This seminar will present an overview of the research efforts conducted by the applied insect ecology lab at Virginia Tech. Nursery crops and turfgrass are used as study cases to better understand pest biology and ecology. During this seminar, the audience will learn more about pest phenology in-field monitoring, landscape ecology, alternative control tactics such as mating disruption, remote sensing and releasing beneficial insects with drones. The ultimate goal of conducting this research is to provide science-based solutions and improve pest management programs among affected stakeholders.