Welcome to the Groves Lab!
Our research and extension group is located in the Department of Entomology at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Our program is centered on the ecology and management of insects of commercial and fresh market vegetable crops. Specifically the focus of our research and extension program is:
- Research to meet the current and emerging challenges of Wisconsin’s commercial and fresh market vegetable growers and producers.
- Extension education to deliver research-based information to the stakeholders and the public.
- Improving sustainability of commercial and fresh market vegetable production in Wisconsin through research-based IPM practices.
What is vegetable entomology?
Traditional vegetable crop entomology programs focus on pests and pest control. As the concept of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) develops, new ways of understanding the agricultural landscape have become important. Part of this new understanding is taking into consideration that the agricultural field is an ecosystem, despite the intensive manipulation that goes into most farm land. It is important to remember that pollinators, a key group of insects necessary for most vegetable productivity, are vulnerable to many sprayed insecticides. Similarly, natural enemies (natural predators of common insect pests) are important allies to have in the field, and they too are sensitive to insecticides. By pursuing an IPM strategy, one that takes into account how many insects interact in the agricultural ecosystem, it is possible to effectively manage pests while reducing unwanted consequences.
Vegetable Crop Update Newsletter
The Vegetable Crop Update newsletter is the best way to get the latest information about pest and disease management in vegetable crop production in Wisconsin. This newsletter is distributed weekly on Sundays during the growing season. You can find past issues and sign up at the UW Vegetable Pathology website.
Information & Resources
