What Is IDM? Integrated Disease Management (IDM) requires the use of different control practices to manage plant disease losses. These different management practices are often broken down into 4 categories: Chemical Control. Cultural Practices. Genetic resistance. Biological Control. In the past growers relied heavily on chemical control for disease management. However, with IDM programs growers can incorporate the use of better cultural practices, genetic resistance, and disease forecasting systems, such as Tom-Cast, to help monitor & manage disease. In the past few years the use of organic mulches (cover crops) in vegetable production has gained attention. In tomato production, organic mulches have been shown to suppress early weed establishment, help retain soil moisture, increase soil tilth, increase yield, and may be effective in reducing the spread of some soil borne fungal pathogens. In the future, organic mulched may become a valuable part of IDM programs.