disrupt reproduc tion before hot spot s spread.

C O N T R O L S T R AT E G Y

LEGEND:

C U LT U R A L

Method

E N V I R O N M E N TA L

I N S E C T S

Remove webs and mite clus ters

Remove plant s

Ke e p t e m p s / R H s t a b l e , m a i n t a i n a i r f l o w, a v o i d plant stress.

Increase air f low and clean up debris . Lower leaf temps / VPD.

Lower temps , raise RH brief ly, deep clean room/ equipment .

Spray 9 0 mL / gallon 2 x per week

Spray 120 mL / gallon 3x per week

Spray 1 5 0 mL / gallon 2 days on , 1 day of f for 9 days

1 Sachet per propagation tray Or 1 Sachet per 1 -3 plant s if touching

Athena ® IPM M

Ne ose i u l u s Ca l i fo rn i c u s M

Phy to se i u l u s Pe rsi mi l i s M

BIOLOGICAL

Heavy Curative

Environment M

CHEMICAL

Light Curative

Preventive

Remove M

S elec t your pressure level → Match a solution → Rotate methods for bes t result s .

5 – 10 per sqf t . in hot spot s . Fas t predator for outbreak s . F

Note: good control option in flower when it's too late to spray

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

I N S E C T S

BROAD MITES

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

BROAD MITES

PROFILE B r o a d M i t e s c o m p l e te t h e i r l i f e c yc l e i n 4 – 7 d ay s u n d e r w a rm , h u m i d c o n d i t i o n s . F e m a l e s l ay l e n s - s h a p e d e g g s o n n ew grow th a n d l e af un d e r s i d e s . N y m p h s f e e d o n a c ti ve l y g row in g ti s s u e , inj e c tin g tox in s th at c au s e d i s to r ti o n , t a c o in g , an d s tuntin g . A d ul t s are mi c ro s c o p i c (< 0 . 2 m m) a n d r a p i d l y s p r e a d b e t w e e n p l a nt s . P o p u l at i o n s ex p l o d e q u i c k l y, d a m a g i n g m e ri s te m s b e f o r e s y m p to m s a p p e a r. Pre d ato r y mi te s , s u l f ur, an d f re q u e nt f o liar s p r ay s c an h e lp w i th c o ntro l .

LIFE CYCLE Oval, translucent with white surface ridges. Laid on young leaves and meristems.

Egg

TIME

2-3 D AY S

Lar va

Larva

Six-legged, slowmoving. Feeds lightly on young tissue.

2-3

Immobil e , non -f e e ding s tage hid d e n in p lant ti s s u e . R e s i s tant to s p ray s .

1 -2

D AY S

Adult Nymph

I N S E C T S

Nymph

Ver y small (<0. 2 mm), transparent to pale yellow. Females lay 30 -70 eggs . Males carr y immature females to new sites .

Adult

Adult B R O A D M I T E S T H R E AT P R O F I L E

Damage

Resistance

Mobility

Stealth

D AY S

5 -7 D AY S

Continuous indoors. Females begin l ay i n g e g g s s h o r tl y af te r m atu ri t y. Multiple overlapping generations.

Reproduc tion

Egg → Adult in 5 -10 days under warm conditions .

Population

WEAKNESSES

STRENGTHS

Su s ceptible to Biolo gic al Controls

D if f icult to Monitor and S cout

Damage O ccur s B efore Infe s tation is Found

Mo derate Mobilit y

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

Su s ceptible to Chemic al Controls

BROAD MITES

D E T E C T I O N & I D E N T I F I C AT I O N Signs to look for in the plant.

MONITORING

Infested Area

DAMAGE Look for cupping, hardening, or blis tering leaves .

I N S E C T S

Actions taken after Monitoring.

INSPECT

SCOUTING

C AT C H

SCOPE

Flip leaves to check for

U s e a 3 " s trip o f

O b s e r ve t ap e un d e r

crawlers , eggs , and plant

e l e c tric al t ap e o n th e

2 0 - 6 0 x mic ro s c o p e

damage.

s ur f a c e o f th e l e af

to c o nf irm di s c ove r y.

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

BROAD MITES B r o a d M i te s a r e m i c r o s c o p i c a n d d a m a g e n ew g r ow t h q u i c k l y, c au s i n g t w i s te d l e ave s , h a r d e n e d t i s s u e , a n d s t a l l e d d eve l o p m e n t . C o n t r o l r e q u i r e s c o m b i n i n g Cu l t u r a l s a n i t a t i o n , E nv i r o n m e n t a l h u m i d i t y m a n a g e m e n t , t a r g e t e d C h e m i c a l f o liar ap p lic atio n s , an d B io lo gic al p re d ato r re l ea s e s . U s e th e c har t b e l ow to matc h yo u r p r e s s u r e l eve l a n d d i s ru p t t h e m i te l i f e c yc l e .

S elec t your pressure level → Match a solution → Rotate methods for bes t result s .

C O N T R O L S T R AT E G Y

LEGEND:

C U LT U R A L

Method

I N S E C T S

Heavy Curative

Star t with clean clones . Sanitize tools bet ween plant s . Avoid plant s tres s .

Remove distorted new grow th. Increase scouting in propagation and veg.

Remove heavily infes ted plant s . Reset propagation area if neces sar y.

Maintain s table temps and moderate RH . Avoid heat s tres s .

Lower canopy temps slightly. Improve airflow through canopy.

Reduce heat spikes immediately. Increase air exchange to slow reproduc tion .

Foliar spray at 9 0 mL / gallon 2 x per week

Foliar spray at 120 mL / gallon 3x per week

Foliar spray at 1 5 0 mL / gallon 2 days on 1 day of f for 9 days

Foliar sprays at low label rate.

Foliar sprays at mid label rate.

Foliar sprays at max label rate.

Athena ® IPM M

Wettable Sulfur M

BIOLOGICAL

Light Curative

Temperature & Humidit y Stabilit y M

CHEMICAL

Preventive

Sanitation & Stress Management M

E N V I R O N M E N TA L

F A lternate we ek s with Athena ® IPM N ote: D ip c lone s wet tab le s ul f ur f or ad ditional contro l

N e o se i u l u s Fa l l a c i s M

500 per 1,000 f t 2

Insecticidal Soap (potassium salts) M

Foliar spray spot treatment on hot spot s

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

Foliar spray full canopy ever y 3 – 5 days A lternate we ek s with Athena ® IPM

I N S E C T S

RUSSE T MITES

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

RUSSET MITES

PROFILE R u s s e t M i te s c o m p l e te th e ir l i f e c yc l e in 7 – 1 0 d ay s un d e r w arm , d r y c o n d i ti o n s . Fe m a l e s l ay e g g s o n s te m s a n d l e af u n d e r s i d e s n e a r th e p l ant b a s e . N y m p h s f e e d o n ti s s u e , c au s in g b ro nzin g , l e af curl , an d s te m ru s s e tin g . Adul t s are mi c ro s c o p i c (< 0 . 2 m m) an d we d g e - s h ap e d , migr atin g upw ard a s p o p ulatio n s grow. L owe r b u d s b e co me dr y an d w i s py w hil e new grow th s tunt s . S ul f ur, p re dato r y mi te s , a n d f re q u e nt f o l i a r s p r ay s c a n h e lp w i th c o ntro l .

LIFE CYCLE

Egg Egg

Larva Lar va

Adult

Nymph

TIME

T iny (~2 0 μm), ov al , translucent. Laid on leaf surfaces, petioles, and buds.

2-3 D AY S

First instar with only two pairs of legs . Ver y small and translucent. Feed on epidermal cells of leaves, petioles, and flowers.

2-3 D AY S

Resemble adults but s m a l l e r. F e e d c o n t i n u o u s l y on new plant growth.

2-3 D AY S

I N S E C T S

Nymph

Adult R U S S E T M I T E S T H R E AT P R O F I L E

Damage

Resistance

Mobility

Stealth

Reproduc tion

Population

D if f icult to Monitor and S cout

Damage is V isible B efore Infe s tation is Found

Re sis tant to Mo s t Biolo gic al Controls

Re sis tant to Mo s t Chemic al Controls

Egg → Adult in 7- 8 days under warm , dr y conditions .

Ver y Su s ceptible to Sulfur

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

7-14 D AY S

Sexual and par thenogenetic . Continuous reproduc tion indoors . Females lay dozens of eggs over lifespan.

WEAKNESSES

STRENGTHS

M i c r o s c o p i c , w o r m - l i ke , t a p e r e d a t p o s te r i o r w i t h t w o pairs of legs at head end. P a l e to y e l l o w i s h . V i s i b l e o n l y with 20 - 40× magnif ication.

Mo derately S low S pread

RUSSET MITES

D E T E C T I O N & I D E N T I F I C AT I O N Signs to look for in the plant.

MONITORING

Infested Area

C U P P I N G L E AV E S Check upper plant leaves for cupping (tacoing).

COLOR Obser ve changes in color (rus t on lower s tems)

Watch for slow or diminished grow th.

Actions taken after Monitoring.

INSPECT

I N S E C T S

STUNTED GROW TH

SCOUTING

TA P E

IDENTIFY

Flip leaves to check for

U s e a 3 " s trip o f

Obser ve tape under

crawlers + eggs .

e l e c tric al t ap e o n th e

microscope to

s ur f a c e o f th e l e af

c o n f i r m d i s c o v e r y.

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

RUSSET MITES Russet Mites are microscopic and spread quickly, feeding on stems and new growth and causing bronzing, curling, and hardened tissue. Control requires combining Cu l tu r a l sanitation, E nv ir onme ntal climate management, targeted Che mic al foliar applications, and B i o l o g i c a l predator releases. Use the chart below to match your pressure level and disrupt their life cycle before damage progresses through the canopy.

S elec t your pressure level → Match a solution → Rotate methods for bes t result s .

C O N T R O L S T R AT E G Y

LEGEND:

C U LT U R A L

Method

Propa g a t i o n S a ni ta ti o n & R e m ova l M

I N S E C T S

Te mp e ra t u re & M i c rocl i m a te M

Athena ® IPM M

Wettable Sulfur M

E N V I R O N M E N TA L

CHEMICAL

BIOLOGICAL

Preventive

Light Curative

Heavy Curative

Start with clean clones. Sanitize tools between plants. Scout new growth closely.

Remove distorted new growth immediately. Increase inspection f requency in propagation and veg.

Remove heavily infested plants. Reset propagation area if necessary.

Maintain stable temps. Avoid heat stress. Ensure airflow through upper canopy.

Lower canopy temps slightly. Increase airflow around new growth.

Reduce heat spikes immediately. Increase air exchange to slow reproduction.

Foliar spray at 9 0 mL / gallon alternating week s

Foliar spray at 120 mL / gallon alternating weeks

Foliar spray at 1 5 0 mL / gallon 2 days on 1 day of f for 9 days

Foliar sprays at low label rate.

Foliar sprays at mid label rate.

Foliar sprays at max label rate.

A lternate we ek s with Athena Ag IPM

1 Sachet per propagation tray Or

A . Sw i rs ki i M

1 Sachet per 1-3 plants if touching

15 loose mites per f t 2

3.5 loose mites per ft 2

I sa ri a Fum o soro s ea M

Foliar spray at lower label rates

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

Foliar spray at higher label rates

I N S E C T S

WHITEFLIES

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

WHITEFLIES

PROFILE W h i t e f l i e s c o m p l e te th e i r l i f e c yc l e i n 2 1 – 2 8 d ay s u n d e r w a rm c o n d i ti o n s . Fe m a l e s l ay e g g s o n l e af un d e r s i d e s in c irc u l a r p at te rn s . N y m p h s h atc h , s e t tl e to f e e d , an d b e c o m e im m o b il e s c a l e s th at exc re te h o n eyd ew. Ad u l t s e m e r g e a s s m all , w hi te , m o th - like in s e c t s th at f l y re a dil y w h e n di s turb e d . M ul tip l e ove rl a p p in g g e n e r ati o n s p ro d u c e r ap i d p o p ul ati o n g row th an d s o o t y m o l d . P ar a s i ti c w a s p s , p re d ato r y mi te s , a n d f re q u e nt f o liar s p r ay s c an h e lp w i th c o ntro l .

LIFE CYCLE

Egg

Egg Lar va 1

Adult

Larva

T iny, ov al , laid on leaf undersides in circles or arcs. Color changes from whitish to gray/brown before hatching. Mobile crawlers settle and insert stylets into phloem, becoming immobile, scale-like nymphs fixed to leaf surface.

TIME

4 -12 D AY S

8 -17 D AY S

Lar va 2

Pupa Pupa

Called "red- eye nymph" because adult eyes are visible through cuticles.

4-6 D AY S

I N S E C T S

Lar va 3

Adult

T iny (~1 -2 m m), m o th - like w i th w hi te , p owd e r y w in g s . Ac ti ve f li e r s , e s p e c iall y w h e n di s turb e d . Fe e d o n p h l o e m .

10 -30 D AY S

W H I T E F LY T H R E AT P R O F I L E

Damage

Resistance

Mobility

Stealth

Reproduc tion

Population

Sexual and par thenogenetic . Females lay 150 -30 0 eggs over lifespan. Continuous reproduction indoors.

Egg → Adult in 1 8 -2 5 days under warm greenhouse conditions .

WEAKNESSES

STRENGTHS

Su s ceptible to Biolo gic al Controls

High Mobilit y & S pread

S pray Avoidance

Re sis tant Pupal Stage

Eas y to Identif y

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

Su s ceptible to Chemic al Controls

WHITEFLIES

D E T E C T I O N & I D E N T I F I C AT I O N Signs to look for in the plant.

MONITORING

Infested Area

STICKY CARDS Place cards near soil and root s to capture f liers .

Greenhouse Whitefly

Silverleaf Whitefly

I N S E C T S

LEAF DISTURBANCE Check for dis turbed leaves and adult f liers .

Actions taken after Monitoring.

SCOUTING

INSPECT

IDENTIFY

Check leaf sur f aces to look for adult s

Ch e c k un d e r s id e s o f l e ave s f o r e g g s , lar v a e , an d p up a .

Look for damage to leaves .

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

WHITEFLIES Whiteflies reproduce quickly on leaf undersides, feeding on plant sap and weakening plants while producing honeydew that leads to sooty mold. Control requires combining Cu l tu r a l sanitation, E nv i r o nm e n t a l airflow management, targeted C h e m i c a l foliar applications, and B i o l o g i c a l predator releases. Use the chart below to match your pressure level and disrupt their life cycle before populations spread through the canopy.

C O N T R O L S T R AT E G Y

LEGEND:

C U LT U R A L

Method

I N S E C T S

Install yellow sticky cards. Remove plant debris. Inspect leaf undersides regularly.

Increase monitoring density. Remove heavily infested leaves.

Remove heavily infested plants. Clean floors and benches thoroughly.

Maintain steady airflow across canopy. Avoid heat spikes.

Increase horizontal airflow. Lower canopy temps slightly.

Increase air exchange. Reduce heat and humidity to slow reproduction.

Foliar spray at 9 0 mL / gallon 2 x per week

Foliar spray at 120 mL / gallon 3x per week

Foliar spray at 1 5 0 mL / gallon 1 day on 2 days of f for 14 days

Spray at 7-day interval (mid label rate)

Sprench every 5–7 days at max labeled rate until suppression

Bea uve ri a Ba ssi a na M

1 Sachet per propagation tray

A . Sw i rs ki i M

1 Sachet per 1-3 plants if touching

15 loose mites per ft 2

3.5 loose mites per ft 2

Encarsia Formosa or Erotmocerus Eremecus (depending on whitefly species)

BIOLOGICAL

Heavy Curative

Athena ® IPM M

CHEMICAL

Light Curative

A i r f l ow & Cl i ma te M a na g e m e n t M

E N V I R O N M E N TA L

Preventive

Sa ni ta ti o n & M o ni to ri n g M

S elec t your pressure level → Match a solution → Rotate methods for bes t result s .

90 per 1,000 sq. ft.

450-900 per 1,000 sq. ft.

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

I N S E C T S

FOLIAR APHIDS

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

FOLIAR APHIDS

PROFILE A p hi d s c o mp l e te th e ir li f e c yc l e in 7 – 1 0 d ay s un d e r w arm c o n di ti o n s . Fe mal e s re p ro du c e a s exu all y, gi v ing li ve b ir th to ny mp h s that imm e diate l y f e e d o n p lant s ap . N y mp h s mature r ap i dl y, c lu s te ring o n m e ri s te m s an d l e af un d e r s i d e s . Adul t s are s o f t- b o di e d an d exc re te h o n eyd ew, l e a din g to s o o t y m o l d . P o p ul ati o n s ex p l o d e q u i c k l y w i th c o ntinu o u s ove rl ap p in g g e n e r ati o n s .

INDOOR LIFE CYCLE

Winged Adult

Nymph

Actively feeding stage after dispersal.Molts through remaining instars.

Wingless Adult

Nymph

I N S E C T S

Immature

Newborn aphids live born from females . Remain near the bir th site before dispersing, beginning feeding shor tly af ter emergence.

Immature

Wingless females r e p r o d u c e a s ex u a l l y v i a l i ve b i r t h . W i n g e d f o rm s d eve l o p u n d e r crowding or stress .

Adult

TIME

1 -2 D AY S

7- 9 D AY S

1 MONTH

A P H I D S T H R E AT P R O F I L E

Damage

Resistance

Mobility

Stealth

Reproduc tion

Population

A sexual (par thenogenetic) indoors . Sexual forms rare except in seasonal outdoor environments .

Population doubles ever y 2-3 days under optimal conditions (8 0 - 8 6° F ).

WEAKNESSES

STRENGTHS

Su s ceptible to Biolo gic al Controls

B orn Pre gnant

Winge d Forms c an S pread Quickly

S low Crawler s Minimize S pread

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

Su s ceptible to Chemic al Controls

FOLIAR APHIDS

D E T E C T I O N & I D E N T I F I C AT I O N Signs to look for in the plant.

MONITORING

Infested Area

PL ANT DAMAGE Check for curled leaves and dis tor ted grow th.

Cannabis Aphid

Green Peach Aphid

I N S E C T S

Actions taken after Monitoring.

SCOUTING

FLIP

INSPECT

IDENTIFY

Check undersides of leaves for pes t s .

Ch e c k m e r s i te m s f o r in di v idu al s o r c lu s te r s .

Look for sooty m o l d o r h o n e y d e w.

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

FOLIAR APHIDS Foliar Aphids reproduce rapidly on tender growth, feeding on plant sap and weakening plants while producing honeydew that promotes sooty mold. Control requires combining Cultural sanitation, Environmental airflow management, targeted Chemical foliar applications, and Biological parasitoid and predator releases. Use the chart below to match your pressure level and disrupt their reproductive cycle before colonies spread through the canopy.

S elec t your pressure level → Match a solution → Rotate methods for bes t result s .

C O N T R O L S T R AT E G Y

LEGEND:

C U LT U R A L

Method

I N S E C T S

BIOLOGICAL

Heavy Curative

Reduce nitrogen spikes , remove infes ted leaves

Foliar spray at 9 0 mL / gallon 2 x per week

Athena ® IPM

CHEMICAL

Light Curative

Preventive

Nitrogen Management M

E N V I R O N M E N TA L

Foliar spray at 120 mL / gallon 3x per week

Foliar spray at 1 5 0 mL / gallon 2 days on 1 day of f for 9 days

Note: Dip clones in IPM at 90 mL / gallon

Bea uveri a Ba ssi a n a M

C hr ysop erl a R uf i l a b ri s (Green Lacewing Larvae)

50 per 1000 ft 2 weekly

45-90 per 1000 ft 2 weekly

300 - 400 per 1000 f t 2 for three weeks until established

45 -90 per 1000 f t 2 weekly

150 -200 per 1000 f t 2 for three weeks until established

Aphidius Matricariae M

10 per 1000 ft 2 weekly

F Note: Most commercial parasitoids are less ef fective against Cannabis aphid, although A . matricariae is more of a specialist

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

D I S E A S E

POWDERY MILDE W

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

POWDERY MILDEW

PROFILE P owd e r y M i l d ew th ri ve s in m o d e r ate te m p e r ature s w i th hi g h humi d i t y an d p o o r air f l ow. S p o re s s p r e a d t h r o u g h a i r c u rr e n t s , f o rm i n g w h i te p o w d e r y g r o w t h o n l e ave s a n d b u d s . T h e f u n g u s c o m p l e te s i t s l i f e c yc l e i n 3 – 7 d ay s u n d e r f avo r a b l e c o n d i t i o n s . I n f e c t i o n i n c r e a s e s w h e n l e a f te m p e r ature s d ro p b e l ow th e d ew p o int o r d urin g humi d i t y s w in g s . A d e q u ate air f l ow, re s i s t ant v ari e ti e s , a n d p reve nti ve B a c illu s a p p li c ati o n s c an h e lp w i th c o ntro l .

LIFE CYCLE

Germinating Spore, G e r m Tu b e , a n d Haus toria

TIME

Conidia

White, powder y spores on infected tissue. Dispersed by air currents , workers , tools .

Germination

C o n i d i a g e rm i n a te a n d f o rm a p p r e s s o ri a t h a t p e n e t r a te e p i d e rm a l c e l l s .

4 -12

Mycelial Growth

Super f icial, white, powder y colonies develop on leaves , stems , and buds .

3 -7

Secondary Inoculum

New conidia produced continuously on lesions, enabling rapid spread. Multiple overlapping cycles.

2-6 HOURS

Conidia

D I S E A S E

A scospores

Cleis tothecia

HOURS

D AY S

7-1 0 D AY S

P O W D E R Y M I L D E W T H R E AT P R O F I L E

Damage

Resistance

Mobility

Stealth

Reproduc tion

Population

Mainly asexual indoors; epidemics driven by conidia. Sexual stage rare in controlled environments . D is eas e c ycle complete s in 5 -7 days under f avorable conditions .

WEAKNESSES

STRENGTHS

Su s ceptible to Cultural & Biolo gic al Controls

S p ore s S pread on Worker s and in A ir

Re sis tant S p ore s Hide B et we en Runs

Su s ceptible to Chemic al Controls

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

Su s ceptible to Env ironmental Controls

POWDERY MILDEW

D E T E C T I O N & I D E N T I F I C AT I O N Signs to look for in the plant.

MONITORING

Infested Area

DAMAGE

Look for pale spots, puckering, or dull patches before white growth.

D I S E A S E

E A R LY C O L O N I E S

Small white, powder y fungal patches form on leaf sur f aces and expand outward.

Actions taken after Monitoring.

SCOUTING

FLIP

INSPECT

IDENTIFY

Check upper and lower leaf sur f aces , especially shaded interior leaves .

Examine petioles, stems, and young leaves in humid areas.

Confirm white powdery growth that wipes off easily.

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

POWDERY MILDEW Powdery Mildew spreads rapidly in dense canopies and fluctuating humidity, forming white fungal growth on leaves and reducing photosynthetic efficiency. Control requires combining Cultural sanitation, Environmental airflow and humidity management, targeted Chemical foliar applications, and Biological suppression strategies. Use the chart below to match your pressure level and disrupt spore production before infection spreads through the canopy.

S elec t your pressure level → Match a solution → Rotate methods for bes t result s .

C O N T R O L S T R AT E G Y

LEGEND:

C U LT U R A L

Method

Athena ® IPM

D I S E A S E

Wettable Sulfur M

E N V I R O N M E N TA L

CHEMICAL

BIOLOGICAL

Preventive

Light Curative

Heavy Curative

Foliar spray at 9 0 mL / gallon 2 x per week

Foliar spray at 120 mL / gallon 2x per week

Foliar spray at 120 mL / gallon 2 days on 1 day of f for 9 days

Foliar sprays at low label rate.

Foliar sprays at mid label rate.

Foliar sprays at max label rate.

F Alternate weeks with Athena Ag IPM Note: Dip clones wettable sulfur for additional control

Potassium Phosphites M

Potassium Bicarbonate M

Foliar spray e v e r y 7- 2 1 d a y s

Foliar spray a mid label rate as last resort k n o c kd o w n

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

D I S E A S E

BOTRY TIS

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

BOTRY TIS

PROFILE Botrytis (Bud Rot) thrives in cool, humid conditions with poor airflow. Spores germinate on flowers when moisture is present, penetrating weakened tissue and spreading rapidly through dense buds as gray/ brown mold. Infection accelerates when leaf temperatures drop below the dew point or water remains on foliage overnight. Adequate airflow, humidity management, and preventive biological sprays can help with control, but selecting varieties with smaller colas that are less susceptible to botry tis is critical.

LIFE CYCLE

Conidia

Main source of infection. Pro duce d abundantl y on gray, fuzzy sporulation. Dispersed by a i r, w a te r s p l a s h , to o l s , w o r ke r s .

Germination & Penetration

Conidia germinate on dead or senescent tissue, wounds, or weakened plant parts . Penetrates directly or through wounds

Mycelial growth

Hyphae invade host tissue, killing cells and causing necrosis. Produces characteristic gray mold on buds, leaves, or stems.

Sclerotia

Hard, black resting bodies formed on infected tissue or debris.

Mycelial growth

Infection

D I S E A S E

Sclerotia

Conidia

B O T R Y T I S T H R E AT P R O F I L E

Damage

Resistance

Mobility

Stealth

Reproduc tion

Population

Infe c tion to sp orulation in 3 - 5 days under f avorable conditions ( 1 5 -2 3° C , >9 0 % RH , p o or air f low)

WEAKNESSES

STRENGTHS

C an C au s e L o s s of Y ield

Primarily asexual (conidia). Fresh conidia on new lesions drive rapid, polycyclic spread. Sexual stage rare indoors.

No Ef fe c tive Chemic al Controls

S anitization is Mo derately Ef fe c tive

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

Su s ceptible to Env ironmental & Genetic Controls

BOTRY TIS

D E T E C T I O N & I D E N T I F I C AT I O N Signs to look for in the plant.

MONITORING

Infested Area

E A R LY W I LT

Individual sugar leaves suddenly wilt or die within a bud.

SNIFF Watch for the scent of rotting plant tissue.

Gray, fuzz y mold appears inside dense f lowers .

Actions taken after Monitoring.

D I S E A S E

G R AY M O L D

SCOUTING

INSPECT

IDENTIFY

Gently open dense buds to check internal f lower tissue.

Co nf irm gr ay m o l d an d c o llap s ing f l owe r ti s s u e t y p ic al o f B otr y ti s .

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

BOTRY TIS Botrytis develops in dense flowers under high humidity and poor airflow, infecting interior tissue and causing bud rot that can quickly compromise entire colas. Control requires combining Cultural practices like genetic selection and canopy management, Environmental humidity and airflow control, and Biological suppression strategies. Use the chart below to match your pressure level and disrupt infection before it spreads through the canopy.

C O N T R O L S T R AT E G Y

LEGEND:

C U LT U R A L

D I S E A S E

Method

E N V I R O N M E N TA L

CHEMICAL

BIOLOGICAL

Preventive

Light Curative

Heavy Curative

Humidity & Air f low Management

Maintain stable RH. Ensure consistent c a n o p y a i r f l o w. Av o i d condensation and large temp swings.

Lower RH. Increase h o r i z o n t a l a i r f l o w. Remove lower c a n o p y d e n s i t y.

Aggressively reduce RH. Increase air exchange. Remove infected flowers i m m e d i a t e l y. D e e p clean room.

Athena ® IPM

Foliar spray at 9 0 mL / gallon 2 x per week

Ulocladium spp.

We e k l y f o l i a r applications at label rates

Hydrogen Peroxide / Peroxyacetic Acid

1:400 Dilution applied weekly

Bacillus Subtilis

S elec t your pressure level → Match a solution → Rotate methods for bes t result s .

1:100 Dilution applied weekly

We e k l y a p p l i c a t i o n s at label rates

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

D I S E A S E

PY THIUM

(ROOT ROT/DAMPING OFF)

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

P Y T H I U M (ROOT ROT/DAMPING OFF)

PROFILE P y thium is a water mold that thrives in warm , ox ygen - poor conditions . Motile zoospores s wim through water and nutrient solutions , causing root rot as seen in brown, slimy root s and sudden wilting. In young plant s , infec tion can cause damping of f, where seedlings collapse at the s tem base. In es tablished plant s , infec tions near the soil line may contribute to crown rot , damaging the root– s tem transition. The disease spreads rapidly through irrigation s ys tems and accelerates in nutrient solutions above 78 ° F with low dissolved ox ygen.

LIFE CYCLE

Disease Development

Survival Structures

O o s p o r e s ( t h i c k- w a l l e d , l o n g - l i v e d ) persist in soil, soilless media, root debris, irrigation lines, and biofilms.

Dispersal

Oospores germinate to produce sporangia and zoospores that swim in water and irrigation systems . Also s p r e a d b y c o n t a m i n a t e d w a t e r, d u s t , tools , trays , hoses , and workers .

Root Infection

Zoospores land on root surfaces, germinate, and penetrate via root hairs, tips, or wounds. Infection spreads into the root cor tex , collapsing root s truc ture.

Root Infection

Secondary Inoculum

D I S E A S E

Dispersal

R O O T R O T T H R E AT P R O F I L E

Damage

Resistance

Mobility

Stealth

Disease Development

R o o t s b e c o m e b r o w n , s o f t , a n d w a t e rsoaked . Symptoms include dampingof f in seedlings , wilting, s tunting, chlorosis , poor nutrient uptake.

Secondar y Inoculum

Infected roots produce new sporangia and oospores, driving spread in recirculating water or neighboring plants.

WEAKNESSES

STRENGTHS

Waterb orne S p ore s S pread Fas t

C an C au s e Signif ic ant Crop L o s s

Su s ceptible to Oxidizer Re s et s

No Chemic al Controls Av ailable

Su s ceptible to Biolo gic al Controls

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

Facilit y-wide fer tigation re s et with Renew.

P Y T H I U M (ROOT ROT/DAMPING OFF)

D E T E C T I O N & I D E N T I F I C AT I O N Signs to look for in the plant.

MONITORING

Infested Area

S U D D E N W I LT I N G Yo u n g p l a n t s s u d d e n l y wilt despite mois t media.

CROWN ROT

Collapsed stems, especially in seedlings and clones.

Dark brown rot at the stem base where it meets the media.

Actions taken after Monitoring.

D I S E A S E

DAMPING OFF

SCOUTING

EXPOSE

SAMPLE

TEST

E xpose the root s for visual inspec tion.

Cut some root s of f of the root s ys tem.

Conf irm pathogen with genetic tes t f r o m l a b o r a t o r y.

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

P Y T H I U M (ROOT ROT/DAMPING OFF) Root Rot develops in saturated media and low-oxygen root zones, allowing pathogenic fungi to infect and degrade root tissue, reducing nutrient uptake and plant vigor. Control requires combining Cultural irrigation management, Environmental root-zone oxygenation, targeted Chemical sanitation, and Biological root inoculants. Use the chart below to match your pressure level and restore root health before damage progresses above the canopy.

LEGEND:

C U LT U R A L

E N V I R O N M E N TA L

C O N T R O L S T R AT E G Y

D I S E A S E

Method

Preventive

CHEMICAL

BIOLOGICAL

S elec t your pressure level → Match a solution → Rotate methods for bes t result s .

Light Curative

Heavy Curative

Cultural

Sanitization with Athena® Reset. Use a foamer to sanitize all surfaces with an appropriate contact time. Run through fer tigation systems according to sanitization procedure. Trace down sources of contamination in water systems, materials, or people movement.

Environmental

Ke e p n u t r i e n t s o l u t i o n b e l o w 7 8 º F . I n c r e a s e d i s s o l v e d o xy g e n i n t h e n u t r i e n t s o l u t i o n . U s e U V a n d / o r f i l t r a t i o n in nutrient solution to remove dead root tissue and mold pythium spore load.

120 mL per gallon root drench

Trichoderma spp.

Or Root dip at transplant

Hydrogen Peroxide

Dilute to 20-50 ppm H202 C a u t i o n : H 2O 2 c a n d a m a g e r o o t s . Te s t c o n c e n t r a t i o n b e f o r e w i d e r a p p l i c a t i o n

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

D I S E A S E

FUSARIUM

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

PR I M A R I LY O U TD O O R

FUSARIUM

PROFILE Fu s a riu m i s a s o ilb o rn e f u n g a l p ath o g e n th at inf e c t s ro o t s a n d c o l o nize s th e v a s c u l a r s y s te m , b lo ck ing w ater and nutrient tran s p or t . Inf e c te d p lant s exhibit lower leaf yellow ing , day time w ilting , v a s cul ar b row nin g , an d eve ntu al d e ath . T h e f un gu s p ro du c e s l o n g - li ve d s p o re s th at p e r s i s t in s o il f o r ye a r s ; n o c u r ati ve m e a s u re s ex i s t o n c e inf e c te d , m ak in g p reve nti o n th ro u g h s ani t ati o n an d b e n e f i c i a l mi c ro b e s e s s e nti a l .

LIFE CYCLE

Germination & Infection

Under favorable conditions (warm temps 24 – 30 °C , mois t soils), spores germinate. Germ tubes penetrate root tips or wounds .

Germination

Vascular Spread

Hyphae invade xylem, producing toxins and blocking water transport.

Infection

D I S E A S E

Reproduction

Chlamydospores Vascular Spread

F U S A R I U M T H R E AT P R O F I L E

Damage

Resistance

Mobility

Stealth

Thick-walled res ting spores persis t in soil and plant debris for years . C o n i d i a p r o d u c e d o n

i n f e c te d t i s s u e s p r e a d v i a w a te r, wind, and equipment .

Reproduc tion

Primarily asexual (conidia) during growing season. New chlamydospores form in infected debris for long-term sur vival.

Population

Patho gen p er sis t s indef initely in s oil .

WEAKNESSES

STRENGTHS

Potential for Signif ic ant Crop L o s s

Per sis tant in S oil & D u s t Par ticle s

Su s ceptible to Cultural Controls

No Chemic al Controls Av ailable

Su s ceptible to Biolo gic al Controls

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Su s ceptible to Env ironmental Controls

FUSARIUM

PR I M A R I LY O U TD O O R

D E T E C T I O N & I D E N T I F I C AT I O N Signs to look for in the plant.

MONITORING

Infested Area

S U D D E N W I LT I N G Plant s suddenly droop despite normal irrigation.

CHLOROSIS Leaves begin to turn yellow.

DAMPING OFF

Actions taken after Monitoring.

D I S E A S E

CROWN ROT

Collapsed s tems , especially in seedlings and clones .

Rot at the s tem base causing plant s to decline and collapse.

SCOUTING

EXPOSE

SAMPLE

TEST

E xpose the root s for visual inspec tion.

Take multiple samples of root tissue from mother stock, nursery and veg plants.

Conf irm pathogen with genetic tes t f r o m l a b o r a t o r y.

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

PR I M A R I LY O U TD O O R

FUSARIUM

Fusarium infects roots and vascular tissue, restricting water movement and causing wilting, yellowing, and decline. It spreads through stressed plants and poorly drained media. Control requires combining Cultural sanitation, Environmental drainage and root-zone management, targeted Chemical suppression, and Biological soil inoculants. Use the chart below to match your pressure level and limit infection before systemic damage progresses.

S elec t your pressure level → Match a solution → Rotate methods for bes t result s .

C O N T R O L S T R AT E G Y

LEGEND:

C U LT U R A L

Method

D I S E A S E

Cultural

E N V I R O N M E N TA L

CHEMICAL

Pre-Season

In-Season

Clean Input s Start with pathogen-f ree seeds, clones, and soil.

Irrigation Avoid overwatering and allow substrate to dry.

Organic Amendment s Compos t , chitin sources , biochar, and benef icial microbes . Mulching Organic mulches regulate soil temperature and mois ture, limiting s tress that predisposes plant s to Fusarium . Fabric mulch reduces splash spreading. Trichoderma spp. (e.g., T. harzianum, T. asperellum)

Biological

Bacillus Subtilis & B. Amyloliquefaciens Streptomyces spp. Mycorrhizal fungi

Ch emical

Post-Season

Field Sanitation Remove infected Plant Health plants and debris. Crop Timing Use large, vigorous plants Do not leave plant Plant once soils are warm material on site. that can better resist and dry to reduce early infection. infection risk. Drainage & Soil Prep Improve drainage with raised beds , deep tillage, or soil aeration.

Environmental

BIOLOGICAL

H yd ro g e n p e rox i d e / p e rox y a c e ti c a c i d d re n c h e s

Phosphites (potassium phosphite / phosphorous acid salts)

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

D I S E A S E

H LV

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H O P L AT E N T V I R O I D

PROFILE H o p L a te n t V i r o i d ( H LV ) i s a s in gl e - s tr an d e d R N A p ath o g e n th at inf e c t s p l ant c e ll s an d di s rup t s n o rm a l g r o w t h r e g u l a t i o n . I n f e c te d p l a n t s ex h i b i t s tu n t i n g , b r i t t l e s te m s , l e a f m a l f o rm a t i o n , re duce d v igor, and "dudding " of f lower s w ith de crea s e d c annabinoid p ro duc tion . T he v iroid p er s i s t s in d e f inite l y in p lant ti s s u e; no cur ati ve treatm e nt s exi s t o nce inf e c te d , mak ing p reve ntio n throu gh c l e a n s to c k , ri g o ro u s s a ni t ati o n , a n d re g ul ar te s tin g e s s e ntial .

LIFE CYCLE Infected Clone

Seeds & Clones

Pathogen c an be introduced via contaminated s eeds , clones , or mother plant s .

Early infection

Plant s appear healthy but harbor latent infec tion in vas cular tis sue.

Infected Seeds

Mother Plant

Contaminated Scissors

Infected Clones

Symptom development

Lower leaf yellowing, day time wilting, and vascular browning begin to appear.

Advanced disease

S e v e r e w i l t i n g , ex te n s i v e y e l l o w i n g , vascular blockage, and plant death.

Reproduc tion

HLVd replic ate s by hijacking c annabis cell machiner y (R N A p oly meras e II) and spread s s ys temic ally v ia the plant ' s v as cular s ap.

D I S E A S E

Infected Crops

H O P L AT E N T V I R O I D T H R E AT P R O F I L E

Damage

Resistance

Mobility

Stealth

Population

S pread s rapidly through me chanic al contac t , to ols , and water.

WEAKNESSES

STRENGTHS

Inv isible Until Sy mptoms are Pre s ent

Re duc tion in Grow th and Y ield

Mobile Through Plant T is sue, Worker s , and To ols

Te s ting for Identif ic ation is Av ailable

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Mother Sto ck Rotation c an Minimize Wide spread Infe c tions

H O P L AT E N T V I R O I D

D E T E C T I O N & I D E N T I F I C AT I O N Signs to look for in the plant.

MONITORING

Infested Area

DUDDING Look out for s tunted grow th tips that f ail to develop.

BRIT TLE BRANCHES Stems are rigid, brittle and break easily when manipulated.

90° BRANCHING

Look for twis ted, overlapping or discolored grow th.

L ateral branches grow at right angles from the main s tem.

Actions taken after Monitoring.

D I S E A S E

DISTORTED GROW TH

SCOUTING

EXPOSE

SAMPLE

TEST

E xpose the root s

Take multiple samples of root

Conf irm pathogen

for visual inspec tion.

tissue from mother stock,

with genetic tes t

nursery and veg plants .

f r o m l a b o r a t o r y.

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

H O P L AT E N T V I R O I D Hop Latent Viroid (HLVd) spreads mechanically through contaminated tools, hands, and propagation material, often without early symptoms. Infected plants show reduced vigor, lower cannabinoid content, and yield decline. Control relies on strict Cultural sanitation, disciplined propagation protocols, targeted Chemical tool disinfection, and Biological reset through tissue culture. Use the chart below to contain spread before infection becomes systemic within your facility.

S elec t your pressure level → Match a solution → Rotate methods for bes t result s .

C O N T R O L S T R AT E G Y

LEGEND:

Method

C U LT U R A L

E N V I R O N M E N TA L

D I S E A S E

Testing & Propagation Lab-test propagation material monthly Only propagate f rom conf irmed clean stock Facility & Worker Hygiene Clean and sanitise all tools surfaces and equipment. Clean tools in bleach and rotate f requently. Use and f requently replace gloves and PPE

Ch emical

Roguing Immediately remove and destroy all infected plants upon conf irmed positive test. Trace and destroy the mother stock that the infected plant was propagated f rom. Facility Lockdown Immediately sanitise all surfaces, tools, and equipment in any area where an infected plant was located.

Sanitation Chemistr y Household bleach is the most effective chemistry for sanitising tools and surfaces when transitioning between work areas. Minimum contact time: 5+ minutes for eff icacy against HLV. Water Systems Sanitize all water transport systems where HLV could potentially spread

BIOLOGICAL

Tr e a t m e n t

Preventive

Clean Stock & Mother Management Start only with viroid-f ree mothers, clones, or seeds; micro-propagation f rom meristems. Rotate mother stock every 3–4 months

Cultural

CHEMICAL

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

D I S E A S E

SEP TORIA LE AF SPOT

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

SEPTORIA LE AF SPOT

PR I M A R I LY O U TD O O R

PROFILE S e p to ri a L e a f S p o t i s a f u n g a l p ath o g e n th at inf e c t s f o lia g e th ro u g h s p o re d i s p e r s al , t y p i c all y s t a r tin g o n l owe r l e ave s . I nf e c te d p l a nt s d eve l o p s m all t an to b row n s p o t s w i th ye ll ow c h l o ro ti c margin s that may c o al e s c e , c au s in g p re mature d e f o liati o n an d re du c e d v ig o r. T h e f un gu s s ur v i ve s o n p l a nt d e b ri s a n d f avo r s we t c o n d i ti o n s ; m a n a g e m e nt r e l i e s o n s a ni t ati o n , p ro p e r i rri g ati o n p r a c ti c e s , a n d m aint ainin g d r y c a n o py c o n d i ti o n s .

LIFE CYCLE

Spring Activation

Over wintering

Pathogen sur vives winter on infec ted crop debris and alternate hos t plant s

Spring Activation

Reproductive structures (conidia) develop and mature in spring conditions

Primar y Dispersal

Spores are released and dispersed by splash dispersal to new host plants

Infec tion

P a t h o g e n e n te r s p l a n t t i s s u e t h r o u g h s to m a t a o r d i r e c t penetration of epidermal cells

Reproduc tion

Reproduction occurs through f o r m a t i o n o f c o n i d i a o n i n f e c te d plant tissue.

Over wintering

D I S E A S E

Infection Primar y Dispersal

S E P T O R I A L E A F S P O T T H R E AT P R O F I L E

Damage

Resistance

Mobility

Stealth

Population

WEAKNESSES

STRENGTHS

Easily S pread Through Water and S plashing S oil

Population build s throughout growing s eas on v ia rep eate d c ycle s of sp ore pro duc tion and splash disp er s al , with sur v iv al s truc ture s ensuring p er sis tence through winter months

Per sis tent O utdo or s

D is tinc tive for Identif ic ation

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

S ome Cultural Controls are Av ailable

SEPTORIA LE AF SPOT

PR I M A R I LY O U TD O O R

D E T E C T I O N & I D E N T I F I C AT I O N Signs to look for in the plant.

MONITORING

LEAF SPOT Small brown spot s with dark margins on older leaves .

Yellowing develops around infec ted tissue.

Actions taken after Monitoring.

D I S E A S E

P R E - M AT U R E D E F O L I AT I O N

CHLOROSIS

Infec ted leaves dr y out and drop early.

SCOUTING

SAMPLE

TEST

ADJUST

Cut some plant tissue

Conf irm pathogen

I n c r e a s e a i r f l o w, l o w e r

of f of the plant .

with genetic tes t

h u m i d i t y, a n d a v o i d

f r o m l a b o r a t o r y.

overhead watering.

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

SEPTORIA LE AF SPOT

PR I M A R I LY O U TD O O R

Septoria Leaf Spot spreads through splashing water and prolonged leaf wetness, forming dark lesions that reduce photosynthesis. It thrives in dense, humid canopies. Control requires Cultural sanitation and canopy management, Environmental humidity and airflow control, targeted Chemical foliar applications, and Biological suppression. Use the chart below to limit spore spread before defoliation reduces yield and quality.

C O N T R O L S T R AT E G Y

LEGEND:

C U LT U R A L

D I S E A S E

Method

E N V I R O N M E N TA L

CHEMICAL

BIOLOGICAL

Pre-Season

In-Season

Post-Season

Cul tur al

Choose resistant genetics; promote healthy transplants; avoid overwatering; delay spring planting; isolate new plants 7–14 days; sterilise tools/equipment.

Avoid airborne dust. Limit tractor movement. Use living mulches. water early in the day; improve airflow and spacing; avoid excess nitrogen

Remove all plant debris and roots; sterilise all equipment. Minimize dust movement. Dispose of used soil/ substrates.

Environmental

Raised beds and drainage; incorporate compost with chitin/biochar; apply organic mulch.

(Greenhouse) Lower night humidity; use airflow fans; minimise prolonged leaf wetness via ventilation and heat management.

Remove mulch and surface residues; aerate/till to desiccate residual inoculum.

Trichoderma and Bacillus drenches from propagation to mid-season

Bacillus foliar sprays every 7–14 days; continue Trichoderma soil applications.

H₂O₂/peroxyacetic acid for surface sanitation; phosphites as pre-plant drench for systemic resistance.

Potassium bicarbonate foliar; phosphites every 14–21 days; continue H₂O₂ sanitation.

Biological

Ch emical

Select your pressure level → Match a solution → Rotate methods for best results.

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

H₂O₂/peroxyacetic acid for all surfaces;

I D E N T I F I C AT I O N PHOTOS

RESOURCES

T O O L S

V i s u al re f e re n c e guid e f o r id e nti f y in g p e s t s , p ath o g e n s , an d p lant d ama g e in c annab i s cul ti v atio n .

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

I D E N T I F I C AT I O N P H O T O S

RICE ROOT A PHIDS

T O O L S

Root aphids cluster in the root zone, feeding on roots and causing stunting, chlorosis, and reduced nutrient uptake.

Immature

Winged Adult

Root Damage

Eggs

Larva

Adult

FUNGUS GN AT S

Adult fungus gnats are commonly observed flying near the substrate surface and feeding on roots, soil fungi, and algae.

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

I D E N T I F I C AT I O N P H O T O S

THRIPS

Feeding damage appears as f ine stippling and silver y scarring on leaf surfaces caused by thrips piercing and extracting plant cells.

Pupa

Larva

Adult

Adult T O O L S

T WO - SPOT TED SPIDER MITES

Early spider mite infestations appear as fine yellow stippling on leaves, progressing to webbing and visible mite colonies as populations increase.

Eggs

Larva

Adult

Webbing

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

IID DE EN NT T IIF FIIC CAT AT IIO ON N P PH HO OT TO OS S

BROA D MITES

T O O L S

Damage appears as tightly curled, hardened, and distorted new growth caused by toxic saliva injected while mites feed on meristems.

Eggs

Larva

Adult

Plant Damage

Eggs

Larva

Adult

Plant Damage

RUSSE T MI T ES

Infestations cause bronzing, leaf curl, brittle growth, and dry, underdeveloped flowers, often progressing before mites are visible.

100

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

I D E N T I F I C AT I O N P H O T O S

WHITEFLIES

Feeding results in leaf yellowing and honeydew buildup, often visible alongside white adults that flush f rom foliage when disturbed.

Larva

Pupa

Adult

Adults

Larva

Adult with eggs

Aphid Husks

T O O L S

Eggs

A PHIDS

Colonies cluster on leaves and stems, producing honeydew and weakening plants through continuous sap feeding.

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101

IID DE EN NT T IIF FIIC CAT AT IIO ON N P PH HO OT TO OS S

POWDERY MILDE W

T O O L S

White, powdery fungal growth develops on leaf and flower surfaces, often beginning as small patches that rapidly expand under favorable conditions.

BOTRY TIS (BUD ROT )

Gray or brown mold forms within dense flowers, often starting internally before external symptoms become visible.

102

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

I D E N T I F I C AT I O N P H O T O S

PY THIUM DA MPING OFF

Infected plants show dark, water-soaked roots and stem collapse, leading to rapid wilting and seedling death in saturated media. T O O L S

PY THIUM CROWN ROT

Crown tissue becomes brown, soft, and necrotic at the soil line, restricting water movement and causing sudden plant collapse.

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103

IID DE EN NT T IIF FIIC CAT AT IIO ON N P PH HO OT TO OS S

T O O L S

PY THIUM ROOT ROT

Roots become brown, soft, and water-soaked, leading to poor nutrient uptake, wilting, and rapid plant decline in saturated conditions.

104

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

I D E N T I F I C AT I O N P H O T O S

FUSA RIUM

T O O L S

P l a nts exhibit p ro gressive ye l l ow in g a n d wil tin g as t h e f un gus blocks th e va s cu la r sys te m, o ften revea led by brown d i s colora t ion in side stems.

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105

IID DE EN NT T IIF FIIC CAT AT IIO ON N P PH HO OT TO OS S

T O O L S

HOP L ATENT V IROID

Infected plants show stunting, brittle growth, leaf malformation, and poor flower development, often progressing unevenly across the canopy.

106

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

I D E N T I F I C AT I O N P H O T O S

SEP TORI A LE A F SPOT

RESOURCES

T O O L S

Small brown lesions with yellow margins develop on leaves, beginning on lower foliage and spreading upward under prolonged leaf wetness.

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107

GLOSSARY

T O O L S

ANTAGONIST – An organism that inhibits or competes

D DA MPING OFF – A symptom caused by soilborne

with pests or pathogens. In cannabis IPM, antagonists

pathogens (like Py thium or Phy tophthora) that results

include predatory mites, Bacillus species, and beneficial

in stem collapse near the soil line and death. It thrives

fungi like Trichoderma.

in cool, damp and crowded conditions.

ASE XUA L – Reproduction without the exchange of

DE W POINT – The temperature at which air becomes

genetic material, producing genetically identical offspring.

saturated and water condenses. Maintaining canopy

Many fungal pathogens (e.g., Botrytis) and some insects

temperatures above dew point helps prevent fungal

reproduce asexually under indoor conditions.

diseases like powdery mildew and Botry tis.

A XIL – The angle formed between a leaf’s petiole and the

DISSOLVED OX YGEN (DO) – The amount of oxygen

plant stem. Axils often harbor pest populations like spider

gas dissolved in water or nutrient solution, typically

mite webbing due to their sheltered microclimate.

measured in parts per million (ppm) or mg/L .

DUDDING – A viral or viroid-related condition (often Hop

BIOSECURITY – A set of facility practices designed to

results in the termination of stem growth and plants that

prevent the introduction or movement of pests and pathogens.

are visibly compact with abnormal growth at the growing

This includes using PPE and workflows, air filtration, quarantine

tips. Stunted growth throughout all parts of the plant.

Latent Viroid) that causes weak growth, poor vigor. Dudding

zones, and eliminating modes of entry. BRONZING – A copper or bronze discoloration on leaves, typically from russet or broad mite feeding.

E ENTOMOPATHOGENIC - A pesticide, typically a

Severe bronzing signals cellular collapse and irreversible

fungus, that works by infecting the target pest and

tissue damage.

killing it . E xamples are Beauveria bassiana, Isaria

fumosorosea, and Metarhizium brunneum

CHLOROSIS – Yellowing of plant tissue due to loss of chlorophyll, of ten signaling nutrient imbalance, root

F FA LLOW – A rest period where a room or substrate is

damage, pest feeding. Localized chlorosis may also

lef t empty or planted with a non-host to break pest or

indicate infection or mite, or viral infection.

disease cycles. Fallow periods, combined with sanitation, reduce persistent infestations.

CUPPING – Leaf curling or distortion resembling a cup shape, caused by environmental stress, nutrient

FUNGICIDE – A chemical or biological product that

imbalance, or pest damage. Cupping can curl leaves

suppresses or eliminates fungal pathogens such as

upwards or downwards depending on the stressor.

powdery mildew or Botry tis cinerea. Modes of action include fungistatic ef fects, barriers to infection, cellular

CUR AT I V E – A treatment aimed at reducing or

damage, and metabolic disruption (sulfur).

eliminating an existing pest or pathogen population. Curative ac tions of ten require higher application intensity or stronger chemistries.

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IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

GLOSSARY

MONI T ORING – Routine obser vation of insect or

HONE Y DE W – A stick y, sugary excretion from sap-

simple visual inspection.

disease presence using tools such as stick y traps or

feeding insects like aphids and whiteflies. Honeydew can promote sooty mold growth and reduce photosynthesis

M YCEL IUM – The network of thread-like fungal

on cannabis leaves.

hyphae that grows through substrate or plant tissue. Mycelium is similar in function for both pathogenic

(Botry tis) and beneficial (mycorrhizae) fungi.

segments (head, thorax, abdomen); common examples

include fungus gnats, aphids, and thrips. Spider mites

NECROSIS – Localized death of plant cells or tissues,

and predatory mites are technically not insects because

visible as brown, dry lesions. Necrosis can result from

they have eight legs.

pest feeding, pathogen infection, or nutrient toxicity.

INSECTICIDE – A pesticide specifically formulated to

NYMPH – The immature stage of insects that undergo

target insects. Growers often favor contact or biorational

gradual metamorphosis (e.g., aphids or thrips). Nymphs

products containing approved ingredients that are

resemble smaller adults but some physical features and

either targeted to a specific pest, group of pests, or

reproductive capacity dif fer.

INSEC T – A six-legged arthropod with three body

are broad spectrum.

between molts. Many biological control agents prefer

O OX IDIZE – A chemical reaction where compounds

certain instars of pests.

react with ox ygen, of ten leading to the destruction of

cells. Examples include the destruction of fungal spores by hydrogen peroxide or the interruption of cellular respiration by sulfur compounds.

L ARVAE – The immature, worm-like stage of insects with complete metamorphosis (e.g., fungus gnat larvae).

P PA R ASITE – An organism that lives on or in another organism (the hos t), drawing resources and of ten

MERISTEM – The actively growing plant tissue at shoot

causing harm. In IPM, parasitic wasps are beneficial

tips and root tips responsible for growth. Pathogens like

parasites that lay eggs in pest insects, suppressing their

Hop Latent Viroid can invade meristematic tissue, making

populations while reproducing their own.

clean propagation difficult. PA R T H E N O G E N E T I C – A f o rm o f a s ex u a l MOLT – The process by which arthropods shed their

reproduction where females produce of fspring without

exoskeleton to grow to the next developmental stage.

mating. Many indoor pes t s like aphids and some

Molting cycles af fec t pes ticide timing since some

thrips reproduce parthenogenetically, enabling rapid

materials target sof t-bodied stages. Azadirachtin has

population grow th.

an anti-molting ef fect.

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

109

T O O L S

INSTA R – A developmental stage of immature insects

GLOSSARY

in plants, including fungi, bacteria, viruses, and viroids.

Pathogens can enter through wounds, roots or leaf

SACHE T – A small release packet containing live

tissues, and can be transported by soil particles, plant

predatory mites or other beneficial organisms. Sachets

debris, the wind or even humans.

are hung directly on plants to provide a slow, sustained

PATHOGEN – A microorganism that causes disease

release of biocontrols in the canopy. PEST – Any organism that damages plants, reduces yield, or compromis es qualit y, including ins ec t s ,

SA NITIZE – To clean and disinfect surfaces, tools, and

mites , fungi, or even rodent s . Targeted chemicals

equipment to remove biological contaminants such as

(fungicides, herbicides) all fall under the broad category

spores or over-wintering insects.

of “pesticides”. SCOU T ING – The systematic inspection of plants PESTICIDE – Any substance or mixture used to prevent,

and stick y traps to detect early signs of pests, diseases,

repel, or destroy pests. This includes individual soaps,

or physiological stress. Pest pressure data (incidence,

oils, mix tures of these components, and microbials.

severity) is recorded and tracked to inform IPM program

Ingredients and allowed products are regulated by

ef fectiveness and help choose appropriate controls.

state agencies. SE XUA L – Reproduction involving the combination PE TIOLE – The small stalk connecting a leaf blade

of genetic material from two parents, creating genetic

to the main stem. Petioles are key scouting points for

variation. Some pests switch to sexual reproduction

russet mites and thrips pupae.

under s tress (aphids), increasing their mobilit y or

T O O L S

adaptability. PREDAT OR – A benef icial organism that actively hunts and consumes pests, such as Amblyseius swirskii

SOO T Y MOLD – A black fungal grow th that develops

feeding on thrips lar vae or Phy toseiulus persimilis

on honeydew deposits. While not directly pathogenic,

preying on spider mites.

it reduces light penetration and can stress plants .

PREVENTIVE – A strategy or product applied before pest

SPORES – Microscopic reproductive units of fungi

or disease onset to reduce risk of infestation or infection.

that can spread through air, water, or tools . High

Preventive actions include sanitation, environmental

humidity, dense canopies, and poor airflow favor spore

control, and prophylactic biological releases.

germination on cannabis tissues.

PUPAE – The inactive, transitional stage between larva

SPRENCH – A hybrid application technique combining

and adult in insects with complete metamorphosis. Many

a spray and a drench, typically applied to both foliage

pests (like thrips) pupate in the substrate, making them

and substrate. Sprenches are common when treating

harder to reach with sprays.

fungus gnats or applying microbial inoculants.

S T IPPL ING – Tiny light- colored spot s on leaves caused by piercing-sucking insects or mites removing

RUSSETING – A fine, textured bronzing or roughening

chlorophyll from cells. Heav y stippling of ten indicates

of leaf surfaces caused by microscopic eriophyid mites.

spider mite feeding.

Russeting of ten begins on petioles and buds, leading to brittle, deformed tissues.

S T UN T ING – Reduced or abnormal plant grow th due to stress from pests, pathogens, or environmental factors. Viroids, or root / vascular infections of ten cause stunted, uneven canopies.

110

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

GLOSSARY

SUBSTR ATE – The grow th medium that supports cannabis roots, such as coco coir, rock wool, or peat. Substrate management af fects root health, microbial balance, and acts as a pest habitat. SYS T EMIC RESIS TA NCE – A plant’s enhanced defensive s tate induced by cer tain treatment s or beneficial microbes. Systemic resistance strengthens tis sues agains t a broad sp e c trum of patho gens , especially when plants detect their presence, similar to a human immune system.

T TACOING – A leaf deformation where edges curl upward resembling a taco shell. In cannabis, tacoing can result from heat, low humidity, or russet mite feeding.

V T O O L S

VECTOR – An organism that transmits pathogens from one plant to another, such as aphids spreading viruses or thrips carrying fungal spores. Vector management is central to disease prevention in cannabis and the justif ication for biosecurity SOPS …humans are the greatest vector! VIROID – A small, infectious RNA molecule that causes disease in plants without encoding proteins. Viroids like Hop Latent Viroid can stunt grow th and reduce yield, spreading via cuttings and tools.

IPM GUIDE FOR CANNABIS

111

C U LT U R A L CONTROLS

QUAR ANTIN E PROCE DU RE T O O L S & M AT E R I A L S R E Q U I R E D

Isolation protocol for new plant material Prevent the introduc tion of pests and pathogens by isolating and monitoring new plant material before integrating into produc tion areas .

Designated quarantine area

Hand lens (30 – 60× magnification)

(with restricted access)

Sticky cards for monitoring

Scouting forms/ log sheets

CAUTION: Reject any shipments of new material if they are infested with pests or diseases. Flagging tape or markers

Disposable gloves

NOTE: For harder to scope pests, bag leaves and scope with a 100-300x microscope in a lab.

(to note hotspots)

Plastic baggies (if diagnostic testing is needed)

Sanitized tools (for plant inspection)

QUAR ANTINE PROCEDURE 2-4

WEEKS

Inspect

In s p e c t l e ave s , s te m s , an d ro ot s f o r p e s t s o r di s e a s e . R e c o rd s o urc e , d ate , an d any v i s ib l e s y mpto m s .

Quarantine

I f p lant s p a s s in s p e c tio n , p la c e all n ew p lant m ate rial into a qu ar antin e d are a f o r 2- 4 we e k s .

Monitor

S c o u t p lant s t w i c e we e k l y. Fla g h ot s p ot s , re c o rd in ci d e n c e an d s eve ri t y, an d in s t all s tic k y c ard s up o n tr an s p lant into n ew m e dia .

Treat

Tre at p reve nt ati ve l y w i th IPM during thi s tim e .

Evaluate

I f p e s t s o r di s e a s e are s till p re s e nt at th e e n d o f th e qu ar antin e p e rio d , d e cid e w h eth e r to tre at o r d e s troy.

WORKFLOW

At thi s p o int , p l ant s are re a d y to e nte r p ro du c ti o n . Co ntinu e m o ni to rin g and scouting as a precaution, even when no pests are visible. Apply this protocol ever y time new plant material is introduced.

STICKY TRAP

SCOUTING

C U LT U R A L CONTROLS

CLE AN TO DIRT Y WORKFLOW

You are the primary vector for disease in your facility.

BIOSECURIT Y ENTRY PROTOCOL

C l e a n -To - D i r t y Wo r k f l o w s a r e a b i o s e c u r i t y p r a c ti c e th at p reve nt s th e s p re a d o f p e s t s a n d p a t h o g e n s b y s e q u e n c i n g w o r ke r a c t i v i t i e s f ro m L ow R i s k Z o n e s to H ig h R i s k Z o n e s b a s e d on pest pressure levels .

Clean PPE (gloves, smocks, shoe covers, hair/beard nets)

RISK LEVEL SCALE LOW

ME DIUM

HIGH

Low Severity & Incidence

Medium Severity & Incidence

High Severity & Incidence

Footbaths or s tick y mat s (placed at all entry points)

Hand sanitizer or washing s tation

FA C I L I T Y R I S K M A P Example Daily Schedule Highlighted (A → B → C)

A P R O PA G AT I O N

Eve r y ro o m c arri e s s o m e l eve l of p e s t p re s s ure . O rg anizing t a s k s by ri s k e n s ure s m ove m e nt f l ow s f ro m l ow to high ex p o s ure .

V EG

ROOM 1

F LOWE R

DRY / CURE

ROOM 2

V EG

ROOM 2

NOT E: Sanitize tools at the s tar t of each day as well as be t ween each zone.

WA STE

ROOM 1

QUA R A NTI N E

EX AMPLE CLEAN TO DIRT Y PROCEDURE

7:30 AM

EX AMPLE DAILY SCHEDULE 8:00 AM

Task A: Propagation

Task B: Flower Room 1

Task C: Dry / Cure

? ? ?

Protec t

Put on clean PPE and ensure tools are sanitized before working and between zones .

12:00 PM

Wo r k

Work from Green to Orange to Red, star ting in low risk zones and moving towards higher risk zones .

4 CAUTION: Never go back into a previous zone. If work is urgent, save it for the next day.

SCOUTING

Identif y the risk level of your rooms in order to determine the order of your daily task s .

10:00 AM

Scout

Dispose

Take o u t tr a s h an d di s p o s e o f o r w a s h PPE at th e e n d o f th e s hif t .

2 1 3

C U LT U R A L CONTROLS

STICK Y TR AP PROCEDURE

Sticky traps reveal pest pressure before you see damage. Systematically monitor f lying insec t pest populations by deploying and checking stick y t r a p s , p r o v i d i n g q u a n t i t a t i v e d a t a to s u p p o r t I P M d e c i s i o n s a n d t r a c k p e s t t r e n d s o v e r t i m e . Tr a p s s h o u l d b e d e p l o y e d a s s o o n a s c r o p s a r e p l a n te d .

T O O L S & M AT E R I A L S R E Q U I R E D

Yellow Sticky Traps (general insects)

Blue Sticky Traps (Thrips)

Scouting Log

CAUTION: Avoid placing traps directly against leaves or flowers to prevent crop injury.

Flagging tape or markers

Stakes or wire

Disposable gloves

Sanitized tools

STICK Y TRAP PROCEDURE

Label

L ab el a mix of yellow and blue new traps with zone, date, and trap number.

Flag

Flag zones with newly found pest s or disease hot spot s and repor t to IPM manager.

Deploy

A s soon as crops are planted, Deploy traps at canopy height . NOTE: Place additional traps near doors, vents, and entryways.

Remove

If existing trap sur faces are 50 -70% covered with insec t s or debris , remove traps carefully and replace. Preser ve any insec t s .

Scout & Monitor

Scout and Monitor plant s weekly, moving from clean rooms to dir ty rooms . Log date, zone, subzone and pest count s .

WORKFLOW

Tr a p c o u n t s s h o u l d b e r e v i e w e d w e e k l y to i d e n t i f y p e s t t r e n d s b e f o r e visible damage occurs . Use s tick y trap data to validate scouting f indings and guide IPM decisions.

SCOUTING

TRAP LOG

C U LT U R A L CONTROLS

SCOUTING PROCEDURE

Systematic scouting informs IPM strategy.

T O O L S & M AT E R I A L S R E Q U I R E D

Systematically monitor crops to detec t pest s e a r l y, i d e n t i f y i s s u e s a c c u r a t e l y, a n d t r a c k population trends to guide IPM decisions and clean-to - dir ty work f low planning.

Hand lens

Gather

Flagging tape or markers

Disposable gloves

Plastic baggies

Whiteboard

N O T E : S c ou ting shoul d b e c onduc te d we e k l y a t minimum , and mor e f r e quen t l y during p erio ds o f high p e s t pr e s sur e .

Scouting forms/ log sheets

(30–60× magnif ication)

Sanitized tools

PL ANT SECTIONS TO EX AMINE

Gather tools, scouting forms, and PPE.

Identify

D ef ine zone s and subzone s within each ro om .

Select

Cho o s e random s cout site within each subzone.

Underside of leaves

Surface of leaves

Lower Stems/ soil line

Growing tips

Roots

SCOUTING METRICS Thrips Incidence (%)

Inspect leaves, undersides, growing tips, stems, and roots at each site.

Examine

Incidence (% of plants affected)

Record

Log Incidence (%) and Severity ratings in the scouting form.

Flag & Decide

Mark hot sp ot s , monitor clo s ely, and u s e data to guide IPM s trate g y and clean -to - dir t y work f low.

Severity Scale (1-4) of pest or disease damage

Severity

50%

(1-4)

1 2 3 4

Scouting Time Formula: 10 0 0 sqf t = 5 Scout Sites (20 plant s) 4 adjacent plants per site provide a representative subzone sample. Estimated time: ~5 minutes per site (inspection + recording)

10,000 sqft example: 50 sites × 5 minutes = 250 minutes (~4.2 hrs)

E X A M P L E S C O U T I N G R E S U LT S B Y Z O N E S A N D S U B Z O N E S LOCATION: Veg Room PE S T: Thrips

Zone 1

Zone 2

Sub Zones

Scout Site

Incidence %

3 Severity Rating

Zone 1 Subzone A

A 0

Zone 2 Subzone

Low Incendence, Low Severity Preventative Controls

shows

100% Incidence and Severity 4.

25% Incidence and Severity 1.

Based on this data, the grower de cide s to u s e Preventati ve controls on Zone 1 and Curative controls on Zone 2 . NOTE: Smaller zones increase accuracy but require additional scout time.

High Incendence, High Severity Curative Controls

Room Risk Level Room is rated Orange ri s k l eve l f o r c l e an wo rk f l ow p urp o s e s .

C O N T R O L S T R AT E G Y L O G 1

Record the name of the pest /disease

Mark the risk level of the pest

Mark the acceptable levels of severity for each control method

RISK LEVEL:

Pest/Disease:

METHOD

Produc ts

SEVERITY

Choose the most ef fective controls and application rates for that pest

L igh t Cu rative

Preve n tive

H eavy Curat i ve

Notes

Subzone

Zone/Subzone

Zone

Scout

Date

Card Number Fungus Gnats (# of Pests per Card)

Thrips (# of Pests per Card) (# of Pests per Card)

Aphids

Root Aphid Flyers (# of Pests per Card)

STICK Y TRAP MONITORING LOG

C U LT U R A L CONTROLS

Benef icials

Other

Zone

Subzone

Severity

Scale (1-4) of pest or disease damage

SCOUTING METRICS

Zone

(% of plants af fected in a zone)

Incidence

Risk Level

Location

Scout

Date

Density

Quantity (1-4) of beneficials

Incidence (%) (1-4)

(1-4)

3 4

1 2 3 4

1 2 3

3 4

1 2 3 4

3 4

1 2 3 4

LOW

HIGH

MEDIUM

RI S K LE VE L SC ALE

1 2

Incidence (%) (1-4)

(1-4)

Incidence (%) 1

(1-4)

4 Severe

Incidence (%)

(1-4)

Severity

Russets

Expanding

Severity

Powdery Mildew

2 Established

SEVERIT Y SCALE

Minimal

Severity

Aphids Incidence (%)

Notes

Severity

Fungus Gnats

Us e thi s lo g to r ate s everit y and incidence. T hen r ate the ri sk of your ro om ba s e d on the data .

3 4

1 2

(1-4)

Severity

Incidence (%)

Severity

Root Aphid

Incidence (%)

Spider Mites

Severity

Thrips

SCOUTING LOG

C U LT U R A L CONTROLS

Incidence (%)

(1-4)

Density

Benef icials

SPIDER MITES

IMPERIAL

NOTE: To incorp orate additional mo de s of ac tion , us e the control s trate gie s in this b o ok .

VEG

*All measurements are mL per gallon Application Frequency

FLOWER

Spray 2x per week

Spray 3x per week

120

• Spray 2 day

150

Preventative (no pests)

Curative (some pests)

Infestation

• Off 1 day

(Infested with pests, possible crop loss)

Repeat above for a 9 day total cycle.

150

Spray Procedure

Infestation F o r s p i d e r m i te inf e s t at i o n s w e re c o m m e n d t w o c o n s e c u t i ve d ay s o f s p r ay i n g f o l l o w e d b y o n e d ay o f f. T h e d ay o f f a l l o w s t h e p l a nt to re s t b e c au s e re p e ate d s p r ay i n g c a n s t re s s t h e p l a nt d u ri n g t h i s p ro c e s s . I f t h e g ro w e r n o t i c e s a ny a d v e r s e reac tio n like w ilting o r other p hy totoxic reac tio n s , they s hould add more days of f between the spray routine. This rotation is repeated 3 times over a 9 -day period (the 9th day is a day off ). Our IPM Spray Procedure is designed to prevent and control spider mites in your garden.

Larvae

Juveniles

3 E V E N LY S PACE D S PR AY E V E N T S TO D I S R U P T R E PR O D U C T I V E C YCLE .

HOT TER TEMPERATURES WILL NEED SHORTER SPRAY INTERVALS.

CAUTION: STEP 1 IS VERY IMPORTANT. FULL SATURATION.

Climate

R e d u c e te m p e r atu re to a ro u n d 7 2 ° F a n d u s e d e hu m i d i f i e r s to m a i nt a i n hu m i d i t y a ro u n d 5 5 - 6 5 % to p re v e nt m o l d a n d m i l d e w i s s u e s .

Lighting

Only spray when high intensity lights are turned of f to prevent burning.

Spray

S t a r t b y s p r ay i n g t h e s u b s t r ate , f o l l o w i n g u p t h e s t a l k m a k i n g s u re to d re n c h t h e u n d e r s i d e s o f t h e l e av e s . F o l l o w w i t h a s p r ay o v e r t h e to p to e n s u re f u l l s atu r at i o n o f a l l p l a nt f o l i a g e .

Dry

Allow enough time to dr y (3 - 4 hours) before high intensit y light s are turned on.

Adults

~15 days

Conducted by UC Davis, Department of Entomology and Nematology Disclaimer: The research results presented herein are the outcome of independent research conducted by UC Davis. UC Davis is not affiliated with Athena Ag, Inc., nor does it endorse the product referenced herein. Any reference to UC Davis is solely for the purpose of identifying the institution where the research was conducted. * 202 3 Athena ® IPM Ef f icacy Study demonstrates 97% spider mite mortality rate at 200mL per gallon use rate.

Broad Spectrum Insecticide & Fungicide

150

Fully s aturate the sub s trate with pH a d ju s te d w ate r. I f t h e p l a nt i s f u l l y hy d r ate d , i t w i l l n o t a b s o rb I P M t h ro u g h i t s l e av e s . I f t h e p l a nt i s d e hy d r ate d , i t w i l l a b s o rb I P M t h ro u g h i t s l e av e s . S k i p p i n g t h i s s te p c a n c au s e b u rn i n g o r p hy to tox i c re a c t i o n s .

~8 days

IPM

150

COLDER TEMPERATURES WILL NEED LONGER SPRAY INTERVALS.

Saturate

AV E R AG E R E PR O D U C T I V E C YCLE

Spider Mite Reproductive Cycle Eggs

DISCL AIMER: U s e r s ar e r e min d e d t o a dh e r e t o l o c al , s t a t e , an d f e d e r al r e gul a t i o n s g o v e r nin g t h e u s e o f t hi s pr o duc t . I t i s t he u s e r ' s r e s p on s ibili t y t o v alid a t e i t s s ui t ab ili t y f o r t h e ir in t e n d e d p ur p o s e , e n s ur in g c omplianc e w i t h s a f e t y, env ir onmen t al, and r e gula t or y gui de lin e s . A t h e n a A g , In c . di s c l aim s li ab ili t y f or an y mi s u s e or f ailur e t o c omp l y w i t h t h e s e r e gul a t i on s .

Fully Saturating the Substrate T h e te c hni qu e o f f ull y s atur atin g th e s ub s tr ate f ir s t , m ake s s ure th e p l ant i s f u l l y hyd r a te d , s o t h a t i t d o e s n o t u p t a ke I P M w h e n applie d . O nce the spraying is complete, allow the plant to dr y down to yo ur n o rm a l p re f e re n c e a n d re s um e yo ur irri g at i o n s c h e d ul e . I f t h e g ro w e r s e e s a ny a d v e r s e re a c t i o n i n t h e p l a nt s , s to p a n d t a ke a d ay o r t w o o f f b e f o re re - a p p l y i n g .

Read the entire Directions for Use, Conditions of Warranties, and Limitations of Liability before using this product. If the terms are not acceptable, return the unopened product container at once. By using this product, user or buyer accepts the following Conditions, Disclaimer of Warranties, and Limitations of Liability. CONDITIONS: The directions for use of this product are believed to be adequate and must be followed carefully. However, it is impossible to eliminate all risks associated with the use of this product. Crop injur y, inef fectiveness, or other unintended consequences may result because of such factors such as weather conditions, presence of other materials, or the manner of use or application, all of which are beyond the control of Athena Ag, Inc. All such risks shall be assumed by the user or buyer. DISCLAIMER OF WARRANTIES: To the extent consistent with applicable law, Athena Ag, Inc. makes no other warranties, express or implied, of merchantability or of fitness for a particular purpose or otherwise, that extend beyond the statements made on the product’s label. No agent of Athena Ag, Inc. is authorized to make any warranties beyond those contained herein or to modify the warranties contained herein. To the extent consistent with applicable law, Athena Ag, Inc. disclaims any liability whatsoever for special, incidental, or consequential damages resulting from the use or handling of this product. LIMITATIONS OF LIABILITY: To t he ex t en t consis t en t wi t h applic able law, t he exclusive r emedy o f t he user or buyer f or any and all lo s se s, injur ie s, or damage s r e sul t ing f r om t he use or handling o f t his pr oduc t , whe t her in con t rac t , war ran t y, t or t , negligence, s t r ic t liabili t y or o t her wise, shall no t exceed t he pur chase pr ice paid, or a t At hena Ag Inc .’s elec t ion, t he r eplacemen t o f pr oduc t .

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W H I T E F LY

IMPERIAL

NOTE: To incorp orate additional mo de s of ac tion , us e the control s trate gie s in this b o ok .

VEG

*All measurements are mL per gallon Application Frequency Preventative (no pests)

Curative (some pests)

FLOWER

Spray 2x per week

Spray 3x per week

120

• Spray 1 day Infestation

• Off 2 days

(Infested with pests, possible crop loss)

Repeat above for a 14 day total cycle.

150

For whitef ly infes tations we recommend a high s trength spray followed by 2 consecutive days of f. The days of f allow the plant to res t because repeated spraying can s tress the plant during this process . If the grower notices any adverse reac tion like wilting or other phy totoxic r e a c t i o n s , t h e y s h o u l d add more days of f between the spray routine. This rotation is repeated 3 times over a 14 -day period. Our IPM Spray Procedure is designed to prevent and control whitefly in your garden.

150

Larvae

Juveniles

3 E V E N LY S PACE D S PR AY E V E N T S TO D I S R U P T R E PR O D U C T I V E C YCLE .

HOT TER TEMPERATURES WILL NEED SHORTER SPRAY INTERVALS.

150

CAUTION: STEP 1 IS VERY IMPORTANT. FULL SATURATION.

Climate

Lighting

Only spray when high intensity lights are turned of f to prevent burning.

Spray

Dry

Allow enough time to dr y (3 - 4 hours) before high intensit y light s are turned on.

~28 days

Disclaimer: The research results presented herein are the outcome of independent research conducted by UC Davis. UC Davis is not affiliated with Athena Ag, Inc., nor does it endorse the product referenced herein. Any reference to UC Davis is solely for the purpose of identifying the institution where the research was conducted. * 2 0 2 3 At h e n a ® I P M E f f i c a c y S tu d y demonstrates 94% whitefly mortality rate at 200mL per gallon use rate.

Broad Spectrum Insecticide & Fungicide

Adults

Conducted by UC Davis, Department of Entomology and Nematology

IPM

150

~18 days

COLDER TEMPERATURES WILL NEED LONGER SPRAY INTERVALS.

Saturate

AV E R AG E R E PR O D U C T I V E C YCLE

Whitefly Reproductive Cycle

Spray Procedure

Infestation

Eggs

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THRIPS

IMPERIAL

NOTE: To incorp orate additional mo de s of ac tion , us e the control s trate gie s in this b o ok .

VEG

*All measurements are mL per gallon Application Frequency Preventative (no pests)

Curative (some pests)

FLOWER

Spray 2x per week

Spray 3x per week

120

• Spray 1 day Infestation

• Off 2 days

(Infested with pests, possible crop loss)

Repeat above for a 14 day total cycle.

150

For thrip infestations we recommend a high strength spray followed by 2 consecutive days of f. The days of f allow the plant to res t because repeated spraying can s tress the plant during this process . If the grower notices any adverse reac tion like wilting or other phy totoxic r e a c t i o n s , t h e y s h o u l d add more days of f between the spray routine. This rotation is repeated 3 times over a 14 -day period. Our IPM Spray Procedure is designed to prevent and control thrips in your garden.

150

Larvae

Juveniles

5 E V E N LY S PACE D S PR AY E V E N T S TO D I S R U P T R E PR O D U C T I V E C YCLE .

HOT TER TEMPERATURES WILL NEED SHORTER SPRAY INTERVALS.

150

CAUTION: STEP 1 IS VERY IMPORTANT. FULL SATURATION.

Climate

Lighting

Only spray when high intensity lights are turned of f to prevent burning.

Spray

Dry

Allow enough time to dr y (3 - 4 hours) before high intensit y light s are turned on.

~20 days

Disclaimer: The research results presented herein are the outcome of independent research conducted by UC Davis. UC Davis is not affiliated with Athena Ag, Inc., nor does it endorse the product referenced herein. Any reference to UC Davis is solely for the purpose of identifying the institution where the research was conducted. * 2 0 2 3 At h e n a ® I P M E f f i c a c y S tu d y demonstrates 99% thrips mortality rate at 200mL per gallon use rate.

Broad Spectrum Insecticide & Fungicide

Adults

Conducted by UC Davis, Department of Entomology and Nematology

IPM

150

~12 days

COLDER TEMPERATURES WILL NEED LONGER SPRAY INTERVALS.

Saturate

AV E R AG E R E PR O D U C T I V E C YCLE

Thrips Reproductive Cycle

Spray Procedure

Infestation

Eggs

DISCL AIMER: U s e r s ar e r e m in d e d t o a d h e r e t o l o c al , s t a t e , a n d f e d e r a l r e g u l a t i o n s g o ve r n i n g t h e u s e o f t hi s p r o du c t . I t i s t h e u s e r ' s r e s p o n s ib ili t y t o vali da t e its suitability for their intended purpose, ensuring c omplianc e wi th s af e t y, env ir onmen t al, and r e gula tor y gui d e lin e s . A t h e na A g , In c . di s c laim s liab ili t y f o r any mi s u s e o r f ailur e t o c o mp l y w i t h t h e s e r e gula t i o n s .

Read the entire Directions for Use, Conditions of Warranties, and Limitations of Liability before using this product. If the terms are not acceptable, return the unopened product container at once. By using this product, user or buyer accepts the following Conditions, Disclaimer of Warranties, and Limitations of Liability. CONDITIONS: The directions for use of this product are believed to be adequate and must be followed carefully. However, it is impossible to eliminate all risks associated with the use of this product. Crop injury, inef fectiveness, or other unintended consequences may result because of such factors such as weather conditions, presence of other materials, or the manner of use or application, all of which are beyond the control of Athena Ag, Inc. All such risks shall be assumed by the user or buyer. DISCLAIMER OF WARRANTIES: To the extent consistent with applicable law, Athena Ag, Inc. makes no other warranties, express or implied, of merchantability or of fitness for a particular purpose or otherwise, that extend beyond the statements made on the product’s label. No agent of Athena Ag, Inc. is authorized to make any warranties beyond those contained herein or to modify the warranties contained herein. To the extent consistent with applicable law, Athena Ag, Inc. disclaims any liability whatsoever for special, incidental, or consequential damages resulting from the use or handling of this product. LIMITATIONS OF LIABILITY: To the ex tent consis tent with applicable law, the exclusive remedy of the user or buyer for any and all los ses, injuries, or damages resulting f rom the use or handling of this produc t , whe ther in contrac t , warrant y, tor t , negligence, s tric t liabilit y or other wise, shall not exceed the purchase price paid, or at Athena Ag Inc .’s elec tion, the replacement of produc t .

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APHIDS

IMPERIAL

NOTE: To incorp orate additional mo de s of ac tion , us e the control s trate gie s in this b o ok .

VEG

*All measurements are mL per gallon Application Frequency

FLOWER

Spray 2x per week

Spray 3x per week

120

• Spray 2 day

150

Preventative (no pests)

Curative (some pests)

Infestation

• Off 1 day

(Infested with pests, possible crop loss)

Repeat above for a 9 day total cycle.

150

Spray Procedure

Infestation For aphid infestations we recommend two consecutive d ay s o f s p r ay i n g f o l l o w e d b y o n e d ay o f f. T h e d ay o f f a l l o w s t h e p l a nt to re s t b e c au s e re p e ate d s p r ay i n g c a n s t re s s t h e p l a nt d u ri n g t h i s p ro c e s s . I f t h e g ro w e r n o t i c e s a ny a d v e r s e reac tio n like w ilting o r other p hy totoxic reac tio n s , they s hould add more days of f between the spray routine. This rotation is repeated 3 times over a 9 -day period (the 9th day is a day off ). Our IPM Spray Procedure is designed to prevent and control aphids in your garden.

Larvae

Juveniles

3 E V E N LY S PACE D S PR AY E V E N T S TO D I S R U P T R E PR O D U C T I V E C YCLE .

HOT TER TEMPERATURES WILL NEED SHORTER SPRAY INTERVALS.

CAUTION: STEP 1 IS VERY IMPORTANT. FULL SATURATION.

Climate

Lighting

Only spray when high intensity lights are turned of f to prevent burning.

Spray

Dry

Allow enough time to dr y (3 - 4 hours) before high intensit y light s are turned on.

Adults

~15 days

Conducted by UC Davis, Department of Entomology and Nematology Disclaimer: The research results presented herein are the outcome of independent research conducted by UC Davis. UC Davis is not affiliated with Athena Ag, Inc., nor does it endorse the product referenced herein. Any reference to UC Davis is solely for the purpose of identifying the institution where the research was conducted. * 2 0 2 3 At h e n a ® I P M E f f i c a c y S tu d y demonstrates 96% aphids mortality rate at 200mL per gallon use rate.

Broad Spectrum Insecticide & Fungicide

150

~8 days

IPM

150

COLDER TEMPERATURES WILL NEED LONGER SPRAY INTERVALS.

Saturate

AV E R AG E R E PR O D U C T I V E C YCLE

Aphids Reproductive Cycle Eggs

DISCL AIMER: U s e r s ar e r e m in d e d t o a d h e r e t o l o c al , s t a t e , a n d f e d e r a l r e g u l a t i o n s g o ve r n i n g t h e u s e o f t hi s p r o du c t . I t i s t h e u s e r ' s r e s p o n s ib ili t y t o vali da t e its suitability for their intended purpose, ensuring c omplianc e wi th s af e t y, env ir onmen t al, and r e gula tor y gui d e lin e s . A t h e na A g , In c . di s c laim s liab ili t y f o r any mi s u s e o r f ailur e t o c o mp l y w i t h t h e s e r e gula t i o n s .

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TA N K M I X S P R AY

IMPERIAL

NOTE: To incorp orate additional mo de s of ac tion , us e the control s trate gie s in this b o ok .

VEG

*All measurements are mL per gallon

Application Frequency

Preven tative

IPM

TA N K MIX

(S pray 2x per week )

Stack

FLOWER

CAUTION: TO PREVENT RESIDUE FROM FORMING ON THE FOLIAGE, WE SUGGEST USING RO WATER.

Tank Mix Advantages

Spray Procedure

Athena ® IPM has also proven ef fective against various pests and pathogens including spider mites , powder y mildew and fungus gnat s . Combining both produc t s allows you to fer tilize your plant s while at the same time es tablishing a line of defense from pes t s and fungal pathogens .

Fill

Fill a container with RO water for the a m o u n t o f p l a n t s y o u a r e g o i n g t o s p r a y.

IPM

A d d Athena ® IPM a t 9 0 m L / G a l a n d agitate until thoroughly mixed.

Stack

Add 7 mL /Gal of Athena ® Stack and agitate until it is mixed. Contains organic ingredient that could separate in storage so shake well before each use.

Saturate

Full y s atur ate the s ub s tr ate w ith the current fer tilizer water. If the plant is fully hydrated, it will not abs orb IPM through it s leaves . If the plant is dehydrate d , it will ab s orb IPM through it s leave s . Sk ipping this s tep c an cause burning or phy totoxic reac tions .

Temp

Lower temperature to around 72° F and use dehumidifiers to maintain humidity around 5 5 - 6 5% to prevent mold and mildew is sues .

Lights

O nl y s pray w hen high inten s it y light s are turne d of f to prevent burning ( Work light s or green light s only, no grow light s).

Spray

Star t by spraying the subs trate, following up th e s t alk m ak in g s ure to dre n c h th e undersides of the leaves .

Spray

Follow with a spray over the top to ensure full s aturation of all plant foliage.

Dry

Allow enough time to dr y (3 - 4 hours) b e f o re hi g h inte n s i t y li g ht s a re turn e d o n .

Athena ® Stack, being derived from kelp extract ( A s c o p hy llum n o d o s um), p rov i d e s b i o av ail ab l e nu tri e nt s w hi c h c re ate f avorable conditions for lateral grow th , bud development , a n d im p rove d v i g o r d u rin g t r a n s i t i o n . Mixing both Athena ® IPM and Athena ® Stack together in the same solution is compatible for a foliar application and will result in less wasted product as well as save on labor costs .

IPM

Broad Spectrum Insecticide & Fungicide

Stack

Bloom Enhancer

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F U N G U S G N AT S

IMPERIAL

VEG

*All measurements are mL per gallon Application Frequency

Preventative (no pests)

Curative (some pests)

Infestation (Infested with pests, possible crop loss)

Spray 1x per week

F L OW E R

Drench 1x biweekly

Spray 2x per week

120

Drench 1x per week

Run this procedure for 2 weeks

120

Spray

Infestation

120 40

Drench Procedure

For infes ted root zones , we recommend a day of drench, f o ll ow e d by a d ay o f s p r ay, f o ll ow e d by o n e d ay o f f. T h e d ay o f f a l l o w s t h e p l a nt to re s t b e c au s e d re n c h i n g a n d s p r ay i n g c a n s t re s s t h e p l a nt d u rin g t hi s p ro c e s s . I f t h e g ro w e r n o t i c e s a ny ad ver s e reac tion like w ilting or other phy totoxic reac tion s , they s hould add more day s of f b et we en the drench and s pray routine. T h i s r o t a t i o n i s r e p e a te d o v e r a t w o w e e k p e r i o d to k n o c k

120

Drench

CAUTION: STEP 1 IS VERY IMPORTANT. FULL SATURATION.

Saturate

Saturate the subs trate with pH adjus ted water

Drench

D re n c h a l l g ro w i n g s u b s t r ate to r u n o f f with the IPM solution

Wait

Wa i t 4 5 m i n - 1 h o u r

Flush

F l u s h a g a i n w i t h t h e a p p ro p ri ate f e r t i l ize r f o r t h at p l a nt s t a g e

d ow n lar v a e d we lling in the ro ot-zo ne and a dult s in the f o liage . O u r I P M D r e n c h Pr o c e d u r e i s d e s ign e d to re du c e b u g p re s s ure enou gh to g et the p lant s (in that run) to har ve s t . Once successful, remove the rootzone of all plant s and star t over.

Flushing the Substrate

CAUTION: Drench procedure should be done with a sump pump and a hose. IPM should not be ran through irrigation systems.

IPM Broad Spectrum Insecticide & Fungicide

T h e te c h n i q u e o f f u l l y s atu r at i n g t h e s u b s t r ate f i r s t , m a ke s s u re t h e p l a nt i s f u l l y hyd r a t e d , s o t h a t i t d o e s n o t u p t a ke I P M w h e n a p p l i e d . T h e f i n a l f l u s h re m o v e s t h e I P M f ro m t h e ro o t zo n e a n d g e t s nu t ri e nt s b a c k to t h e ro o t s . O n c e t h e d re n c h i s c o m p l e te , a l l o w t h e p l a nt to d r y d o w n to y o u r n o rm a l p re f e re n c e a n d re s u m e y o u r i rri g at i o n s c h e d u l e . I f t h e g ro w e r s e e s a ny a d v e r s e re a c t i o n i n t h e p l a nt s , s to p a n d t a ke a d ay o r t w o o f f b e f o re re - a p p l y i n g .

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IPM + SULFUR

IMPERIAL

VEG

*All measurements are mL per gallon Application Frequency

IPM

Preventative (no pests)

(2x per week)

IPM

Curative (some pests)

(3x per week)

FLOWER

120

CAUTION: MUST SPRAY IPM & SULFUR 7 DAYS APART IPM Sulfur (Infestation)

120

(1x every 14 days)

Sulfur

120

1-3

(1x every 14 days)

TBSP

Spray Procedure

IPM can be used in conjunction with sulfur in your IPM program without fear of a phy totoxic reaction because IPM has a low oil formulation. Over time, pests can become resistant to pesticides, so rotating pest control products is a great way to increase the overall ef fectiveness of a pest management program. When spraying IPM be sure to cover all foliage and stems, concentrating on the underside of the leaves. Full coverage is key to managing pests because IPM and sulfur are both contact killers. Use the IPM + sulfur combination to wipe out molds and mildew or invasive pests such as russet mite or broad mite. IPM and sulfur are your one-two punch against pests and pathogens in your garden.

Broad Spectrum Insecticide & Fungicide

1-3

TBSP

IPM + Sulfur

IPM

120

1-3

TBSP

CAUTION: STEP 1 IS VERY IMPORTANT. FULL SATURATION.

Saturate

Fully s aturate the sub s trate with pH adjus ted w a t e r. I f t h e p l a n t i s f u l l y h y d r a t e d , i t w i l l n o t a b s o r b IPM t h r o u g h i t s l e a v e s . I f t h e p l a n t i s d e h y d r a t e d , i t w i l l a b s o r b IPM through it s leaves . Skipping this s tep can cause burning or phy totoxic reac tions .

Climate

Lower temperature to around 7 2 ° F a n d u s e d e h u m i d i f i e r s t o m a i n t a i n hu mi d i t y a ro u n d 5 5 - 6 5 % to p re ve nt m o l d a n d mildew issues.

Lighting

On ly s p ray w h e n h ig h in ten si ty l i g h ts are t u rn e d o f f to p reve n t b u rn i n g .

Spray

St a r t by s pray in g t h e s u b strate , fol l owi n g u p t h e s t a lk ma kin g s u re to dre n ch th e u n d e rs ide s o f t h e leave s . Fol l ow wi th a s pray ove r t h e to p to e n s u re f ul l saturati on o f a ll p la n t fo lia g e .

Dry

Allow enough time to dry (3-4 hours) before h ig h in te n s ity lig h t s a re t urn e d on .

NOTE: When sulfur spray dries, a residue will be lef t continuing to work on the plant 's sur face.

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POWDERY MILDEW

IMPERIAL

VEG

*All measurements are mL per gallon Application Frequency Preventative (no pests)

Curative (some pests)

FLOWER

Spray 2x per week

Spray 3x per week

120

• Spray 2 day Infestation

• Off 1 day

(Infested with pests, possible crop loss)

Repeat above for a 9 day total cycle.

120

Spray Procedure

Infestation For powder y mildew infestations we recommend two c o n s e c u t i v e d ay s o f s p r ay i n g f o l l o w e d b y o n e d ay o f f. T h e d ay of f all ow s th e p lant to re s t b e c au s e re p e ate d s p r ay ing c an s tre s s th e p l ant durin g thi s p ro c e s s . I f th e gro w e r n o ti c e s any ad ver s e reac tion like wilting or other phy totoxic reac tions , they s h o ul d add more days of f between the spray routine. This rotation is repeated 3 times over a 9 -day period (the 9th day is a day off ). Our IPM Spray Procedure is designed to prevent and control powder y mildew in your garden.

120

CAUTION: STEP 1 IS VERY IMPORTANT. FULL SATURATION.

Saturate

Climate

Lighting

Only spray when high intensity lights are turned of f to prevent burning.

Spray

Dry

Allow enough time to dr y (3 - 4 hours) before high intensit y light s are turned on.

Fully Saturating the Substrate

IPM Broad Spectrum Insecticide & Fungicide

T h e te c hni qu e o f f ull y s atur atin g th e s ub s tr ate f ir s t , m ake s s ure th e p l ant i s f u l l y hyd r a te d , s o t h a t i t d o e s n o t u p t a ke I P M w h e n applie d . O nce the spraying is complete, allow the plant to dr y down to yo ur n o rm a l p re f e re n c e a n d re s um e yo ur irri g at i o n s c h e d ul e . I f t h e g ro w e r s e e s a ny a d v e r s e re a c t i o n i n t h e p l a nt s , s to p a n d t a ke a d ay o r t w o o f f b e f o re re - a p p l y i n g .

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GUIDE FOR

CANNABIS

This guide provides a practical, step-by-step f ramework for identifying pests and diseases, understanding their life cycles, and selecting control strategies that prioritize prevention, consisten cy, an d crop safety. Inside, you’ll f in d clear explanations of scouting methods, action thresholds, application timing, and decision-making processes designed to reduce crop loss and minimize unnecessary inputs. Built for real-world cultivation environments, this guide helps growers move f rom reactive treatments to proactive plant protection.

IPM Guidebook for Cannabis