Scouting Tips for Ornamentals

Effective pest management begins with effective scouting. This course provides practical guidance on developing structured scouting routines for ornamental landscapes, nursery production, and greenhouse environments.

Participants will learn how to improve early pest detection, accurately diagnose issues, and make informed management decisions before problems escalate. Emphasis is placed on systematic inspection techniques, recognizing patterns of pest activity, and distinguishing between insect, disease, and abiotic stress symptoms.

Topics covered include:

• Establishing consistent scouting routes and schedules
• Identifying key indicator plants and high-risk areas
• Recognizing early signs of insect and disease activity
• Distinguishing pest damage from nutrient or environmental disorders
• Proper documentation and recordkeeping practices
• Using scouting data to support action thresholds and treatment decisions
• Integrating scouting into a broader IPM program

This course emphasizes prevention-first thinking and data-driven decision-making to reduce unnecessary applications, improve treatment timing, and strengthen overall ornamental pest management programs.

Course Delivery & Access

This training is delivered through our secure online learning management system (LMS). Upon registration, participants will receive login instructions via email with access to the course portal.

Your registration includes seven (7) consecutive days of access beginning on the date your login credentials are issued. During this period, you may complete the instructional modules at your own pace.

All instructional content and the required assessment must be completed within the seven-day access window. Access will automatically expire at the end of the access period.

Completion records are maintained within the LMS to ensure structured delivery and documentation of participation.