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The first and possibly most important step in any IPM program is monitoring. For biological control to be successful it is critical to begin releases before pests reach damaging levels. We recommend at least weekly leaf scouting to search for all stages of insect, mite and disease pests. We also suggest the use of yellow sticky cards (use blue if thrips are your primary target pests, although thrips are also attracted to yellow) to help spot adult aphids, whitefly, psyllids, thrips and other pests. These cards will catch these pests long before you will usually see them. Use one 3x5 card per 1000 sq. ft., or less cards if you use larger cards. Sticky tapes strung just above the crop can also be used to trap pests. This helps to reduce the number of adults and can make a tremendous difference on the following generations of pests.  The easiest way is to use the Hopper-Finder product that comes coated on both sides with a non drying adhesive.  This product is available in both 6 inch and 12 inch widths, in either yellow or blue. Hang one piece of tape ju st above the top of each row of crop and adjust height as the crop grows.