What is the primary goal of pest management in ornamental settings?

The primary goal of pest management in ornamental settings is to reduce pest populations to prevent damage. This approach focuses on maintaining the health and aesthetics of ornamental plants while minimizing the impact of pests that can lead to stress or harm to the plants. By effectively managing pest populations, one can ensure that the plants thrive, which is essential for their visual appeal and ecological health.

This goal aligns with an integrated pest management (IPM) philosophy, which emphasizes the use of a variety of control methods, including cultural practices, biological controls, and chemical treatments when necessary, all aimed at keeping pest populations below thresholds that would cause economic or aesthetic damage. Rather than relying heavily on chemical treatments, the objective is to create a balanced ecosystem where pests are monitored and controlled in a sustainable manner.