The greatest impact on cotton during the past two weeks has been the lack of rainfall. Drought and intense heat has resulted in the shed of all fruit less than 10 day old bolls from the terminals of plants. This will tend to shorten additional boll production by 2 to 3 weeks and will likely reduce the “top crop” by 200 or so pounds of lint in many fields. Rainfall in the next 7 days would still help fill top bolls that are not mature.
As the result of the above conditions, the insect control season, especially stink bugs, is about over. A few southern green stink bugs can be found in late maturing fields or “swag” areas that remain green in more mature cotton fields. Thresholds for these would be 30-50% internal boll damage on 10-12 day old bolls. A few fields would still profit from stink bug controls.
Tobacco budworms have been extremely low all season but field observations and pheromone traps indicate an increase in the past week or two. Also, bollworm moths are abundant this week in the southern counties of the state.
Soybean Insects- Soybean loopers are at economic levels of 5 or more per row foot in some Gulf Coast area soybeans. Chemical choices (in no particular order) are: Intrepid, Steward, Belt, Tracer and Besiege (Coragen and Karate). Dimilin will give good suppression and long residual. On cotton, the same can be said for Diamond.
Peanut Insects- Scouts reported a mixture of foliage feeding worms in peanuts in Monroe County (S.W. Alabama) about 10 days ago. Many of these were controlled or either they have cycled out by now. This mixture was dominated by bollworm and fall armyworm (grass strain) species. Also in the mix were a few green cloverworms, loopers, and granulate cutworms. Pyrethroids gave nice control of this mix.
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
Friday, August 12, 2011
Bollworm Pressure Remains Extremely High Across the Coastal Plains of Alabama and Georgia
Bollworm pressure has been extremely high across the coastal plains of Alabama and Georgia for the past two weeks or so. Untreated sentinel plots of conventional cotton in southwest Georgia, southeast and southwest Alabama have been stripped of all fruit during this period. Bollworm moths were still active on August 10th at Headland, Alabama. We are relatively certain most of this population has been the bollworm species because sentinel plantings of tobacco in this same area have had few tobacco budworms present to date. As far as I know, no economic levels of escapes have occurred on varieties with Bt technology.
Aphids Reoccurring in Central Alabama Fields
Aphids have reoccurred in some central Alabama fields in the past week. Their infestation pattern on the plant is distinctly different from that of the aphids that normally occur in June and July. These August aphids are occurring down midways in the canopy while the terminals of the plants are aphid free.
Soybean Loopers in Southwest Georgia
Soybean loopers were discovered in cotton in Seminole county, southwest Georgia, last week. There were only about 2-4 per foot of row which is below treatment levels. However, since this is a little early for loopers to appear, they will have to be watched for in coming weeks.
Fleahoppers and Silver Leaf Whiteflies Reported in Southwest Alabama
After two uneventful weeks with little cotton insect news, several points have been learned this week. Consultants from the Mobile area of SW Alabama voiced that the cotton fleahopper has been their most persistent insect this season. This area also has another fleahopper species in the mix, that being the garden fleahopper. Fleahoppers are not difficult to control but populations can rebound very quickly within 5-7 days. Also in this same area, silver leaf whiteflies (SLWF) are infesting a few cotton fields that are planted adjacent to melon fields. Controls were needed for this insect.
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
Aphid numbers continue to build, while most insects numbers remain at moderate levels
Insect conditions have not changed greatly in the past week or so. Aphids have continued to build in more fields. All other insects are low to moderate levels (mostly sub-threshold). These include plant bugs (including a few clouded plant bugs coming into the mix), bollworms, tobacco budworms and stink bugs. Most growers do not have enough of a single species to apply controls for. The two biggest surprises at this point in the season are the low number of bollworms and the low number of stink bugs in most fields. Numerous fields of conventional cotton still have less than 2 bollworms per 100 plants. Boll damage to stink bugs is less than 10% in most fields.
Most of the state has had abundant thunderstorms for several consecutive weeks. Cotton yield prospects have improved greatly and, if conditions continue, numerous fields have two bale plus potential. The two biggest limitations we now have are fields with “skippy” stands and too much late maturing cotton.
Most of the state has had abundant thunderstorms for several consecutive weeks. Cotton yield prospects have improved greatly and, if conditions continue, numerous fields have two bale plus potential. The two biggest limitations we now have are fields with “skippy” stands and too much late maturing cotton.
Monday, July 18, 2011
Later than normal aphid buildup may require more proactive treatments
More fields were reported with aphid infestations last week. Due to this later than normal aphid buildup, growers may want to be more proactive in applying treatments. Stress from aphids, where they are occurring in 2011, is overlapping early to mid boll set. We need to set all the fruit possible in the next two weeks.
Both the brown and Southern stink green stink bug species are present at some level in many fields. Cotton planted in April and up to mid May is already into the third to sixth week of bloom. This means that we should be using a low (10%) internal damaged boll threshold for stink bugs. Growers who chose to treat for aphids should consider stink bugs when selecting their chemicals or tank mixtures.
The flight of corn earworms from corn to cotton usually occurs the week of July 20 in central Alabama. This egg lay may occur up to 7 days earlier in south Alabama and 7 days later in the northern counties. This budworm flight will only be meaningful to those who have planted conventional cotton varieties. Older larvae observed last week were likely from budworm moths that occurred 1 to 2 weeks ago.
Both the brown and Southern stink green stink bug species are present at some level in many fields. Cotton planted in April and up to mid May is already into the third to sixth week of bloom. This means that we should be using a low (10%) internal damaged boll threshold for stink bugs. Growers who chose to treat for aphids should consider stink bugs when selecting their chemicals or tank mixtures.
The flight of corn earworms from corn to cotton usually occurs the week of July 20 in central Alabama. This egg lay may occur up to 7 days earlier in south Alabama and 7 days later in the northern counties. This budworm flight will only be meaningful to those who have planted conventional cotton varieties. Older larvae observed last week were likely from budworm moths that occurred 1 to 2 weeks ago.
Monday, July 11, 2011
Tarnished plant bug, aphid, tobacco budworm and fall armyworm numbers on the increase
Tarnished plant bug adults were found in numerous fields in western Alabama (Lamar County) on Friday (July 8). Pin head square loss was minimal (less than 5%) and very few immature plant bugs were found. This would indicate that adults had moved into cotton fairly recently. However, this is a situation where damage could increase rapidly if controls are not applied.
Several calls were received late last week about increasing aphid populations in some fields. Aphids are late developing this season, which means they also could be late crashing from the fungal disease. This being the case, the peak aphid stress will come during the early boll set window. Growers may find it best to apply aphid controls and prevent plant stress at this stage of maturity.
Heavy tobacco budworm damage has been occurring on sentinel plots of conventional cotton in SW Georgia for the past week. Growers with Bollgard II and Widestrike can sleep well at night knowing that their investment in technology is working to near perfection.
The “grass” strain of the fall armyworm is now damaging pastures and hay crops in several south Alabama counties. This strain will also feed on peanut foliage but will not feed on cotton.
Several calls were received late last week about increasing aphid populations in some fields. Aphids are late developing this season, which means they also could be late crashing from the fungal disease. This being the case, the peak aphid stress will come during the early boll set window. Growers may find it best to apply aphid controls and prevent plant stress at this stage of maturity.
Heavy tobacco budworm damage has been occurring on sentinel plots of conventional cotton in SW Georgia for the past week. Growers with Bollgard II and Widestrike can sleep well at night knowing that their investment in technology is working to near perfection.
The “grass” strain of the fall armyworm is now damaging pastures and hay crops in several south Alabama counties. This strain will also feed on peanut foliage but will not feed on cotton.
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
Tarnished Plant Bugs
High numbers of adult tarnished plant bugs have been reported by two consultants in the Talladega county area this week. In both cases the fieldmen found the plant bugs before square retention began dropping. Numbers as high as 21 adults per 100 row feet were recorded. This is far in excess of what I would consider threshold. Some might question if they should wait until square retention drops before applying controls. I would suggest for controls to be applied immediately since this generation of bugs will not only feed, causing square loss, in the next week—they will also deposit eggs in the plant tissue that will result in a July in-field generation.
A few growers have expressed concern about conserving beneficials but one advantage of having Bollgard II and WideStrike genetics is that you can react to plant bugs when they reach damaging levels. We do not have an insecticide that will kill tarnished plant bugs and conserve beneficials. Any chemical choice that is selective on beneficials would also be selective on plant bugs.
A few growers have expressed concern about conserving beneficials but one advantage of having Bollgard II and WideStrike genetics is that you can react to plant bugs when they reach damaging levels. We do not have an insecticide that will kill tarnished plant bugs and conserve beneficials. Any chemical choice that is selective on beneficials would also be selective on plant bugs.
Monday, June 27, 2011
Tarnished Plant Bugs Threatening Cotton Yields
Tim Reed, Extension Entomologist
June 21, 2011
Control measures for tarnished plant bugs (TPB’s) in the oldest cotton fields in north Alabama began two weeks ago and initial applications continue to be applied to later planted fields. Consultants report TPB pressure to be higher than normal than at this time last year and there is concern that some fields, especially older fields may require two TPB treatments. The cooler, wetter weather we are having this week in parts of Alabama will be favorable to TPB’s. The longer TPB treatments are postponed the more eggs are deposited by adult TPB’s which result in higher numbers of immature TPB’s present in late June and July. One consultant reports that TPB’s can presently be collected in a sweep net at any time of the day in north Alabama cotton fields but they tend to be more abundant on field edges. Some cotton fields in Montgomery county this week are also suffering 20% (Bt cotton threshold) or better pin head square loss due primarily to TPB damage and there could be control measures initiated in this central Alabama county this week. TPB’s are a much more serious pest for conventional cotton producers than for Bt cotton growers since all available chemicals that control adult plant bugs also significantly reduce beneficial insects/spiders. This increases the chances of a severe tobacco budworm infestation in the last half of June. Conventional cotton growers have a difficult time deciding on whether or not to spray for adult plant bugs in mid-June when they know it will be expensive to “fight” worms. Dry weather makes the decision even more difficult. Mississippi entomologists are reporting higher than normal numbers of tobacco budworm moths being collected in pheromone traps and budworm moths are now depositing low numbers of eggs on cotton in Montgomery county. Another concern for all cotton producers is the fear of spider mite populations increasing after TPB applications. Spider mites tend to appear in the same areas each year. Thus far a few north Alabama cotton fields have been treated with bifenthrin to help slow spider mites. Serious spider mite problems will require more expensive chemistry and consultants hope disease will take out the spider mites before more costly chemicals are required.
Thursday, June 23, 2011
Tarnished Plant Bugs Reported in Central Alabama
Three fieldmen from central Alabama (Montgomery, Macon and Lee Coutnies) reported significant movement of adult tarnished plant bugs into cotton this week. Damage, in the form of pinhead square loss, was evident in all three locations. Square retention was below 70% in several fields. This square loss will likely become greater if controls are not applied since the plant bugs are relatively young and have several more days to do damage. Bidrin, Orthene (or generics), or Centric would provide the highest level of control. Pyrethroids would also provide an acceptable level of control. We need to set a high percent of early fruit in fields that have received moisture in the past few days.
Monday, June 13, 2011
Drought Conditions Continue
Despite a few scattered thunderstorms, the drought conditions continue to dominate the row crop situation in much of Alabama. We have cotton that ranges from about 13-15 nodes (planted mid April) to other fields lacking moisture for seed germination. The oldest cotton is about knee high with squares from nodes 6 through 13-15. At this point, potential plant bug damage does not appear to be high. Roadsides and field borders dried down before cotton was old enough to provide food and shade in most fields. Excessive heat during the past 30 days has likely reduced plant bug populations on wild hosts.
Thrips numbers have been low for several weeks following about 4 weeks of high pressure from late April to mid May. The most prominent insects of the past few weeks have been false chinch bugs and white margined burrower bugs.
Most fields are in the stage between being susceptible to thrips and being susceptible to plant bug injury.
Thrips numbers have been low for several weeks following about 4 weeks of high pressure from late April to mid May. The most prominent insects of the past few weeks have been false chinch bugs and white margined burrower bugs.
Most fields are in the stage between being susceptible to thrips and being susceptible to plant bug injury.
Monday, May 23, 2011
As the Southeastern drought continues, thrips pressure is heavy.
Southeastern Drought Continues
With the exception of a few counties in the Montgomery (Alabama) area, the remainder of the southeast remains extremely dry as of May 23rd. Cotton planting has slowed or stopped where irrigation is not present. In central and south Alabama only about 10% of the cotton acreage is under irrigation.
Cotton Insects
Thrips continue to feed heavily on cotton, even up to and through the five true leaf stage. On May 18, more than 10 thrips per plant were recorded on mid-April planted cotton at Prattville, Alabama. Even cotton planted with Temik at 5#/A needed a foliar spray under this level of pressure. All other at-planting treatments were even more severely stunted. We likely have lost at least 10-12 days of maturity in fields with the heaviest thrips injury.
With the exception of a few counties in the Montgomery (Alabama) area, the remainder of the southeast remains extremely dry as of May 23rd. Cotton planting has slowed or stopped where irrigation is not present. In central and south Alabama only about 10% of the cotton acreage is under irrigation.
Cotton Insects
Thrips continue to feed heavily on cotton, even up to and through the five true leaf stage. On May 18, more than 10 thrips per plant were recorded on mid-April planted cotton at Prattville, Alabama. Even cotton planted with Temik at 5#/A needed a foliar spray under this level of pressure. All other at-planting treatments were even more severely stunted. We likely have lost at least 10-12 days of maturity in fields with the heaviest thrips injury.
Monday, May 16, 2011
Cotton Thrips Pressure Heavy, Grasshoppers, and Other Cotton Insects
Cotton Thrips Pressure Heavy
Dry conditions in the coastal plain areas of Alabama and the Southeast have resulted in the migration of tremendous numbers of thrips from wild vegetation and small grains into cotton. All at-planting treatments, in cotton that was planted in April, are being overwhelmed by thrips numbers and injury. Sixty or more thrips can be found on 5 plants within one foot of row. The majority are in the adult stage but immatures are also being found this week.
Due to this continuous migration of thrips, foliar sprays are only holding for 3 to 5 days. However, these sprays are making a big difference from plants that are not receiving foliar applications. Foliar sprays to research plots that received no at-planting treatments have not been adequate in reducing severe thrips injury.
Several different chemicals are being evaluated as foliar sprays for thrips control. At this point, nothing has been as effective as our old standby acephate (Orthene), at 0.2 lb. per acre active.
Grasshoppers
Grasshoppers remain at high levels in the farmscape. Where they are present, controls would be advisable before cotton emerges. Grasshoppers are a threat to stands from the “crook” stage, as the plants emerge, up until about the 5 true leaf stage.
Other Cotton Insects
Ebony bug (Negro bug) immatures have been reported on young cotton in the Talladega County area. Chinch bugs and false chinch bugs have also been reported.
Dry conditions in the coastal plain areas of Alabama and the Southeast have resulted in the migration of tremendous numbers of thrips from wild vegetation and small grains into cotton. All at-planting treatments, in cotton that was planted in April, are being overwhelmed by thrips numbers and injury. Sixty or more thrips can be found on 5 plants within one foot of row. The majority are in the adult stage but immatures are also being found this week.
Due to this continuous migration of thrips, foliar sprays are only holding for 3 to 5 days. However, these sprays are making a big difference from plants that are not receiving foliar applications. Foliar sprays to research plots that received no at-planting treatments have not been adequate in reducing severe thrips injury.
Several different chemicals are being evaluated as foliar sprays for thrips control. At this point, nothing has been as effective as our old standby acephate (Orthene), at 0.2 lb. per acre active.
Grasshoppers
Grasshoppers remain at high levels in the farmscape. Where they are present, controls would be advisable before cotton emerges. Grasshoppers are a threat to stands from the “crook” stage, as the plants emerge, up until about the 5 true leaf stage.
Other Cotton Insects
Ebony bug (Negro bug) immatures have been reported on young cotton in the Talladega County area. Chinch bugs and false chinch bugs have also been reported.
Thursday, April 28, 2011
Grasshoppers
Several reports have been received already about grasshoppers in moderate to high numbers in cotton fields that are in the process of being planted in central Alabama. The presence of grasshoppers is not surprising. But the fact that some fields have predominately adults is surprising. Normally the population is almost all immature at this time of the season. Adults usually occur in late May and June. The significance of the life stage is that adults are much more difficult to control. Acephate (Orthene or generics), chlorpyriphos (Lorsban or generics), Dimilin and others give good control of the immature stage. Much higher labeled rates are required to control adults.
Cotton Planting Progress
Some cotton has been planted in many areas of the state. However, weather extremes have interfered with planting in the past 10 days, too much rainfall in the northern areas and too little in the southern areas. No significant rain fronts have occurred in the Wiregrass (southeastern) area in almost a month.
Cotton planted on April 13 at Prattville, AL, is up to a nice healthy stand with most plants putting out the bud of the first true leaf on April 26.
Cotton planted on April 13 at Prattville, AL, is up to a nice healthy stand with most plants putting out the bud of the first true leaf on April 26.
Cotton Scout School Announced
Three cotton scouting schools will be held in Alabama in early-mid June. They are as follows:
June 8, 2011: Autauga County Extension Office, Autaugaville, AL.
June 9, 2011: Wiregrass Research and Extension Center, Headland, AL.
June 14, 2011: Tennessee Valley Research and Extension Center, Belle Mina, AL.
All sessions will begin at 8:30am and continue until noon. Recertification points will be awarded to those in attendance.
June 8, 2011: Autauga County Extension Office, Autaugaville, AL.
June 9, 2011: Wiregrass Research and Extension Center, Headland, AL.
June 14, 2011: Tennessee Valley Research and Extension Center, Belle Mina, AL.
All sessions will begin at 8:30am and continue until noon. Recertification points will be awarded to those in attendance.
Friday, April 1, 2011
Cotton Insect Management 2011
Points for Discussion:
1. Low Input System - Conventional vs. Technology
2. Evolution of Bt Cotton - Various Genes Involved
How do they compare and what is in the future?
3. Phase Out of Temik
What will be the greatest impact?
4. Stink Bug Research Towards a More Rapid Survey Technique
Factors that influence external vs. internal stink bug boll damage.
5. New Damaging Insects
A. Plataspid (Kudzu) Bug
B. Brown Marmorated Stink Bug
C. Redbanded Stink Bug
A. Plataspid (Kudzu) Bug
Native to Asia
B. Brown Marmorated Stink Bug
First discovered in Pennsylvania in late 1990s
Invades homes for hibernation sites in the Fall
3. Redbanded Stink Bug
Native to South America (Brazil)
1. Low Input System - Conventional vs. Technology
2. Evolution of Bt Cotton - Various Genes Involved
How do they compare and what is in the future?
3. Phase Out of Temik
What will be the greatest impact?
4. Stink Bug Research Towards a More Rapid Survey Technique
Factors that influence external vs. internal stink bug boll damage.
5. New Damaging Insects
A. Plataspid (Kudzu) Bug
B. Brown Marmorated Stink Bug
C. Redbanded Stink Bug
A. Plataspid (Kudzu) Bug
Native to AsiaFirst detected near Athens Georgia in the fall of 2009
Has since spread over much of Georgia, South Carolina and into a few counties in North Carolina and Alabama
Feeds primarily on legumes
Reduced soybean yields by about 20% in 2010 test fields in Georgia
Feeds on stems and leaves
Has high reproductive potential
Can be controlled with pyrethroids and other chemistry
Is a public nuisance problem in fall of the year as they enter homes and buildings to hibernate.
B. Brown Marmorated Stink Bug
First discovered in Pennsylvania in late 1990sNative of Asia
Big problem in specialty crops in mid-Atlantic states (grapes, apples)
Caused 60-90% loss in peaches and apples in 2010
Called Interstate Bug since it spreads by trucks and campers
Has wide host range - feeds on about everything
Have been found in three Alabama counties in late 2010
Has long proboscis so can go through the husk of cornPecans may be huge host in the southeast
Causes more damage per bug on soybeans than green or brown stink bug species
Expect to be economic pest of cotton
Will likely have heavy field edge or border damageInvades homes for hibernation sites in the Fall
3. Redbanded Stink Bug
Native to South America (Brazil)First found in Louisiana in 2000
Observed on soybeans in Baldwin County, Alabama in July 2010
Is sensitive to winter temperatures below 20 degrees F
Has high reproductive potential
Is primarily a legume feeder
Can cause heavy damage to soybeans
Feeds earlier and more aggressively than other stink bug species
More difficult to kill than Southern green stink bug
This concludes Week Five of Cotton Insect Management 2011. The slide show can also be viewed at http://www.aces.edu/anr/crops/documents/CottonInsectManagement2011RonSmith.pdf
Monday, March 14, 2011
Cotton Insect Management, 2011
Points for Discussion:
1. Low Input System - Conventional vs. Technology
2. Evolution of Bt Cotton - Various Genes Involved
How do they compare and what is in the future?
3. Phase Out of Temik
What will be the greatest impact?
4. Stink Bug Research Towards a More Rapid Survey Technique
Factors that influence external vs. internal stink bug boll damage.
5. New Damaging Insects
Plataspid (Kudzu) Bug
Brown Marmorated Stink Bug
Red-Banded Stink Bug
Phase out of Temik:
“EPA and Bayer CropScience, the manufacturer, have reached an agreement to end use of the pesticide aldicarb in the United States.” EPA release October 2010
Remaining uses: During the phase-out, aldicarb use may continue on cotton and peanuts with use-rate reductions and rural well setbacks.
Today, I would like to comment on another benefit of Temik – that being spider mite suppression. In the long haul this may be the most significant loss or impact from the phase out of Temik.
As I have commented to growers in our winter production meetings, there is one advantage of being old and that is you have “seen more history”. In my case I can remember what a major problem spider mites were on cotton in the 1950’s and 60’s. I have seen entire fields in the Tennessee Valley region of Alabama completely defoliated prior to maturity due to spider mite damage. No effective foliar controls were available. Beginning about 1970, when Temik entered the market, spider mites became a relative insignificant pest of cotton for about 30 plus years. Beginning with the movement to seed treatments, mites have become a significant player again. Not in all fields or all years. However, when conditions are conducive, mites can be very economic again. Newer products are now available for foliar control but they do not give extended suppression and most are relatively expensive on a per acre basis. I am not sure that we have anything today that has the mite suppression activity of Temik. Therefore, in the long run, the loss of Temik may leave its greatest impact on mite control. Time will tell.
1. Low Input System - Conventional vs. Technology
2. Evolution of Bt Cotton - Various Genes Involved
How do they compare and what is in the future?
3. Phase Out of Temik
What will be the greatest impact?
4. Stink Bug Research Towards a More Rapid Survey Technique
Factors that influence external vs. internal stink bug boll damage.
5. New Damaging Insects
Plataspid (Kudzu) Bug
Brown Marmorated Stink Bug
Red-Banded Stink Bug
Phase out of Temik:
“EPA and Bayer CropScience, the manufacturer, have reached an agreement to end use of the pesticide aldicarb in the United States.” EPA release October 2010
Remaining uses: During the phase-out, aldicarb use may continue on cotton and peanuts with use-rate reductions and rural well setbacks.
- Registered in 1970
- Production ends by December 31st, 2014
- Distribution and sales end by December 31st, 2016
- Use ends by August 31st, 2018
Impact in cotton production:
- early season insects
- nematodes
- **suppression of spider mites
Update and Comments on Temik Phase-Out:
A two-week temporary restraining order affecting the production of a key intermediate used in the production of Temik brand aldicarb was issued February 10 by a federal judge in West Virginia. This order was issued in response to a lawsuit brought about by 16 residents who reside near the production plant. This restraining order was later extended until March 28. Bottom line is the supply of Temik for the 2011 season will be limited.The point I wish to focus on today is the long term impact of the loss of Temik in cotton insect management. We all recognized the role Temik played in early season insect control, particularly thrips. However, in recent years we have learned how to better utilize seed treatments, supplemented with foliar sprays as needed.
In addition, growers who continued to utilize Temik were often also benefiting from its nematicideal properties. The loss of Temik will leave a major void in nematode management.Today, I would like to comment on another benefit of Temik – that being spider mite suppression. In the long haul this may be the most significant loss or impact from the phase out of Temik.
As I have commented to growers in our winter production meetings, there is one advantage of being old and that is you have “seen more history”. In my case I can remember what a major problem spider mites were on cotton in the 1950’s and 60’s. I have seen entire fields in the Tennessee Valley region of Alabama completely defoliated prior to maturity due to spider mite damage. No effective foliar controls were available. Beginning about 1970, when Temik entered the market, spider mites became a relative insignificant pest of cotton for about 30 plus years. Beginning with the movement to seed treatments, mites have become a significant player again. Not in all fields or all years. However, when conditions are conducive, mites can be very economic again. Newer products are now available for foliar control but they do not give extended suppression and most are relatively expensive on a per acre basis. I am not sure that we have anything today that has the mite suppression activity of Temik. Therefore, in the long run, the loss of Temik may leave its greatest impact on mite control. Time will tell.
Thursday, March 3, 2011
Cotton Insect Management, 2011
Points for Discussion:
1. Low Input System - Conventional vs. Technology
2. Evolution of Bt Cotton - Various Genes Involved
How do they compare and what is in the future?
3. Phase Out of Temik
What will be the greatest impact?
4. Stink Bug Research Towards a More Rapid Survey Technique
Factors that influence external vs. internal stink bug boll damage.
5. New Damaging Insects
Plataspid (Kudzu) Bug
Brown Marmorated Stink Bug
Red-Banded Stink Bug
2. Evolution of Bt Cotton - Genes Involved
How do they compare and what is in the future?
1996 Bollgard Cry1Ac
2003 Bollgard II Cry1Ac + Cry2Ab
2005 Widestrike Cry1Ac + Cry1F
In Pipeline
1. Low Input System - Conventional vs. Technology
2. Evolution of Bt Cotton - Various Genes Involved
How do they compare and what is in the future?
3. Phase Out of Temik
What will be the greatest impact?
4. Stink Bug Research Towards a More Rapid Survey Technique
Factors that influence external vs. internal stink bug boll damage.
5. New Damaging Insects
Plataspid (Kudzu) Bug
Brown Marmorated Stink Bug
Red-Banded Stink Bug
2. Evolution of Bt Cotton - Genes Involved
How do they compare and what is in the future?
2003 Bollgard II Cry1Ac + Cry2Ab
2005 Widestrike Cry1Ac + Cry1F
In Pipeline
2012? Bayer Twin Link/ Glytol Cry1Ab + Cry2Ae
2012-13? Widestrike Advanced Vip3A + Cry1Ac + Cry1F
2013-14? Bollgard III Vip3A + Cry1Ac + Cry2Ab
Importance of Adding Genes:
1. To provide improved effectiveness across the various caterpillar species. Different genes have strengths on certain species.
2. To manage resistance and preserve the technology.
Have you ever considered the significance if resistance should occur to the Bt gene(s)? We were living on the edge with a single gene.
Friday, February 25, 2011
Cotton Insect Management, 2011
Points for Discussion in Coming Weeks:
1. Low Input System - Conventional vs. Technology
2. Evolution of Bt Cotton - Various Genes Involved. How do they compare and what is in the future?
3. Phase Out of Temik. What will be the greatest impact?
4. Stink Bug Research Towards a More Rapid Survey Technique. Factors that influence external vs. internal stink bug boll damage.
5. New Damaging Insects: Plataspid (Kudzu) Bug, Brown Marmorated Stink Bug, Red-Banded Stink Bug
Low Input System - Conventional vs. Technology
Results from 2010 Season and Conclusions:
Cotton Systems Trial
Wiregrass Research and Extension Center
Headland, AL
Cotton Systems Trial
Prattville Agricultural Research Unit
Prattville, AL
Cotton Systems Trial
E. V. Smith Research and Extension Center
Shorter, AL
Based on the results of these trials, this investigator would conclude that conventional cotton can be grown in Alabama.
However, the economics would vary greatly depending on the weather, severity of the insect season and location.
Furthermore, it would require much expertise in monitoring insect populations and selection of the appropriate chemistry for the target insect species present.
Bottom Line: 2011 may not be the season to cut input costs -- but instead to focus on maximizing yield.
1. Low Input System - Conventional vs. Technology
2. Evolution of Bt Cotton - Various Genes Involved. How do they compare and what is in the future?
3. Phase Out of Temik. What will be the greatest impact?
4. Stink Bug Research Towards a More Rapid Survey Technique. Factors that influence external vs. internal stink bug boll damage.
5. New Damaging Insects: Plataspid (Kudzu) Bug, Brown Marmorated Stink Bug, Red-Banded Stink Bug
Low Input System - Conventional vs. Technology
Results from 2010 Season and Conclusions:
Cotton Systems Trial
Wiregrass Research and Extension Center
Headland, AL
Variety/ Technology | Seed Cost | Technology Cost | Weed Control Cost | Foliar Insect Control Cost* | Yield # Seed Cotton/ac | Cost/lb Seed Cotton |
CT 210 | $10.00 | - | $37.50 | $16.00 | 2,813 | $0.023 |
PHY 440W | $21.97 | $18.00 | $37.50 | $16.00 | 2,789 | $0.034 |
DP 174RF | $23.89 | $36.81 | $31.00 | $16.00 | 2,916 | $0.037 |
DP 121RF | $23.89 | $36.81 | $31.00 | $16.00 | 2,724 | $0.040 |
DP 0912B2RF | $24.90 | $70.00 | $31.00 | $16.00 | 3,230 | $0.044 |
PHY 375 WRF | $23.50 | $65.00 | $31.00 | $16.00 | 3,140 | $0.043 |
ST 5288B2RF | $24.90 | $70.00 | $31.00 | $16.00 | 3,329 | $0.043 |
PHY 485 WRF | $23.50 | $65.00 | $31.00 | $16.00 | 3,110 | $0.044 |
DP 1034 B2RF | $24.90 | $70.00 | $31.00 | $16.00 | 3,041 | $0.047 |
DP 1048 B2RF | $24.90 | $70.00 | $31.00 | $16.00 | 2,784 | $0.051 |
PHY 565 WRF | $23.50 | $65.00 | $31.00 | $16.00 | 2,990 | $0.045 |
DP 0949 B2RF | $24.90 | $70.00 | $31.00 | $16.00 | 2,940 | $0.048 |
50B2RF | $24.90 | $70.00 | $31.00 | $16.00 | 2,633 | $0.054 |
Cotton Systems Trial
Prattville Agricultural Research Unit
Prattville, AL
Variety / Technology | Seed Cost | Technology Cost | Weed Control Cost | Foliar Insect Control Cost* | Yield # Seed Cotton/ac | Cost/lb Seed Cotton |
DP 491 UT | $10.00 | - | $43.60 | $8.00 | 1,710 | $0.036 |
DP 491 Sprayed | $10.00 | - | $43.60 | $16.00 | 1,896 | $0.037 |
DP 174R UT | $23.89 | $36.81 | $32.50 | $8.00 | 2,628 | $0.038 |
DP 174R Sprayed | $23.89 | $36.81 | $32.50 | $16.00 | 2,761 | $0.040 |
PHY 440W UT | $21.97 | $17.99 | $43.60 | $8.00 | 2,301 | $0.040 |
PHY 440W Sprayed | $21.97 | $17.99 | $43.60 | $16.00 | 2,339 | $0.043 |
DP 1050B2RF UT | $24.90 | $70.00 | $32.50 | $8.00 | 2,587 | $0.052 |
DP 1050B2RF Sprayed | $24.90 | $70.00 | $32.50 | $16.00 | 2,501 | $0.057 |
ST 5288 B2RF UT | $24.90 | $70.00 | $32.50 | $8.00 | 2,232 | $0.061 |
ST 5288 B2RF Sprayed | $24.90 | $70.00 | $32.50 | $16.00 | 2,150 | $0.067 |
PHY 375 WRF UT | $23.50 | $65.00 | $32.50 | $8.00 | 2,738 | $0.047 |
PHY 375 WRF Sprayed | $23.50 | $65.00 | $32.50 | $16.00 | 2,503 | $0.055 |
*Includes Application | ||||||
Cotton Systems Trial
E. V. Smith Research and Extension Center
Shorter, AL
Variety/ Technology | Seed Cost | Technology Cost | Weed Control Cost | Foliar Insect Control Cost* | Yield # Seed Cotton/ac | Cost/lb Seed Cotton |
DP 1050B2RF | $24.90 | $70.00 | $43.50 | $8.00 | 1,850 | $0.08 |
DP 174RF | $23.89 | $36.81 | $43.50 | $8.00 | 1,990 | $0.06 |
PHY 440W | $28.22 | $21.11 | $43.50 | $8.00 | 2,067 | $0.05 |
DP 491 | $10.00 | − | $43.50 | $8.00 | 1,854 | $0.07 |
*Includes Application | ||||||
Variety/ Technology | Seed Cost | Technology Cost | Weed Control Cost | Foliar Insect Control Cost* | Yield # Seed Cotton/ac | Cost/lb Seed Cotton |
ST 5288B2RF | $24.90 | $70.00 | $12.00 | $18.00 | 1,922 | $0.06 |
DP 1050B2RF | $24.90 | $70.00 | $12.00 | $18.00 | 2,122 | $0.06 |
DP 0949B2RF | $24.90 | $70.00 | $12.00 | $18.00 | 2,280 | $0.05 |
PHY 565 WRF | $23.50 | $65.00 | $12.00 | $18.00 | 2,167 | $0.06 |
DP 174 RF | $23.89 | $36.81 | $12.00 | $61.00 | 1,963 | $0.07 |
PHY 440 W | $21.97 | $17.99 | $21.00 | $61.00 | 2,018 | $0.04 |
CT 210 | $20.00 | − | $21.00 | $61.00 | 2,155 | $0.05 |
*Includes Application | ||||||
However, the economics would vary greatly depending on the weather, severity of the insect season and location.
Furthermore, it would require much expertise in monitoring insect populations and selection of the appropriate chemistry for the target insect species present.
Bottom Line: 2011 may not be the season to cut input costs -- but instead to focus on maximizing yield.