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Field and Forage Crops |
Both tobacco budworms and hornworms have been active for the past week or so. The budworms, of course, are expected, but the size of the hornworm population is a bit unusual. Remember that the threshold for budworms is 10 percent of plants with a budworm present. The threshold for hornworms is one or more hornworms (1 inch or longer in length) for each 10 plants checked. There is no formal threshold established for the combination of these two pests. However, if you are over half way to the threshold of both pests individually, it may be best to treat.
We have had more than average numbers of cutworm reports this year. Most of these problems are now over, but we have received a couple of reports from the Piedmont over the last week.
Aphids have not yet occurred in high numbers in most locations; dry weather does not favor these pests. With recent rainfall, aphids may begin to build in number more quickly, but future weather conditions are the key. The treatment threshold is 10 percent of plants infested (over 50 aphids on the most infested leaf).
With the hot, dry weather of the early season, we have seen some flecking and perhaps some stunting where systematic insecticides were used. Fortunately, tobacco seems to quickly grow out of this effect in most cases.
Employment and program opportunities are offered to all people regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, age or disability. North Carolina State University, North Carolina A&T State University, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and local governments cooperating.
Last modified on June 7, 2004 by Stephen J. Toth, Jr.