Tuholaishallinta

Tuholaishallinta is a systematic approach to preventing and reducing damage caused by pests, including insects, weeds, fungi, rodents and other organisms, in agriculture, forestry, urban environments, storage and public health. The goal is to protect crops, structures and human and animal health while minimizing economic loss and environmental impact.

A core principle is Integrated Pest Management (IPM), which emphasizes prevention, monitoring, and selective control measures. Prevention includes sanitation, crop rotation, resistant varieties, proper storage practices and habitat management. Monitoring involves regular scouting, surveillance tools such as traps and monitoring devices, and the use of thresholds to decide when action is warranted. Decision making relies on risk assessment to choose methods with the lowest overall risk and cost.

Control methods are divided into cultural, physical, biological and chemical options. Cultural and mechanical methods reduce pest pressure; biological methods use natural enemies or competing organisms; chemical methods (pesticides) are used when needed, with emphasis on targeting, correct timing, and adherence to product labels to limit residues and resistance development. Resistance management and minimizing non-target effects are important considerations.

In Finland and the EU, tuholaishallinta is supported by regulatory frameworks, professional guidance and monitoring programs. Authorities such as Ruokavirasto (Finnish Food Authority) oversee the safety and approved use of plant protection products, while advisors help implement IPM principles for farms, gardens and industry.

The approach prioritizes sustainability, aiming to reduce chemical use, protect pollinators and biodiversity, and ensure food safety and public health.