Joanne Whalen, Extension IPM Specialist; jwhalen@udel.edu
Cole Crops
Continue to sample for cabbage looper, diamondback larvae, beet and fall armyworms and Harlequin bug. Although the pyrethroids will provide control of Harlequin bugs they are not effective on beet armyworm or diamondback. Be sure to scout and select controls options based on the complex of insects present in the field.
Lima Beans
Continue to scout for stink bugs, lygus bugs, soybean looper and corn earworm. If present in the mix, be sure to select a material labeled for soybean loopers.
Peppers
At this time of year, aphids, corn borer, corn earworm, beet armyworm and fall armyworm are all potential problems in peppers. Be sure to select the material that will control the complex of insects present in the field. Check local corn borer and corn earworm moth catches in your area by calling the Crop Pest Hotline (302-831-8851) or our webpage at http://agdev.anr.udel.edu/trap/trap.php .
Snap Beans
At this time, you will need to consider a treatment for both corn borer and corn earworm. You should also watch for beet armyworms and soybean loopers. Sprays are needed at the bud and pin stages on processing beans for worm control. With the diversity of worm pests that may be present in fields, be sure to scout fields and select materials that will control the complex of insects present. You will need to call the Crop Pest Hotline (302-831-8851) or check our website for the most recent trap catches to help decide on the spray interval between the pin stage and harvest for processing snap beans.
http://agdev.anr.udel.edu/trap/trap.php
Spinach
Webworms and beet armyworms moths are active at this time and controls need to be applied when worms first hatch and before they have moved deep into the hearts of the plants. Also, remember that both insects can produce webbing on the plants. Generally, at least 2 applications are needed to achieve control of webworms and beet armyworm
Sweet Corn
The first silk sprays will be needed as soon as ear shanks are visible. Be sure to check both blacklight and pheromone trap catches since the spray schedules can quickly change. Trap catches are generally updated on Tuesday and Friday mornings on our website (http://agdev.anr.udel.edu/trap/trap.php) and the Crop Pest Hotline (302-831-8851). Information on scouting sweet corn and how to use the trap catch information can be found at http://extension.udel.edu/ag/insect-management/insect-trapping-program/action-thresholds-for-silk-stage-sweet-corn/.