New Options in Pest Control

No Organophosphate Programs:

It is likely that growers will become more and more interested in implementing CM and LR control programs that do not rely on OP insecticides. In Fig. 5, we show a NO-OP program that should work as well as the OP-based program (Fig. 3) or the OP substitution program (Fig. 4). The program eliminates use of Lorsban, relying on oil only in the prebloom period for control of SJS and suppression of ERM and aphids. LR control is achieved in the postbloom period with the application of Rimon or Esteem at petal fall. Both of these products also provide suppression of CM because of their ovicidal activity. Assail or Calypso is used against larvae of the first CM generation. Intrepid, which also provides LR control, is used against the second CM generation. MD is recommended for this kind of program, especially in the first year or two of a transition from an OP-based program. The cost of the program in Fig. 5 is approximately $250/acre, including the expense for a half-rate of pheromone.

One potential problem of removing Lorsban from the insect pest control program could be with Campylomma. We know from experience that residues on bark from delayed-dormant applications of Lorsban suppress populations of Campylomma. In some orchards this level of suppression has probably been sufficient to eliminate the need for additional controls for this pest. Therefore, the elimination of Lorsban in the prebloom period could increase the probability that additional controls for Campylomma would be needed.

Fig. 5

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