The Thrips Infestation Predictor Model for Cotton (link) is a useful tool to use to help understand which planting dates or planting windows are at the highest risk of thrips injury. This model predicts how thrips movement and cotton growth will line up based on recent and predicted weather patterns. The model also provides some context with the last 5 years for thrips pressure at your given planting date. We started running the model to get an idea of what thrips pressure is predicted as we move into the early planting window.
South Alabama
We ran the model in Henry and Escambia counties and cotton
planted until about the first week of May is at the highest risk of thrips
injury.
Central Alabama
The model showed in Autauga, Lee, Talladega and Fayette counties
that cotton planted after about May 10th is at the highest risk
of thrips injury.
North Alabama
North Alabama (Cherokee and Limestone counties) were similar
to central Alabama with cotton planted after about May 10th being
at the highest risk of thrips injury.
To look at the models we ran, you can click here.
Keep in mind that the model is fluid and things can change
based on an unexpected rain event (or a missed expected rain). You should
update the model every couple days before and after planting to make sure you
are seeing the most accurate version. Remember that the model is used to understand
risk of thrips injury and which fields may need a supplemental foliar
application.
If we can be of any help, please don’t hesitate to reach out
and let us know (Scott Graham: 662-809-3368; Ron Smith: 334-332-9501). To stay
up-to-date on the Alabama insect situation, subscribe to the Alabama Cotton
Shorts Newsletter,
Alabama Crops Report Newsletter,
and the Syngenta Pest Patrol Hotline.
