Asking the Experts
Carol Bornstein has worked in Botany and Horticulture in Southern California for the past few decades and gave us insight into fighting off plant diseases and pests.
How do you approach pest and disease management in horticulture, and what are some sustainable practices you advocate for?
The IPM Method (Integrated Pest Management) has been used to give a tiered approach to disease management.
- 1. Identify the issue.
- 2. Monitor.
- 3. Implement cultural or organic practices.
- 4. Use organic or low toxicity pesticides or methods.
- 5. Use chemicals or inorganic pesticides
What kind of response do you think our project would receive?
There could potentially be push back because of the general stigma surrounding genetically modified organims and foods. Additionally, traditionally organic farmers may not be as responsive to a synthetic biology method. However, there must be education about the actual science behind it, numerous trials and tests, and a system of checks and balances. Humans have been genetically modifying things for centuries! Just take a look at your household pet or even that soy milk in your fridge.