NOTES: For the disease control products listed below, one product trade name and formulation is provided for each active ingredient (common name) as an example of rates, preharvest interval (PHI), restricted entry interval (REI), and special instructions. In many cases, there are other products available with the same active ingredient. Please see Table 26 and Fungicides and Bactericides Alphabetically Listed by Trade Name for more information on products with the same active ingredients.

The symbol ^OG indicates a product is listed by the Organic Materials Review Institute (OMRI) as approved for use in organic production. See Organic Certification section for more details.

Crown Rot (Fusarium species)

Vigorously growing plants are less susceptible to crown rot. Buy top quality crowns. Use new land or land where asparagus has not been grown for 10 years. Use tolerant varieties.

Rust (Puccinia asparagi)

Rust disease attacks fern foliage and can spread rapidly, affecting production in subsequent years. Fern residues should be removed and destroyed prior to spear emergence in the spring. Control volunteer asparagus plants that might be infected. Resistant cultivars are not available. Apply fungicides after spear harvest is complete.

• Bacillus amyloliquefaciens strain D747 (DoubleNickel 55^OG): 0.25 to 3.0 lb/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Group BM02. Disease suppression only. For improved control, mix or rotate with a chemical fungicide.
• chlorothalonil (Bravo Weather Stik): 2.0 to 4.0 pt/A; PHI 190d, REI 12h, Group M05. Do not apply within 190 days of the harvest of spears in the following season.
• copper (Badge SC): 1.0 to 2.5 pt./A; PHI 0d, REI 48h, Group M01. For suppression. Tank mix with other products registered for rust control. Addition of sticker/spreader recommended.
• laminarim (Vacciplant): 14.0 to 22.0 fl oz/A; PHI od, REI 4h, Group P04. See label for application methods and restrictions. 
• mancozeb (Dithane F45): 2.0 qt/A; PHI 180d, REI 24h, Group M03. Begin applications after spears have been harvested.
• mancozeb plus azoxystrobin (Dexter Max): 2.0 to 2.2 lb./A; PHI 180d, REI 24h, Group M03 &11. Begin applications after spears have been harvested. Alternate with fungicides outside of Group 11.
• myclobutanil (Rally 40 WSP): 5.0 oz/A; PHI 180d, REI 24h, Group 3. Begin applications after spears have been harvested. Observe a 30-day plant-back interval between the last application and planting new crops at the treatment site.
• sulfur (Microthiol Disperss^OG): 10.0 to 30.0 lb/A; PHI 0d, REI 24h, Group M02. Apply to ferns after cutting.
• tebuconazole (Monsoon): 4.0 to 6.0 fl oz/A; PHI 180d, REI 12h, Group 3. Begin applications after spears have been harvested. Do not make more than 3 foliar applications per year.
• thyme oil (Guarda): See label for rate; PHI 0h, REI 0h, Group NC. See label for application methods and rates. Ensure thorough coverage to the point of runoff ( 15-25 gallons per acre).

NOTES: For the insecticides listed below, one product trade name and formulation is provided for each active ingredient (AI) as an example of rates, preharvest interval (PHI), restricted entry interval (REI), and special instructions. In many cases, there are other products available with the same AI. Please see Table 27 and Insecticides Alphabetically Listed by Trade Name for more information on these insecticides.

The symbol * indicates a product is a restricted use pesticide. See Pesticide Safety for more details.

The symbol ^OG indicates a product is listed by the Organic Materials Review Institute (OMRI) as approved for use in organic production. See Organic Certification section for more details.

Asparagus Aphids (Brachycorynella asparagi)

Asparagus aphids are small (1.6-2 mm), oval, green to gray aphids that may be covered in a waxy secretion. They overwinter as eggs on asparagus residue in the field. Eggs hatch in spring and nymphs and adults feed on spears, then on ferns. During the summer, wingless females produce live young (nymphs) which develop into reproductive females in 8-10 days. Populations can build up rapidly especially in hot, dry weather. Aphids feed on new growth and cause shortening of internodes, rosetting, or ‘witches broom’ appearance of the foliage. High aphid populations reduce root growth and plant vigor and may kill seedlings. Younger plantings are most vulnerable, especially 2- or 3-year-old plantings that are not being harvested. Cold winters and aphid infestation have a synergistic effect on plant health, greater than either factor alone. Asparagus aphids can also vector viruses, including asparagus virus I and II (AV-I and AV-II) and tobacco streak virus (TSV). During harvest, monitor any plantings that are not being harvested. After harvest, scout ferns for signs of feeding injury and aphid colonies, especially in the basal regions of the plant. Cultural controls include harvesting spears in spring, because only volunteer plants and young plantings that are not harvested will allow aphids to survive and multiply. Remove dead ferns during the fall or winter, and control between-row volunteers through spring tillage or herbicides. Natural biocontrol is provided by insect predators such as lady beetles, lacewings, predatory midges, and syrphid fly larvae, by the parasitic braconid wasp, Diaeretiella rapea, and by a fungal pathogen that is more active in humid climates. Treat ferns when populations are low, if 5% of ferns show injury. Conserve beneficials by using a selective product. Scout again in 5-7 days to determine if further treatment is needed.

• acetamiprid (Assail 30SG): 2.5 to 5.3 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: M, Group 4A.
• dimethoate (Dimethoate 4EC): 1 pt/A; PHI 180d, REI 48h, Bee: H, Group 1B. Apply after last harvest. Systemic.
• insecticidal soap (M-Pede^OG): 1.25 to 2.5 oz/gal water; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: L. Spray to wet all infested plant surfaces. Apply with companion insecticide.
• malathion (Malathion 57EC): 1.5 to 2 pt/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 1B.
• petroleum oil (Suffoil X^OG): 1 to 2 gal/100 gal water; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: L. Apply as needed. 
• pymetrozine (Fulfill): 2.75 oz/A; PHI 170d, REI 12h, Bee: L, Group 9B. Apply to ferns after harvest, and before populations build to damaging levels. Allow a minimum of 30 days between applications.
• pyrethrin (PyGanic EC5.0^OG): 4.5 to 17 oz/A; 0.25 to 0.50 oz/gal; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: M, Group 3A.

Asparagus Miner (Opbiomyia simplex)

This fly was introduced to North America from Europe and is present wherever asparagus is grown. It feeds only on asparagus, and is found primarily on older stalks bearing ferns. The adult fly is shiny black, 3-4 mm long, with clear wings. Larvae are whitish, legless, tapered at both ends, with black mouth hooks at one end. Pupation takes place in the larval mine on the stalk. Overwintering puparia are usually in mines near or below ground level. There are 2 generations per year. Adults emerge in May and lay eggs underneath the epidermis of stems, usually near the base of the plant. Larvae feed in June, pupate inside their larval mines, and a second generation of adults emerges and lays eggs in late July or early August. Second generation larvae feed through August and pupate in the fall, overwintering until the following spring. Larvae feed just beneath the surface of the stem, burrowing upwards or downwards and forming mines. While direct feeding damage can girdle stems if there are several mines per stalk, the effect of miners on yield is usually minimal and the injury is largely cosmetic. The most important injury from asparagus miner is due to its association with Fusarium spp. and its ability to vector this pathogen into the plant through feeding wounds. Cultural practices to reduce damage from asparagus miner include removing overwintering stalks and destroying wild asparagus in the vicinity of commercial plantings. Select varieties that are resistant to Fusarium to reduce disease.

• acetamiprid (Assail 30SG): 5.3 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: M, Group 4A. Suppression only.

Cutworms

Caterpillars hide under the soil surface adjacent to the plant stem during the day and feed after dark. Crooks (misshaped spears) are often caused by cutworms injuring tips at or just below the soil surface or feeding on the sides of young spears. For best results, make pesticide applications between midnight and dawn while cutworms are feeding above ground. Synthetic pyrethroids (group 3A) may work best during cool weather in May. See cutworms in the Pepper and Tomato (Outdoor) sections for more information on the black and variegated cutworms.

• carbaryl (Sevin XLR PLUS): 1 qt/A prior to fern growth, 2 qt/A on ferns; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 1A.
• Chromobacterium subtsugae strain PRAA4-1 (Grandevo^OG): 2 to 3 lb/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: M. Group UN.
• methomyl (Lannate* LV): 1.5 to 3 pt/A, 1.5 pt/A for variegated cutworm; PHI 1d, REI 48h, Bee: H, Group 1A.
• permethrin (Pounce* 25WP): 3.2 to 6.4 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A.
• spinosad (Seduce^OG): 20 to 44 lb/A or 0.5 to 1 lb/1000 sq ft; PHI 60d, REI 4h, Bee: M, Group 5. Scatter bait on soil around plants. For postharvest protection of ferns only.

Asparagus Beetles and Japanese Beetle

The common asparagus beetle (Crioceris duodecimpunctata) and spotted asparagus beetle (Crioceris asparagi) overwinter as adults in protected areas along fields, feed and lay eggs in the crop, pupate in the soil, and have 2 or sometimes 3 generations per year. Both species are less than 3/8" long. The common asparagus beetle (CAB) has a bluish-black body with cream-colored, square or rectangular spots, while the spotted asparagus beetle (SAB) is tan to orange with 12 round, black spots. Eggs of CAB are dark brown, laid standing on end in rows along the spears, with 3-10 in each cluster. During harvest, adult feeding by CAB on spears or the presence of CAB eggs can render the crop unmarketable. CAB larvae have 4 instars and are wrinkled, plump, hump-backed, and dull gray or brown with black head and legs. CAB larvae may cause severe defoliation of ferns and decline of the planting. SAB larvae are yellow or orange and feed only on berries. During harvest, scout for adults and eggs on sunny afternoons. Treat spears if >10% of the plants are infested with beetles or 1-2% have eggs or damage. Scout ferns for all life stages of both pests and treat if 50-75% are infested. If possible, spot spray along edges of planting where overwintering adults colonize the field and/or band insecticide over the row to help conserve natural enemies. Use selective insecticides on ferns. During harvest, snap or cut spears close to the soil surface daily and eliminate volunteer plants or treat them with an insecticide to use them as a trap crop. Disk old ferns lightly in the fall and clean areas around planting of debris to reduce overwintering populations. Eliminating female plants, and thus berries, can reduce or eliminate SAB populations. Japanese beetles may feed in ferns in mid-summer.

• acetamiprid (Assail 30SG): 2.5 to 5.3 oz/A for asparagus beetle, 5.3 oz/A for Japanese beetle; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: M, Group 4A.
• carbaryl (Sevin XLR PLUS): 1 qt/A prior to fern growth, 2 qt/A on ferns; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 1A.
• dimethoate (Dimethoate 4EC): 1 pt/A; PHI 180d, REI 48h, Bee: H, Group 1B. Asparagus beetle only. Apply after last harvest.
• kaolin (Surround WP^OG): 12.5 to 25 lb/A or 25 to 50 lbs/100 gal water; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: L. Suppression and repellence only. Product residue may need to be washed off if applied to spears during harvest. Generally compatible as a tank mix with other insecticides.
• malathion (Malathion 57EC): 1.5 to 2 pt/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 1B.
• methomyl (Lannate* LV): 1.5 to 3 pt/A; PHI 1d, REI 48h, Bee: H, Group 1A. Asparagus beetle only.
• permethrin (Pounce* 25WP): 3.2 to 6.4 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A. For Japanese beetle control, use high rate.
• petroleum oil (Suffoil X^OG): 1 to 2 gal/100 gal water; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: L. For beetle larvae only. Apply as needed.
• pyrethrin (PyGanic EC5.0^OG): 4.5 to 17 oz/A, 0.25 to 0.50 oz/gal; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: M, Group 3A.
• spinetoram (Radiant SC): 4 to 8 oz/A; PHI 60h, REI 4h, Bee: M, Group 5. Postharvest protection of ferns from asparagus beetle only.
• spinosad (Entrust SC^OG): 4 to 6 oz/A; PHI 60d, REI 4h, Bee: M, Group 5. Postharvest protection of ferns from asparagus beetle only.

NOTES: For the herbicides listed below, one product trade name and formulation is provided for each active ingredient as an example of rates, preharvest interval (PHI), restricted entry interval (REI), resistance management group number, and special instructions. In many cases, there are other products available with the same active ingredient. However, not all products with the same active ingredient are registered for use in a crop. Always check the product label to be sure that the crop is listed before using. 

Grass Weed Control - New plantings and established beds

• clethodim (Select Max): PHI 1d, REI 24h, Group 1. Apply 9-16 oz/A per application, multiple applications are allowed, a minimum of 14 days apart. Do not exceed 64 oz/A per year. Apply to actively growing grasses. Add 1 qt nonionic surfactant per 100 gal of spray (0.25% v:v). Can also be applied as a spot-spray by mixing 1/3-2/3% (0.44-0.85 oz/gal) Select Max and 0.25% v:v nonionic surfactant (0.33 oz/gal). Spray to wet, but do not allow runoff of spray solution.
• fluazifop (Fusilade DX): PHI 1yr for high max rate or 1d for low max rate, REI 12h, Group 1. Apply 16-24 oz/A per application, multiple applications are allowed, a minimum of 14 days apart. Do not exceed 48 oz/A per year if harvesting this year or 72 oz/A per year if harvesting next year. Apply to actively growing grasses. Add either crop oil concentrate (0.5-1%, 0.5-1 gal per 100 gal of spray) or nonionic surfactant (0.25-0.5%, 1-2 qts per 100 gal of spray).
• sethoxydim (Poast): PHI 1d, REI 12h, Group 1. Apply up to 2.5 pt/A per application, multiple applications are allowed, a minimum of 14 days between applications. Do not exceed 5 pt/A per year. Apply to actively growing grasses. Use with crop oil concentrate (2 pt/A) or methylated seed oil (1.5 pt/A). Note that crop oil can cause injury under hot and humid conditions. Can also be used as a spot-spray by mixing 1-1.5% (1.3-1.9 oz/gal) Poast and 1% v:v crop oil concentrate (1.3 oz/gal). Spray to wet, but do not allow runoff of spray solution.

New Plantings

• diquat (Reglone): PHI 1yr, REI 24h, Group 22. Apply 1.5-2 pt/A per application. Only use during site preparation prior to planting. Spray weeds 1-6” tall; retreatment may be necessary to control established weeds. Apply in a minimum of 15 gal/A of spray. Do not allow spray to contact crop stems, foliage, or fruit.
• glyphosate (Roundup Power Max): PHI 14d, REI 4h, Group 9. Apply 10 oz to 3.1 qts/A per application. Do not exceed 5 qts/A per year. Rate depends on target weeds, see label for rate selection. Avoid contact with any part of the asparagus or crop death could occur. May apply during fallow intervals, prior to crop planting, at planting, before crop has emerged, or immediately after cutting before spears have emerged.
• linuron (Lorox DF): PHI 1d, REI 24h or 8d, Group 5. For pre- and postemergence control of many annual broadleaf weeds. For preemergence, apply 1-4 lbs/A after applying activated charcoal in a 1” wide band above seeds or crowns. For postemergence weed control, apply 1-2 lbs/A per application, up to 2 applications. Do not exceed 4 lbs/A per year. Spray when ferns are more than 6” tall and weeds are less than 4” tall. Use the lower rate on sandy soils and the higher rate on silt and clay soils.
• paraquat (Gramoxone SL 2.0*): PHI 6d, REI 12h or 24h, Group 22. Apply 1.7-2.7 pt/A per application, only 1 application allowed per year. Can be applied before planting or as a stale seedbed application in a minimum of 10 gal/A of spray. May be fatal if swallowed or inhaled. Restricted-use: Applicators must complete an EPA-approved paraquat training every 3 years: https://www.epa.gov/pesticide-worker-safety/paraquat-dichloride-training-certified-applicators.
• pelargonic acid (Scythe): PHI 1d, REI 12h, Group 0. Apply a 3-10% solution (3-10 gallons per 100 gallons of spray). Apply in 75-200 gal/A of spray. Can be applied preplant, or as a directed and shielded spray during crop growth. Avoid contact with foliage or crop damage may occur. Spray to wet, but do not allow runoff of spray solution.
• pendimethalin (Prowl H2O): PHI 14d, REI 24h, Group 3. Apply 8.2 pt/A, only 1 application allowed per year. Can be applied to newly planted crowns but NOT to a newly seeded crop. When applying to newly planted crown asparagus, ensure crowns are fully covered with 2-4” of soil. Do not apply over the top of emerged spears or injury will occur. On sandy soils do not use more than 2.4 pt/A. Apply uniformly to the soil surface, cultivate or use Gramoxone to control emerged weeds.
• terbacil (Sinbar WDG): PHI 5d, REI 12h, Group 5. Apply 1-2 lbs/A per application, multiple applications are allowed. Do not exceed 2.5 lbs/A per year. Direct seed asparagus 1.5-1” deep, then apply activated charcoal in a 1” wide band above seeds or crowns and then apply Sinbar WDG. Use a lower rate on sandy soils.
• trifluralin (Treflan HFP): REI 12h, Group 3. Apply 1-4 pts/A per application, multiple applications allowed. Do not exceed 4 pts/A per year. Apply prior to planting or immediately after planting seed and prior to crop germination. Can also apply and incorporated at or before the last cultivation. Rate depends on soil texture and percent organic matter. Incorporate within 24 hours of application and a second time in the opposite direction for best results. Take care not to bring untreated soil to the soil surface during re-incorporation.

Established Beds – Before spear emergence or after harvest season

• carfentrazone-ethyl (Aim EC): PHI 5d, REI 12h, Group 14. Apply 0.5-2 oz/A per application, 2 applications allowed per year, a minimum of 20 days apart. Do not exceed 3.8 oz/A per year. Apply as a hooded application, or as a broadcast application after harvest to control broadleaf weeds and existing asparagus tissue.
• clomazone (Command 3ME): PHI 14d, REI 12h, Group 13. Apply 42.7 oz/A, only 1 application allowed per year. Apply prior to spear and weed emergence or after a clean harvest in at least 10 gal of spray per acre. All asparagus plant parts must be covered with soil prior to application to prevent injury.
• diuron (Diuron 4L): REI 12h, Group 5. Apply 0.8-3.2 qts/A if 1 application is made or apply 0.8-2.4qts/A per application if 2 applications are made. Do not exceed 4.8 qts/A per year. Use the lower rate on sandy soils and the higher rate on silt and clay soils. Can be applied before weeds become established but no earlier than 4 weeks before spear emergence and no later than the early cutting period. A second application can be applied immediately following the final harvest if rainfall is expected.
• flumioxazin (Chateau SW): REI 12h, Group 14. Apply 6 oz/A per application, only 1 application allowed per year. Must be applied to dormant asparagus postharvest, at least 2 weeks before spear emergence. If soil has been disturbed within 60 days prior to application or if asparagus is not dormant, crop injury may occur. Must be sprinkler or rainfall incorporated (0.5 to 0.75” of water). Can be tank-mixed with Gramoxone for burndown of emerged weeds.
• linuron (Lorox DF): PHI 1d, REI 24h, Group 5. For pre- and postemergence control of many annual broadleaf weeds. Before spears emerge, apply 1-4 lbs/A per application. Do not exceed 4 lbs/A per year, (including applications after spear emergence). Use the lower rate on sandy soils and the higher rate on silt and clay soils.
• mesotrione (Callisto): REI 12h, Group 27. Apply 3 to 7.7 oz/A per application, a maximum of 2 applications allowed per year, a minimum of 14 days between applications. Do not exceed 7.7 oz/A per year. Can be applied in the spring prior to spear emergence, or after harvest, or both. When using Callisto after harvest, till the field or tank-mix with Gramoxone to eliminate emerged spears or crop injury may be observed. Callisto provides excellent control of horseweed (also called marestail) and common lambsquarters. Add 1% crop oil concentrate (1 gal per 100 gal of spray solution) or 0.25% nonionic surfactant (1 qt/100 gal of spray solution) if target weeds are emerged at the time of application.
• metribuzin (Metribuzin 75): PHI 14d, REI 12h, Group 5. Apply 1.3 to 2.6 lb/A in the spring as a single application or apply 0.6 to 1.3 lbs/A in the spring and 1.3 to 2.0 lbs/A after harvest but before fern emergence as a split application. Do not exceed 2.6 lbs/A per year. Do not apply to established beds after emergence.
• napropamide (Devrinol 2-XT): REI 24h, Group 0. Apply up to 2 gal/A, only 1 application allowed per year. Apply to a weed-free soil surface. Incorporate with 2-4” of water through irrigation or rainfall within 24 hours of application.
• norflurazon (Solicam DF): PHI 14d, REI 12h, Group 12. Apply 2.5 to 5 lb/A, multiple applications per year are allowed, but maximum rate per year is based on soil texture. Incorporate and activate with water through irrigation or rainfall within 4 weeks of application. Apply as a directed spray to the soil.
• paraquat (Gramoxone SL 2.0*): PHI 6d, REI 12h, Group 22. Apply 1.7 to 2.7 pts/A, only 1 application allowed per year. Apply prior to emergence of crop; asparagus plants that have emerged at time of application will be killed. May be fatal if swallowed or inhaled. Restricted-use: Applicators must complete an EPA-approved paraquat training every 3 years: https://www.epa.gov/pesticide-worker-safety/paraquat-dichloride-training....
• pendimethalin (Prowl H2O): PHI 14d, REI 24h, Group 3. Apply 8.2 pt/A, only 1 application allowed per year. On sandy soils do not use more than 2.4 pt/A per year. Apply before spear emergence or after harvest. Do not apply over the top of emerged spears or injury will occur. Apply uniformly to the soil surface, cultivate or use Gramoxone to control emerged weeds. 
• quinclorac (Quinstar 4L): REI 12h, Group 4. Apply up to 12.6 oz/A per application, only 1 application allowed per year. Apply to the soil after the last harvest, before the first frost. Can add a crop oil concentrate. Apply in a minimum of 10 gal/A of spray. Do not apply when crops are stressed. 
• sulfentrazone (Aquesta 4F): REI 12h, Group 14. Apply 4.5-12 oz/A per application, only 1 application allowed per year. Rate based on soil texture, organic matter and soil pH. Apply to the soil in the spring, before spears have emerged in 10-40 gal/A of spray. Do not use on soils that have less than 1% organic matter.
• terbacil (Sinbar WDG): PHI 5d, REI 12h, Group 5. Apply 1 to 1.5 lbs/A per application, multiple applications are allowed. Do not exceed 2.5 lbs/A per year. Apply after a clean cutting or after the last harvest, prior to spear emergence. Use a lower rate on coarse-textured soils. Do not apply if roots are exposed or if the planting is weak.
• trifluralin (Treflan HFP): REI 12h, Group 3. Apply 1 to 4 pts/A per application, multiple applications allowed. Do not exceed 4 pts/A per year. Apply as a single or split application to dormant asparagus in winter or early spring after mature ferns have been removed. Do not apply immediately after harvest in late spring/early summer just before ferns develop. Rate depends on soil texture and percent organic matter. Incorporate within 24 hours of application and a second time in the opposite direction for best results. Take care not to bring untreated soil to the soil surface during re-incorporation.

Established Beds - Postemergence, after weeds germinate

• 2,4-D sodium salt (Amine 4): PHI 3d, REI 48h, Group 4. Apply 3-4 pt/A per application, up to 2 applications allowed per season, a minimum of 1 month apart. Do not exceed 4.2 pts/A per year. Apply in 50-60 gal/A of spray in the spring. Keep spray off spears and ferns by using drop nozzles. Cut and discard any malformed spears immediately. 2,4-D is hazardous to most horticultural crops. Drift or sprays may seriously injure or reduce yields of these crops. May help to control unwanted seedling asparagus.
• clopyralid (Clean Slate): PHI 48h, REI 12h, Group 4. Apply 0.5-0.67 pts/A per application, up to 2 applications allowed per year. Do not exceed 0.67 pts/A per year. Apply before or during the asparagus cutting season or after the final harvest but before fern growth. Following application, wait at least 2 weeks before cultivating. Layby applications should be made as soon as possible after cutting as long as weeds are at the proper stage of growth. Malformed ferns may result from application when spears are more than 3" tall or with open seed heads. When this product is applied during the cutting season, some crooking (twisting) of asparagus spears may occur. Do not apply during the cutting season if crooking cannot be tolerated. Clear-cutting of spears just before applying this product may reduce the occurrence of crooking.
• dicamba (Clarity): PHI 24h, REI 24h, Group 4. Apply 8 to 16 fl oz/A per application, multiple applications allowed. Do not exceed 16 fl oz/A per year. Apply to emerged and actively growing weeds immediately after cutting field but at least 24 hrs before next cutting. If spray contacts emerged spears, crooking (twisting) of some spears may result. If crooking occurs, discard affected spears.
• glyphosate (Roundup Power Max): PHI 14d, REI 4h, Group 9. Apply 10 fl oz to 3.1 qts/A per application. Do not exceed 5 qts/A per year. Apply to emerged weeds well before spear emergence in the spring or after cutting season when all spears and ferns have been removed (clean cut). Avoid contact with any part of the asparagus or crop death could occur. Rate depends on target weeds, see label for rate selection.
• halosulfuron (Sandea): PHI 1d, REI 12h, Group 2. Apply 0.5 to 1.5 oz/A per application, up to 2 applications allowed per season. Do not exceed 2 oz/A per year. For us in transplanted crowns and established beds only. For transplanted crowns, apply no sooner than 6 weeks after fern emergence. For established beds, apply before, during, or at the end of harvesting season. May cause temporary stunting or twisting of ferns on certain varieties. Crop injury will decrease and weed control will improve when applied with a drop nozzel as a directed spray below the ferns. If targeting nutsedge, split applications during and after harvest are recommended. Use 0.75-1 oz per acre for each application at least 21-30 days apart, when nutsedge is targeted. Weed control may be reduced without the use of a surfactant.
• linuron (Lorox DF): PHI 1d, REI 24h, Group 5. For pre- and postemergence control of many annual broadleaf weeds. For postemergence weed control, apply 1-2 lbs/A per application, up to 3 applications, or 1 application of 4 lbs/A at the fern stage as a directed spray. Do not exceed 4 lbs/A per year (including applications before spear emergence). Spray when ferns are more than 6” tall and weeds are less than 4” tall. Use the lower rate on sandy soils low in organic matter, and the higher rate on silt and clay soils.
• pelargonic acid (Scythe): PHI 1d, REI 12h, Group 0. PHI 1d, REI 12h, Group 0. Apply a 3-10% solution (3-10 gallons per 100 gallons of spray). Apply in 75-200 gal/A of spray. Can use before planting, or as a directed and shielded spray during crop growth. Avoid contact with foliage or crop damage may occur. Spray to wet, but do not allow runoff of spray solution.
• s-metolachlor (Dual Magnum): REI 24h, Group 15. MA, ME, and NH only. Make sure the label for your state is available for download before using this product. This is a restricted label available only to growers who apply through the website www.syngenta-us.com/labels/indemnified-label-login and agree to a waiver of liability. Main target weeds for this registration are galinsoga and yellow nutsedge. All label instructions will be supplied after the application for use is completed.

There is limited local data available for quinclorac (Quinstar), carfentrazone (Aim), sulfentrazone (Aquesta), and diquat (Reglone). There may be potential crop injury concerns with use of these products in our region.

NOTES: For the disease control products listed below, one product trade name and formulation is provided for each active ingredient (common name) as an example of rates, preharvest interval (PHI), restricted entry interval (REI), and special instructions. In many cases, there are other products available with the same active ingredient. Please see Table 26 and Fungicides and Bactericides Alphabetically Listed by Trade Name for more information on products with the same active ingredients.

The symbol ^OG indicates a product is listed by the Organic Materials Review Institute (OMRI) as approved for use in organic production. See Organic Certification section for more details.

Pesticide use in greenhouses and high tunnels:

Pesticides can be used on high tunnel and greenhouse crops if: 1) the crop and pest/disease is on the label, AND the products specifically says it can be used in the greenhouse; OR 2) the crop and pest/disease is on the label, AND the product is ‘silent’ about use in the greenhouse in the greenhouse. Products that specifically prohibit greenhouse use cannot be used in greenhouses or high tunnels regardless of the crops or pests/diseases listed on the label.

Purchase disease-free seed. Use resistant varieties where feasible. Promptly remove any stock plants that are diseased or low in vigor. Use separate greenhouses for herb production and keep stock plants separate from production areas. There are few fungicides or bactericides registered for herbs.

Bacterial Leaf Spot (Pseudomonas cichorii)

Disinfect all benches, equipment, and pots. Purchase culture-indexed plants and disease-free seed. Avoid overhead irrigation. Discard infected plants. Clean production areas thoroughly after harvest, as bacteria can survive in dead leaves.

Botrytis blight and stem canker (Botrytis cinerea)

Management of environmental conditions such as temperature, relative humidity, and duration of leaf wetness is vital to Botrytis control. Control weeds and remove plant debris between crops and during production. Provide good air circulation and reduce humidity within the plant canopy by proper plant spacing, plant height, and fertility. Water in the morning, never late in the day.

• Bacillus amyloliquefaciens F727 (Stargus^OG): 2.0 to 4.0 qt/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Group BM02. Apply preventatively.
• cyprodinil plus fludioxonil (Switch 62.5 WG): 11.0 to 14.0 oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Groups 9 & 12. Do not make more than 2 consecutive applications.
• potassium bicarbonate (PB 133, MilStop SP^OG): 2.5 to 5.0 lb/100.0 gal; PHI 0d, REI 1h, Group NC. See label for small volume application rates.
• Ulocladium oudemansii U3 strain (BotryStop^OG): 2.0 to 4.0 lbs/A; REI 4h, Group NC. Begin application when conditions are conducive to disease development.

Damping-off, Crown and Root Rot (Pythium spp., Rhizoctonia spp., Fusarium spp. & Phytophthora spp.)

Use pasteurized soil or soilless mixes for transplant production. Disinfect all flats, pots, and tools. Use bottom heat to promote rapid seed germination. Avoid over-watering, over-fertilizing, and overcrowding. Promptly rogue out infected plants. Manage fungus gnats and shore flies. 

• Bacillus amyloliquefaciens F727 (Stargus^OG): 2.0 to 4.0 qt/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Group BM02. Apply preventatively in a minimum of 50.0 gallons of water/A.
• mefenoxam (Ridomil Gold SL): 0.5 to 1.0 pt/A; PHI 21d, REI 48h, Group 4. Pythium and Phytophthora only.
• fludioxonil (Maxim 4FS): 0.08 to 0.16 oz/100 lb seed; REI 12h, Group 12. For protection against seedborne and soil-borne fungi. Does not control Pythium or Phytophthora.
• potassium phosphite (K-Phite 7LP): 1.0 to 4.0 qt/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Group P07. Apply in a minimum of 20.0 gal water/A.

Downy Mildew (Peronospora belbarhii)

Downy mildew of basil can be serious in both field and greenhouse production. Start with certified, disease-free seed. Scout crops regularly and promptly remove and destroy infected plants. Reduce leaf wetness duration by increasing plant spacing, improving air circulation, and watering when plants will dry quickly. In the greenhouse, use a combination of heating and venting to reduce humidity and condensation, especially when warm days are followed by cool nights. Varieties with some resistance to downy mildew are available (see Varieties).

• azoxystrobin (Heritage): 0.18 oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Group 11. See label for instructions.
• Bacillus amyloliquefaciens F727 (Stargus^OG): 2 to 4 qt/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Group BM02. Apply preventatively.
• copper octanoate (Cueva): 16.8 gal/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Group M01. Begin applications when environmental conditions favor disease development. 
• cyazofamid (Ranman 400SC): 2.75 to 3.0 fl oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Group 21. Greenhouse and field use.
• fenamidone (Reason 500 SC): 6.0 fl. oz/A; PHI 2d, REI 12h Group 11. Greenhouse and field. Do not alternate with other Group 11 fungicides.
• fluopicolide (Presidio 4SC): 4.0 fl oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Group 43. Field use only. Must be tank mixed with a fungicide with a different mode of action. 
• hydrogen peroxide and peroxyacetic acid (Oxidate 2.0^OG): 1:2 to 1:4 dilution; PHI 0d, REI 0h. Do not tank mix with copper. 
• laminarim (Vacciplant): 14.0 to 22.0 fl oz/A; PHI od, REI 4h, Group P04. See label for application methods and restrictions. 
• mandipropamid (Micora): 8.0 fl oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 4h, Group 40. Greenhouses use limited to structures with permanent flooring only. Not labeled for field use.
• mandipropamid (Revus): 8.0 fl oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 4h, Group 40. Field use only.
• mefenoxam (Subdue Maxx): 2.0 pt/A; PHI 21d, REI 48h, Group 4. Tank mix with fungicides from other groups. 
• oxathiapiprolin (Segovis): 1.1 to 2.4 fl.oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Group 49. Begin foliar application prior to disease development. Use the higher rate when disease is present. 
• potassium bicarbonate (PB 133 AKA MilStop SP^OG): 2.5 lb/100 gal; PHI 0d, REI 1h, Group NC. Thorough coverage is essential. Registered for greenhouse and field use. See label for small volume application rates.
• potassium salts of phosphorous acid (Fosphite): 1.0 to 3.0 qt/100.0 gal/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Group P07. Do not apply to plants that are heat- or moisture-stressed.
• Streptomyces lydicus (Actinovate^OG): 6.0 to 12.0 oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 1h, Group NC.
• thyme oil (Guarda): See label for rate; PHI 0h, REI 0h, Group NC. See label for application methods and rates. Ensure thorough coverage to the point of runoff ( 15-25 gallons per acre.)

Fusarium Wilt (Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. basilici)

Fusarium wilt is very difficult to manage as it can persist in the soil or hydroponic system for many years. Practice strict sanitation. Begin with disease-free seed or treat seed with hot water or dilute bleach. The basil varieties Aroma 2, Nufar, Newton, and Rutgers Obsession have some resistance to Fusarium wilt. Fusarium is a soil inhabitant that can become established in the field. Promptly remove and destroy all infected plants, infested soil, and plant debris. Rotate crops, excluding members of the mint family, which can be symptomless carriers of Fusarium.

NOTES: For the insecticides listed below, one product trade name and formulation is provided for each active ingredient (AI) as an example of rates, preharvest interval (PHI), restricted entry interval (REI), and special instructions. In many cases, there are other products available with the same AI. Please see Table 27 and Insecticides Alphabetically Listed by Trade Name for more information on these insecticides.

The designation (Bee: L, M, or H) indicates a bee toxicity rating of low, moderate, or high. See the Protecting Honeybees and Native Pollinators section for more details.

The symbol * indicates a product is a restricted use pesticide. See Pesticide Safety for more details.

The symbol ^OG indicates a product is listed by the Organic Materials Review Institute (OMRI) as approved for use in organic production. See Organic Certification section for more details. 

Aphids

For more information on biology, see aphids in the pepper section.

• azadirachtin (Azatin O^OG): 4 to 16 oz/A foliar or drench, 4 to 16 oz/100 gal in greenhouses; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: L, Group UN. When using lower rates, combine with adjuvant for improved spray coverage and translaminar uptake.
• Beauveria bassiana (Mycotrol ESO^OG): 8 to 32 oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: L, Group UN. Treat when populations are low and thoroughly cover foliage. Takes 7-10 days after application to see control.
• Chromobacterium subtsugae strain PRAA4-1 (Grandevo^OG): 2 to 3 lb/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: M. Group UN.
• imidacloprid (Admire Pro): 7 to 10.5 oz/A soil, 1.2 oz/A foliar; PHI 14d soil, 7d foliar, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 4A.
• insecticidal soap (M-Pede^OG): 1.25 to 2.5 oz/gal water; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: L. Spray to wet all infested plant surfaces. Repeat application every 2-3 days until pest is under control. For enhanced and residual control apply with companion labeled insecticide.
• Isaria fumosorosea Apopka Strain 97 (PFR-97 20% WDG^OG): 1 to 2 lb/A (foliar); PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: M, Group UN.
• pyrethrin (PyGanic EC5.0^OG): 4.5 to 17 oz/A; 0.25 to 0.50 oz/gal, 3 gal/1000 sq ft in greenhouse for backpack sprayers; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: M, Group 3A.

Japanese and Oriental Beetles

Beetles move into basil after emerging from soil in turf, pastures, or fallow areas, starting in late June and peaking in July. Adult beetles skeletonize leaves as they feed. Row covers can prevent feeding, but watch for build-up of aphids due to exclusion of natural enemies. The basil variety Nufar is very attractive to Japanese beetles and can be used for a trap crop.

• azadirachtin (Azatin O^OG): 4 to 16 oz/A foliar or drench, 4 to 16 oz/100 gal in greenhouses; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: L, Group UN. When using lower rates, combine with adjuvant for improved spray coverage and translaminar uptake. 
• Isaria fumosorosea Apopka Strain 97 (PFR-97 20% WDG^OG): 1 to 2 lb/A (soil applications only); PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: M, Group UN.
• pyrethrin (PyGanic EC5.0^OG): 4.5 to 17 oz/A; 0.25 to 0.50 oz/gal, 3 gal/1000 sq ft in greenhouse for backpack sprayers; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: M, Group 3A. Japanese beetles only.

NOTES: For the herbicides listed below, one product trade name and formulation is provided for each active ingredient along with preharvest interval (PHI), restricted entry interval (REI), resistance management group number, and example of rates and special instructions. In many cases, there are other products available with the same active ingredient. However, not all products with the same active ingredient are registered for use in a crop. Always check the product label to be sure that the crop is listed before using.

Many growers choose to grow basil on plastic mulch. Basil usually grows quickly and shades the planting hole in plasticulture, out-competing weed growth. Apply the plastic at least 2-3 weeks prior to planting and kill the weeds between the mulch prior to setting the basil plants on the plastic. On bare ground culture, keep cultivations shallow to protect crop roots. Do not move soil into the crop row as basil plants may be more susceptible to diseases when soil is mounded against the stems of the crop.

Stale Seedbed 

See Stale Seedbed Technique for information on the use of these herbicides or flaming.

• glyphosate (Roundup Power Max): PHI 14d, REI 4h, Group 9. 
• pelargonic acid (Scythe): PHI 1d, REI 12h, Group 0. 

Preemergent Herbicides (before weeds germinate)

• napropamide (Devrinol 2-XT): REI 24h, Group 0. Apply 2-4 qt/A per application, only 1 application per year. Can only be applied to transplants before planting. Use the lower rate on sandy soils and the higher rate on silt and clay soils. Incorporate 2-4” into the soil with shallow cultivation or water through irrigation or rainfall within 24 hours of application. If using plastic mulch irrigate with sufficient water to wet to a depth of 2-4” if soil is dry, incorporate into the soil, and then lay mulch on the same day as application.

Postemergent Herbicides (after weeds germinate)

• carfentrazone (Aim EC): REI 12h, Group 14. Apply up to 2 oz/A per application, multiple applications allowed per year. Do not exceed 6.1 oz/A per year. Can be applied to row middles of emerged crops with hooded sprayers to control emerged weeds, including crops grown on mulch or plastic. Prevent any spray from contacting the crop, or injury will occur. For best results, make application to actively growing weeds up to 4” tall and rosettes less than 3” across.
• clethodim (Select Max): PHI 14d, REI 24h, Group 1. Apply 9-16 oz/A per application, up to 4 applications allowed per year, a minimum of 14 days apart. Do not exceed 64 oz/A per year. Apply to actively growing grasses. Add 0.25% v:v nonionic surfactant (1 qt per 100 gal of spray). Can also be used as a spot-spray by mixing 1/3% to 2/3% (0.44 to 0.85 oz per gallon) Select Max and 0.25% v:v nonionic surfactant (0.33 oz per gallon). Spray to wet, but do not allow runoff of spray solution. Has not been tested on all varieties, crop tolerance should be verified before treating the entire field. If no crop response is evident seven days after treatment, Select Max Herbicide may be used on the entire field at the rate tested.
• glyphosate (Roundup PowerMax): PHI 7d, REI 4h, Group 9. Apply 10 oz to 3.1 qts/A per application, multiple applications allowed per year. Do not exceed 5 qts/A per year. Rate based on target weed species. Can be applied during fallow intervals, prior to planting or transplanting, at planting, or before crop has emerged. May cause injury when applied prior to transplanting or direct-seeding into plastic mulch. Remove residual product from plastic mulch with a 0.5” of water through irrigation or rainfall prior to planting.
• pelargonic acid (Scythe): PHI 24h, REI 12h, Group 0. Apply a 3-10% solution (3-10 gallons per 100 gallons of spray). Apply in 75-200 gal/A of spray. Can use preplant, or as a directed and shielded spray during crop growth. Avoid contact with foliage or crop damage may occur. Spray to wet, but do not allow runoff of spray solution.

NOTES: For the disease control products listed below, one product trade name and formulation is provided for each active ingredient (common name) as an example of rates, preharvest interval (PHI), restricted entry interval (REI), and special instructions. In many cases, there are other products available with the same active ingredient. Please see Table 26 and Fungicides and Bactericides Alphabetically Listed by Trade Name for more information on products with the same active ingredients.

The symbol ^OG indicates a product is listed by the Organic Materials Review Institute (OMRI) as approved for use in organic production. See Organic Certification section for more details.

Anthracnose (Colletotrichum lindemuthianum)

Anthracnose is common in beans. The causal fungus can be seedborne and may also survive on dry, undecomposed crop residues for up to 5 years. Symptoms begin as red spots on leaves and pods that develop into black lesions. Leaf veins can turn red-brown. Start with certified, disease-free seed and use resistant cultivars. Fungicides may be applied as seed treatments or foliar sprays.

• azoxystrobin (Quadris F): 6.0 to 15.5 fl oz/A; PHI 14d dry, 0d succulent, REI 4h, Group 11.
• azoxystrobin plus chlorothalonil (Quadris Opti): 1.6 to 2.4 pt/A; PHI 14d, REI 12h, Groups 11 & M5. Dry bean only. See label for tank mix precautions. 
• azoxystrobin plus propiconazole (Quilt Xcel): 10.5 to 14.0 fl oz/A; PHI 7d succulent, PHI 14d dry, REI 12h, Groups 11 & 3. May cause crop injury. See label for restrictions and warning
• chlorothalonil (Bravo Weather Stik): 1.375 to 2.0 pt/A; PHI 14d, REI 12h, Group M05. Dry bean only. 
• fluxapyroxad plus pyraclostrobin (Priaxor Xemium): 4.0 to 8.0 fl oz/A; PHI 7d succulent, 21d dry, REI 12h, Groups 7 & 11. See label for livestock feeding restrictions.
• penthiopyrad (Fontelis): 14.0 to 30.0 fl oz/A succulent, 14.0 to 20.0 fl oz/A dry; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Group 7. Maximum 2 applications per year. See label for specific application methods.
• potassium bicarbonate (PB 133, AKA MilStop SP^OG): 2.0 to 5.0 lb/100 gal; PHI 0d, REI 1h. May be used in greenhouse. See label for small volume applications.
• propiconazole (Tilt): 4.0 fl oz/A; PHI 7d succulent, 0d dry, REI 24h, Group 3.
• Pseudomonas chloraphis (Howler^OG): 2.5 to 7.5 lbs/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Group BM02. Use preventatively.
• pyraclostrobin (Headline): 6.0 to 9.0 fl oz/A; PHI 7d succulent, 21d dry, REI 12h, Group 11. See label for livestock feeding restrictions. Apply at the beginning of flowering. Do not make more than 2 applications before rotating to a non-Group 11 fungicide.
• Reynoutria sachalinensis extract (Regalia): 1.0 to 4.0 qt/A ground application; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Group P05. Ensure thorough coverage. See label for specific application instructions.
• thiophanate-methyl (Topsin 4.5 FL): 20 to 40 fl oz/A; PHI 14d snap, 28d dry, REI 24h succulent, 72h dry, Group 1. Rate is dependent on crop phenology; see label for details.

Downy Mildew - Lima Beans (Phytophthora phaseoli)

Downy mildew appears as a dense mat of white mycelium on infected pods. Sclerotia are not present, differentiating this disease from white mold. There is often a reddish-brown border between healthy and diseased tissue. Resistant lima bean varieties are available. Only Phaseolus species are susceptible. Apply seed treatments to protect germinating seedlings against soilborne inoculum. Plow under infected debris in fall. Rotate with crops other than beans for two years.

• chlorothalonil (Bravo Weather Stik): 1.375 to 2 pt/A; PHI 14d, REI 12h, Group M05. Dry bean only. 
• copper hydroxide (Kocide 3000): 0.5 to 1.25 lb/A; PHI 0d, REI 48h, Group M01. Do not apply in a spray solution with pH less than 6.5 or tank mix with Aliette.
• cyazofamid (Ranman 400SC): 2.75 fl oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Group 21. Succulent beans only. Tank mix with organosilicone or non-ionic surfactant.
• fluxapyroxad plus pyraclostrobin (Priaxor Xemium): 4.0 to 8.0 fl oz/A; PHI 7d succulent, 21d dry, REI 12h, Groups 7 & 11. Maximum 2 applications per year.
• mefenoxam (Ridomil Gold XL): 0.125 to 0.2 pt/A. PHI 3d, REI 48h, Group 4. Succulent beans only. Must be tank mixed with high rate of another fungicide registered for downy mildew.
• potassium salts of phosphorous acid (Fosphite): 1.0 to 3.0 qt/100 gal/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Group P07. To avoid phototoxicity do not apply to heat- or moisture-stressed crops or plants recently treated with copper.
• potassium bicarbonate (PB 133, AKA MilStop SP^OG): 2.5 lb/100 gal; PHI 0d, REI 1h. Labeled for greenhouse use. See label for small volume applications.
• Pseudomanas chloraphis strain AFS009 (Howler EVO^OM): 2.5 to 7.5 lbs/A field, 2.5 to 7.5 lb/100 gal water greenhouse. PHI 0d, REI 4h, Group BM02. Use preventatively. Labeled for various bean varieties. Maybe used in greenhouse - see label.
• pyraclostrobin (Headline): 6.0 to 9.0 fl oz/A; PHI 7d succulent, 21d dry, REI 12h, Group 11. Do not make more than 2 applications before rotating to a non-Group 11 fungicide.

Rhizoctonia solani

Rhizoctonia solani causes stem cankers and damping-off on peas and beans. The pathogen survives as sclerotia (fungal survival structures) and mycelium in the soil and in plant debris. It is spread by wind, rain, irrigation water, and movement of infested soil. When a field becomes infested, it remains so indefinitely. Seedlings and young plants are highly susceptible to infection and disease severity is increased by low soil temperatures and compaction. Seed decay and damping-off can be controlled by using high-quality seed and with practices that encourage rapid germination and emergence. Soil preparation that minimizes soil compaction and structural damage will lessen disease severity. Rotate crops with a cereal or pasture crop (avoid beets, beans, brassicas, and potatoes, all of which increase inoculum). Cover crops and other practices that increase organic matter and improve soil structure are recommended. Some brassica crops (mustard, rape) used as green manure have been reported to be disease suppressive.

• azoxystrobin plus chlorothalonil (Quadris Opti): 1.6 to 2.4 pt/A; PHI 14d, REI 12h, Group 11 & M05. Dry bean only. Labeled for web blight caused by Rhizoctonia solani. See label for tank mixing restrictions. 
• Bacillus amyloliquefaciens F727 (Stargus^OG): 1.0 to 4.0 qt/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Group BM02. Apply preventatively.
• fludioxonil (Maxim 4FS): 0.08 to 0.16 oz/100 lb seed; REI 12h, Group 12. For protection against seedborne and soilborne fungi.
• PCNB (Blocker 10G): 1.0 lbs/1,000 ft. for bush beans, 1.0 to 2.0 lbs/1,000 ft. for pole beans; REI 12h, Group 14. Bush and pole beans only. Apply in a 12-15" band over seed in-furrow at planting time and cover immediately. Do not feed treated vines to livestock.
• pyraclostrobin (Headline SC): 6.0 to 9.0 fl oz/A; PHI 7d succulent, 21d dry, REI 11h. For control of soilborne Rhizoctonia when applied in furrow as a preventive. See label for restrictions. 
• Reynoutria sachalinensis extract (Ragalia^OG): 1.0 to 4.0 qt/A; PHI 0D, REI 4h, Group P05. Apply to ensure thorough coverage. See label for specific application instructions.
• Trichoderma asperellum (ICC 012) + T. gamsii (ICC 080) (Biotam 2.0): See label for in-furrow, drench, and broadcast rates; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Group BM02.
• thiram (Thiram 42-S): 2.0 fl oz/100 lb seed for snap and dry beans, 3.0 fl oz/100 lb seed for lima beans; REI 24h, Group M03. Basal stem/stalk rot and seedling blight and damping-off generally.

Rust (Uromyces appendiculatus)

Appears on the undersides of leaves as small, distinct reddish pustules that produce dust-like spores. Defoliation can occur in severe cases. Plant resistant varieties. Plow under, bury, or otherwise destroy crop residues to reduce overwintering inoculum. Rotate away from beans for 2 years or up to 5 years in reduced tillage systems. Avoid overfertilizing with nitrogen, and ensure adequate potassium. In pole bean production, be sure to disinfect poles. Encourage airflow with adequate plant spacing and avoid overhead irrigation if possible. Irrigate early in the day.

• azoxystrobin (Quadris F): 6.0 to 15.5 fl oz/A; PHI 14d dry, 0d succulent, REI 4h, Group 11. Use a non-ionic surfactant.
• azoxystrobin plus chlorothalonil (Quadris Opti): 1.6 to 2.4 pt/A; PHI 14d, REI 12h, Groups 11 & M05. See label for tank mix precautions. Dry bean only; not labeled for soybean. 
• azoxystrobin plus propiconazole (Quilt Xcel): 10.5 to 14 fl oz/A; PHI 7d succulent, 14 dry, REI 12h, Groups 11 & 3. May cause crop injury. See label for restrictions and warning.
• Bacillus amyloliquefaciens strain D747 (DoubleNickel 55^OG): 0.25 to 3.0 lb/A; PHI 0d, REI 4 h, Group BM02. Disease suppression only. For improved control, mix or rotate with a chemical fungicide.
• chlorothalonil (Bravo Weather Stik): 1.375 to 3.0 pt/A succulent, 1.375 to 2.0 pt/A dry; PHI 7d succulent, 14d dry, REI 12h, Group M05.
• fluxapyroxad plus pyraclostrobin (Priaxor Xemium): 4.0 to 8.0 fl oz/A; PHI 7d succulent, 21d dry, REI 12h, Groups 7 & 11. Maximum 2 applications per year.
• myclobutanil (Rally 40WSP): 4.0 to 5.0 oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 24h, Group 3. Observe a 30-day plant back interval.
• penthiopyrad (Fontelis): 14.0 to 30.0 fl oz/A for succulent, 14.0 to 20.0 fl oz/A for dry; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Group 7. Maximum 2 applications per year.
• propiconazole (Tilt): 4.0 fl oz/A; PHI 7d succulent, 0d dry, REI 12h, Group 3. May cause plant injury in certain bean varieties. See label for restrictions and warnings.
• pyraclostrobin (Headline): 6.0 to 9.0 fl oz/A; PHI 7d succulent, 21d dry, REI 12h, Group 11. Do not make more than 2 applications per season before rotating with a non-Group 11 fungicide.
• sulfur (Microthiol Disperss^OG): 3.0 to 10.0 lb/A; PHI 0d, REI 24h, Group M02. See label for restrictions and phytotoxicity warnings. 

Seed Decay

Buy treated seed. Do not use treated seed for food or feed.

• Bacillus amyloliquefaciens strain D747 (DoubleNickel 55^OG): 0.125 to1.0 lb/A at planting; PHI 0d, REI 4 h, Group BM02. Suppression only.
• fludioxonil (Maxim 4FS): 0.08 to 0.16 oz/100 lb seed; REI 12h, Group 12. For protection against seedborne and soilborne fungi.
• mefenoxam (Apron XL): Rate varies by bean type and pathogen—see label; REI 48h, Group 4. For Pythium damping off and early season Phytophthora protection.
• Streptomyces griseoviridis strain K61 (MycoStop^OG): See label for rate information; REI 4h, Group BM02. Rates vary by pound of seed to be treated. See label for application instructions and restrictions. 
• thiram (Thiram 42-S): 3.0 fl oz/100 lb seed for lima bean, 2.0 fl oz/100 lb seed for snap and dry beans; REI 24h, Group M03.

White Mold (Sclerotinia sclerotiorum)

Space plants to allow good air circulation. Plant on well-drained soil. Sclerotinia produces sclerotia, which are hard, black structures that are 1/16" to 1/2" long, inside or on the surface of infected tissue. Sclerotia can survive for years in the soil and are responsible for initiating disease. Germination of sclerotia is weather dependent, with peak germination at 52°F though some sclerotia germinate over a wider range of temperatures. A minimum of 10 consecutive days of available water in soil is also required for germination of sclerotia.

Many vegetable crops and weeds are susceptible to this fungus; corn and grasses are not. Lettuce, cabbage, tomato, carrot, brassicas, and snap beans are among the most susceptible and should not be grown on land known to be contaminated with Sclerotinia. After an episode of disease, rotate away from susceptible crops for 7 years. A single infected head of cabbage may produce more than 1,000 sclerotia. Removal of diseased plant material as soon as possible is highly recommended.

• Bacillus amyloliquefaciens strain F727 (Stargus^OG): 1.0 to 4.0 qt/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Group BM02. Apply in furrow at planting in a minimum of 5 - 15 gallons of water/A. See label for additional application methods and instructions. 
• boscalid (Endura): 8.0 to 11.0 oz/A; PHI 7d succulent, 21d dry, REI 12h, Group 7. Do not make more than 2 applications per season.
• cyprodinil plus fludioxonil (Switch 6.25 WG): 11.0 to 14.0 oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Groups 9 & 12. Make the first application at 10-20% bloom. In some locations a single application at this timing will provide adequate disease control.
• Coniothyrium minitans Strain CON/M/91-08 (Contans WG^OG): 1.0 to 4.0 lb/A in 20 to 50 gal water; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Group BM02. Spray on the soil surface and incorporate into the top 2" of soil. See label for application instructions and restrictions. Do not tank mix with other fungicides. 
• fluazinam (Omega 500F): 8.0 to 13.6 fl/A; PHI 14d succulent, 30d dry and lima, REI 12h, Group 29. Make the first application at 10-30% bloom. See label for restriction applications.
• iprodione (Rovral 4F): 1.5 to 2.0 pt/A; PHI 14d, REI 24h, Group 2. Maximum 2 application per season. Last application no later than peak bloom. Thorough coverage is essential. See label for livestock feeding restrictions.
• laminarim (Vacciplant): 14.0 to 22.0 fl oz/A; PHI od, REI 4h, Group P04. See label for application methods and restrictions. 
• penthiopyrad (Fontelis): 16.0 to 30.0 fl oz/A for succulent, 16.0 to 20.0 fl oz/A for dry; PHI 0d succulent, 21d dry, REI 12h, Group 7. Maximum 2 applications per year. See label for specific application methods.
• thiophanate-methyl (Topsin 4.5 FL): 20 to 30 oz/A; PHI 14d snap and lima, 28d dry, REI 24h succulent and 72h dry, Group 1. Rate is dependent on crop phenology; see label for details.
• Trichoderma asperellum (ICC 012) + T. gamsii (ICC 080) (Biotam 2.0): See label for in-furrow, drench, and broadcast rates; REI 1h, Group BM02.
• Ulocladium oudemansii (U3 strain) (BotryStop^OG): 2.0 to 4.0 lbs/A; REI 4h, Group BM02. Begin application when conditions are conducive to disease development.

Bacterial Diseases (Pseudomonas spp. and Xanthomonas spp.)

Bacterial leaf diseases include: bacterial bean blight (Xanthomonas campestris pv. phaseoli), bacterial brown spot or rot (Pseudomonas syringae pv. syringae), and halo blight (Pseudomonas syringae pv. phaseolicola). Plant disease-free seed from a reliable supplier. Eliminate wild cherries and lilacs near bean fields. Do not cultivate or harvest when plants are wet. Use a 2-year rotation. Plow under infected debris in fall.

• copper hydroxide (Kocide 3000): 0.5 to 1.25 lb/A; PHI 0d, REI 48h, Group M01. Do not apply with a spray solution with a pH less than 6.5 or tank mix with Aliette. An organic formulation is available. 
• laminarim (Vacciplant): 14.0 to 22.0 fl oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Group P04. See label for application methods and restrictions. 
• Reynoutria sachalinensis extract (Regalia^OG): 1.0 to 4.0 qt/A ground application; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Group P05. Apply to ensure thorough coverage. See label for specific application methods and instructions.

Bean Common Mosaic Virus (BCMV)

In addition to mosaic and lesions of the foliage, BCMV can also cause blackened roots. Several different strains of the virus are recognized; the symptoms and host ranges vary according to the strain. The virus can be seedborne and is transmitted by at least 12 species of aphids in a nonpersistent manner. Resistant varieties are readily available and constitute the most reliable means of control. Seed treatment, insecticides, and roguing of diseased plants are of little value.

Bean Yellow Mosaic Virus (BYMV)

Many strains of this virus are known. Symptoms of BYMV are easily confused with BCMV. However, BYMV is not seedborne and unlike BCMV, BYMV is spread in a persistent manner by more than 20 species of aphids. Entire plantings may become infected, resulting in substantial yield losses. Disease outbreaks are often correlated with the presence of virus-source plants such as sweet clover, white clover, crimson clover, and Gladiolus spp. Since the virus overwinters in legumes such as clover and vetch, beans should be planted at least 800 ft away from these species. Insecticides applied early will reduce spread. Control weeds. Plant BYMV resistant varieties (see Varieties).

NOTES: For the insecticides listed below, one product trade name and formulation is provided for each active ingredient (AI) as an example of rates, preharvest interval (PHI), restricted entry interval (REI), and special instructions. In many cases, there are other products available with the same AI. Please see Table 27 and Insecticides Alphabetically Listed by Trade Name for more information on these insecticides.

The designation (Bee: L, M, or H) indicates a bee toxicity rating of low, moderate, or high. See the Protecting Honeybees and Native Pollinators section for more details.

The symbol * indicates a product is a restricted use pesticide. See Pesticide Safety for more details.

The symbol ^OG indicates a product is listed by the Organic Materials Review Institute (OMRI) as approved for use in organic production. See the Organic Certification section for more details.

Aphids

Several species of aphids may probe, feed, and cause direct damage or transmit disease in dry or snap beans: soybean aphid, bean aphid, pea aphid, yellow clover aphid, and green peach aphid. Soybean aphid (Aphis glycines) reproduces in soybeans but not green or dry beans; however, this species can colonize, inflict feeding injury, and transmit viruses to green and dry beans. Soybean aphid is found on beans in New York and the Midwest, with higher pressure in hot, dry summers. This species has been less important in New England but could increase in importance, especially in soybean production areas. The other listed aphid species are all present in New England. Viral diseases can be spread by aphids; however, using insecticides to control aphids is not effective in controlling these viruses. Generally, aphids in beans are controlled by natural enemies. Scout for aphids on the undersides of leaves or terminal shoots. Treat only if aphids are well distributed throughout the field (50% or more of terminals with 5 or more aphids), natural enemies are lacking, and the population is increasing. Use selective products for other pests to conserve natural enemies of aphids and to protect bees. Systemic insecticide may be used as a seed treatment or at planting. Avoid planting beans near alfalfa or soybean. See Peppers for more information about green peach aphid.

• acephate (Orthene 97): 0.5 to 1 lb/A; PHI 14d dried, 1d fresh lima, REI 24h, Bee: H, Group 1B. Not labelled for succulent green beans (snap), except those grown for seed. Not labeled for control of black bean aphid.
• acetamiprid (Assail 30 SG): 2.5 to 5.3 oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Bee: M, Group 4A. Edible-podded and succulent shelled peas and beans only.
• alpha-cypermethrin (Fastac* EC): 3.2 to 3.8 oz/A; PHI 1d succulent shelled or edible-podded, 21d dried, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A.
• bifenthrin (Brigade* 2EC): 2.1 to 6.4 oz/A; PHI 3d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A. Succulent beans only.
• Chromobacterium subtsugae strain PRAA4-1 (Grandevo^OG): 2 to 3 lb/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: M, Group UN.
• dimethoate (Dimethoate 4EC): 8 to 16 oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 48h, Bee: H, Group 1B.
• esfenvalerate (Asana* XL): 5.8 to 9.6 oz/A; PHI 3d fresh, 21d dry, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A. For pea aphid only.
• flonicamid (Beleaf): 2.8 oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Bee: L, Group 29.
• flupyradifurone (Sivanto): 7 to 14 oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 4h, Bee: L, Group 4D.
• gamma-cyhalothrin (Declare*): 1.02 to 1.54 oz/A; PHI 7d fresh; 21d dry, REI 24h, Bee: H, Group 3A.
• imidacloprid (Admire Pro): 1.2 oz/A foliar, 7 to 10.5 oz/A soil; PHI 7d foliar, 21d soil, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 4A.
• Isaria fumosorosea Apopka Strain 97 (PFR-97 20% WDG^OG): 1 to 2 lb/A foliar; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: M, Group UN.
• lambda-cyhalothrin (Warrior* II): 1.28 to 1.92 oz/A; PHI 7d fresh, 21d dry, REI 24h, Bee: H, Group 3A.
• methomyl (Lannate* LV): 1.5 to 3 pt/A; PHI 1d fresh at up to 1.5 pt/A, 3d for over 1.5 pt/A, 14 d dry, REI 48h, Bee: H, Group 1A.
• petroleum oil (Suffoil X^OG): 1 to 2 gal/100 gal water; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: L.
• pyrethrin (PyGanic EC5.0^OG): 4.5 to 17 oz/A, 0.25 to 0.50 oz/gal, 3 gal/1000 sq ft in greenhouse for backpack sprayers; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: M, Group 3A.
• sodium tetraborohydrate decahydrate (Prev-AM): 100 oz/100 gal; REI 12h, Bee: L, Group 25. Do not apply in midday sun or mix with copper, sulfur, or oils.
• sulfoxaflor (Transform WG): 0.75 to 1 oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 24h, Bee: H, Group 4C. Do not apply between 3 days prior to bloom until after petal fall.
• thiamethoxam (Cruiser 5FS): 1.28 oz/100 lb of seed; REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 4. Systemic seed treatment. For early-season protection from aphids. Use standard slurry seed treatment equipment which provides uniform coverage of seed.

Cutworms

Cutworm larvae may be dull gray, brown, or black and may be striped or spotted, depending on the species. Another distinguishing quality is their act of rolling into a tight C-shape if disturbed. The two major species are the variegated cutworm (Peridroma saucia), which feeds on lower leaves and petioles, and the black cutworm (Agrotis ipsilon), which largely feeds at the soil surface and below on roots and lower stems. The black cutworm will occasionally feed on leaves. Both are nocturnal feeders and take refuge under the soil surface during the day. Cutworms find weedy or minimum-tillage fields especially attractive sites to lay their eggs. Seedlings are most affected; look for cut stems or foliage feeding. Scout across the field, as injury may be limited to a few small areas. Control is warranted if overall plant stand or survival is threatened. For best results, make insecticide applications between midnight and dawn while cutworms are feeding aboveground. See cutworms in the Pepper and Tomato (Outdoor) sections for more information on black and variegated cutworms.

• acephate (Orthene 97): 0.5 to 1 lb/A; PHI 14d dry, 1d fresh lima, REI 24h, Bee: H, Group 1B. Not labelled for succulent green beans (snap), except those grown for seed.
• alpha-cypermethrin (Fastac* EC): 1.3 to 3.8 oz/A; PHI 1d succulent shelled or edible-podded, 21d dried, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A.
• bifenthrin (Brigade* 2EC): 2.1 to 6.4 oz/A; PHI 3d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A. Succulent beans only.
• carbaryl (Sevin XLR Plus): 1 to 1.5 qt/A; PHI 3d fresh, 21d dry, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 1A. Most effective on species which feed on upper portions of the plant. Not labelled for succulent and shelled beans.
• chlorantraniliprole & lambda-cyhalothrin (Besiege*): 5 to 8 oz/A; PHI 7d edible-podded and succulent shelled, 21d dried shelled, REI 24h, Bee: H, Groups 28 & 3A.
• esfenvalerate (Asana* XL): 5.8 to 9.6 oz/A; PHI 3d fresh, 21d dry, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A. On snap beans, use only as a seedling spray. No restriction on dry beans.
• lambda-cyhalothrin (Warrior* II): 0.96 to 1.60 oz/A; PHI 7d fresh, 21d dry, REI 24h, Bee: H, Group 3A.
• spinosad (Seduce^OG): 20 to 44 lb/A or 0.5 to1 lb/1000 sq ft; PHI 3d, REI 4h, Bee: M, Group 5. Spread bait on soil around plants.
• zeta-cypermethrin (Mustang*): 1.28 to 4 oz/A; PHI 1d fresh, 21d dry, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A.

European Corn Borer (Ostrinia nubilalis), Corn Earworm (Helicoverpa zea), and Cabbage Looper (Trichoplusia ni)

These caterpillars are occasional pests of bean in New England. See Sweet Corn for more details on European corn borer (ECB) and corn earworm (CEW), and Cabbage and Other Brassica Crops for more information on cabbage looper (CL).

In beans, ECB eggs are laid under leaves, and larvae feed in stems and then bore into pods. If a preferred host, such as corn, is not available, eggs will be laid in beans. This may occur where early beans are planted after a corn crop the previous year, or where late beans are near a maturing corn crop at the emergence of a second ECB generation. The most susceptible period in snap beans is from the bud stage (about 26 days before harvest) to pod formation (12 days before harvest), and in dry beans is for the 4 weeks preceding the onset of pod drying. Infestation depends on the synchrony of ECB flight and bean stage. The most effective timing for a single insecticide application is at bloom or pod formation. The most practical and effective control for ECB is to avoid planting early beans where corn was grown the previous year or late beans near corn where ECB may emerge. Monitor moth activity in corn using pheromone traps or refer to pest alert networks to detect peak or high flights. Scout if flights are high during the susceptible period of bean growth, looking for wilted or chewed trifoliate leaves, larvae, or pod injury. There is no set threshold for treatment.

CEW or CL may lay eggs in beans when migratory flights result in very high populations. CEW or CL caterpillars feed on leaves, buds, flowers, and pods, often damaging the beans. CEW and CL feeding holes may be larger than ECB entry holes. The impact of these caterpillars on overall plant growth and yield is minimal, but the tolerance for caterpillar infestation is extremely low in processing beans where larval contamination must be avoided.

• acephate (Orthene 97): 0.5 to 1 lb/A for CL; 0.75 to 1 lb/A for ECB and CEW; PHI 14d dry, 1d fresh lima, REI 24h, Bee: H, Group 1B. Not labelled for succulent green beans (snap), except those grown for seed.
• alpha-cypermethrin (Fastac* EC): 2.7 to 3.8 oz/A ECB and CEW, 3.2 to 3.8 CL; PHI 1d succulent shelled or edible-podded, 21d dried, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A.
• Bacillus thuringiensis aizawai (XenTari^OG): 0.5 to 1.5 lb/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: L, Group 11. Must be ingested; apply in evening or early morning, before larvae are actively feeding. Adherence and weather-fastness will improve with use of an approved spreader-sticker. Use high rate at cool temperatures. For resistance management, may be rotated with Bt kurstaki products (Dipel). Cabbage looper only.
• Bacillus thuringiensis kurstaki (Dipel DF^OG): 0.5 to 2 lb/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: L, Group 11. Must be ingested; apply in evening or early morning, before larvae are actively feeding. Adherence and weather-fastness will improve with use of an approved spreader-sticker. Use high rate at cool temperatures. For resistance management, may be rotated with Bt aizawai products for Cabbage looper only (XenTari). 
• bifenthrin (Brigade* 2EC): 2.1 to 6.4 oz/A; PHI 3d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A. Succulent beans only.
• carbaryl (Sevin XLR Plus): 0.5 to 1.5 qt/A for CEW, 1-1.5 qt/A for ECB; PHI 3d fresh, 21d dry, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 1A. Not for cabbage looper. Not labelled for succulent or shelled beans.
• chlorantraniliprole (Coragen): 5-7.5 oz/A soil at planting, 3.5-7.5 oz/A foliar; PHI 1d, REI 4h, Bee: L, Group 28. Soil application for ECB and CEW only.
• chlorantraniliprole & lambda-cyhalothrin (Besiege*): 6 to 10 oz/A; PHI 7d edible-podded and succulent shelled, 21d dried shelled, REI 24h, Bee: H, Groups 28 & 3A. 
• Chromobacterium subtsugae strain PRAA4-1 (Grandevo^OG): 1 to 3 lb/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: M, Group UN. Corn earworm and cabbage looper only.
• esfenvalerate (Asana* XL): 5.8 to 9.6 oz/A; PHI 3d fresh, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A. Not for ECB on dry beans.
• gamma-cyhalothrin (Declare*): 1.02 to 1.54 oz/A; PHI 7d fresh, 21d dry, REI 24h, Bee: H, Group 3A.
• lambda-cyhalothrin (Warrior* II): 1.28 to 1.92 oz/A; PHI 7d snap, 21d dry, REI 24h, Bee: H, Group 3A.
• methomyl (Lannate* LV): 1.5 to 3 pt/A; PHI 1d fresh at up to 1.5 pt/A, 3d for over 1.5 pt/A, 14d dry, REI 48h, Bee: H, Group 1A. Ovicide and larvicide for ECB. 
• methoxyfenozide (Intrepid 2F): 4 to 16 oz/A for ECB and CL, 10 to 16 oz/A for CEW; PHI 7d, REI 4h, Bee: L, Group 18. Use lower rates when plants are small or infestations are light for ECB and CL. Suppression only for corn earworm.
• pyrethrin (PyGanic EC5.0^OG): 4.5 to 17 oz/A; 0.25 to 0.50 oz/gal, 3 gal/1000 sq ft in greenhouse for backpack sprayers; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: M, Group 3A. Not for ECB.
• spinosad (Entrust SC^OG): 3 to 6 oz/A ECB, 4 to 6 oz/A CEW & CL; PHI 3d succulent, 28d dried, REI 4h, Bee: M, Group 5.
• zeta-cypermethrin (Mustang*): 2.72 to 4 oz/A for ECB and CEW, 3.2 to 4 oz/A for CL; PHI 1d fresh, 21d dry, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A.

Garden Springtails (Bourletiella hortensis)

Springtails are tiny (1/16") blue-grey insects that seem to hop like fleas. These insects are important for decomposing dead plant matter. Occasionally, high populations feed on the leaves of seedlings, producing tiny pits in the leaf surfaces that resemble flea beetle damage. Plants may die of excessive water loss. Populations can be extreme in fields high in organic matter, with reduced-till systems, and with soils that crack when drying. Use clean cultivation and spot-treat areas where damage occurs. Most broad-spectrum insecticides registered for cutworms or leafhoppers will also control springtails.

Japanese Beetles (Popillia japonica)

Beetles migrate from turf or pastures starting in July and skeletonize leaves.

• bifenthrin (Brigade* 2EC): 2.1 to 6.4 oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A.
• Isaria fumosorosea Apopka Strain 97 (PFR-97 20% WDG^OG): 1 to 2 lb/A (soil applications only); PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: M, Group UN.
• pyrethrin (PyGanic EC5.0^OG): 4.5 to 17 oz/A; 0.25 to 0.50 oz/gal, 3 gal/1000 sq ft in greenhouse for backpack sprayers; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: M, Group 3A.

Mexican Bean Beetle (Epilachna varivestis)

Mexican bean beetles (MBB) most often grow to damaging populations where snap beans are grown in the same or adjacent fields over successive years. Lima beans and dry beans are also susceptible, and MBB may feed in dry and edible-pod soybeans but are less likely to thrive on this host. Adults are copper-colored, oval ladybeetles with black spots, 1/4-1/3" long. Eggs are orange to yellow in color and laid on the underside of leaves in clusters of 40 to 50. Larvae are yellow with rows of branched, black-tipped spines. The pupa is attached to the leaf, lacks spines, and is yellow to yellow-orange. Adults spend the winter in hedgerows and move into fields in June. Adults and larvae skeletonize leaves and may cause pod damage if numbers are high. There are 1-3 generations per year in New England, with newly emerging adults moving to the next succession planting of snap beans. A life cycle may be completed in 30-40 days during the summer. Populations are usually less abundant on early plantings and may not build to damaging levels until August. Prompt destruction of crop residue after harvest helps lower overwintering populations. Avoid continuous production of beans in the same or adjacent fields year after year. Annual releases of the larval parasitoid Pediobius foveolatus, timed to coincide with egg hatch, can help control beetle larvae. The wasp will not survive our winters, so it must be re-released each year, but it reproduces throughout the summer and moves into later plantings. Parasitized larvae serve as pupal cases for the wasp, remaining on the leaf and turning brown. Scout for MBB by searching plants for adults, eggs, and larvae, and assessing damage. Treat when defoliation exceeds 20% pre-bloom or 10% during pod development. The presence of adults, eggs, and larvae indicates the potential for further damage. Be sure to get coverage of the lower leaf surfaces. 

• acephate (Orthene 97): 0.5 to 1 lb/A; PHI 14d dry, 1d fresh lima, REI 24h, Bee: H, Group 1B. Not labelled for succulent green beans (snap), except those grown for seed.
• acetamiprid (Assail 30 SG): 2.5 to 5.3 oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Bee: M, Group 4A.
• alpha-cypermethrin (Fastac* EC): 2.7 to 3.8 oz/A; PHI 1d succulent shelled or edible-podded, 21d dried, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A.
• carbaryl (Sevin XLR Plus): 0.5 to 1 qt/A; PHI 3d fresh, 21d dry, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 1A. Not labelled for succulent and shelled beans.
• chlorantraniliprole & lambda-cyhalothrin (Besiege*): 5 to 8 oz/A; PHI 7d edible-podded and succulent shelled, 21d dried, REI 24h, Bee: H, Groups 28 & 3A.
• dimethoate (Dimethoate 4EC): 8 to 16 oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 48h, Bee: H, Group 1B.
• esfenvalerate (Asana* XL): 2.9 to 5.8 oz/A; PHI 3d fresh, 21d dry, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A.
• kaolin (Surround WP^OG): 25 to 50 lb/A or 0.25 to 0.5 lb/gal; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: L. Suppression and repellence only. Use on seedlings and young plants, prior to pod set, to avoid unsightly residue. Generally compatible as a tank mix with other insecticides.
• lambda-cyhalothrin (Warrior* II): 0.96 to 1.60 oz/A; PHI 7d fresh, 21d dry, REI 24h, Bee: H, Group 3A.
• methomyl (Lannate* LV): 0.75 to 3 pt/A; PHI 1d fresh at up to 1.5 pt/A, 3d for over 1.5 pt/A, 14d dry, REI 48h, Bee: H, Group 1A.
• petroleum oil (Suffoil X^OG): 1 to 2 gal/100 gal water; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: L. For beetle larvae only.
• pyrethrin (PyGanic EC5.0^OG): 4.5 to 17 oz/A; 0.25 to 0.50 oz/gal, 3 gal/1000 sq ft in greenhouse for backpack sprayers; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: M, Group 3A.
• thiamethoxam (Cruiser 5FS): 1.28 oz/100 lb of seed; REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 4. Systemic seed treatment. Use standard slurry seed treatment equipment which provides uniform coverage of seed. For early-season protection.
• zeta-cypermethrin (Mustang*): 2.72 to 4 oz/A; PHI 1d fresh, 21d dry, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A. 

Potato Leafhopper (Empoasca fabae)

Adults are light yellow-green, 1/8" long, and wedge-shaped (wider at the head), while nymphs are bright green, flatter and wider than adults and move sideways in a crab-like fashion. Adults lay eggs on stems, where nymphs hatch, feed, and pass through five instars before becoming adults. The presence of nymphs indicates an established population. Both adults and nymphs cause injury by injecting a toxin as they feed through piercing-sucking mouthparts. Potato leafhoppers (PLH) overwinter in Gulf states and move north with storm fronts into the central states and then into New England on winds from the west. Arrival time varies with year and location, ranging from late May to late June. Low levels of leafhopper feeding can severely damage plants, especially at the seedling stage. Signs of injury begin with leaf veins turning pale, followed by yellowing or browning of areas of the leaf or leaf tips, known as "hopperburn". Leaves become brown, curl up, and die. Plants and roots may be stunted and yields reduced or lost. This process may take less than a week. PLH may also vector many viruses. Scout using a sweep net or observing adults flying when plants are shaken. Nymphs can be counted on the undersides of leaves. Seedling beans should be treated if they have 2 adults per foot of row. From the third trifoliate leaf to the bud stage, treat when PLH exceeds 1 nymph/leaflet or 5 adults per foot of row, and repeat application in 7-10 days, if necessary. Be sure to treat lower leaf surfaces. In fields where a systemic seed treatment (e.g. Cruiser) was used, foliar treatment should not be needed before bloom.

• acephate (Orthene 97): 0.5 to 1 lb/A; PHI 14d dry, 1d fresh lima, REI 24h, Bee: H, Group 1B. Not labelled for succulent green beans (snap), except those grown for seed.
• acetamiprid (Assail 30 SG): 2.5 to 5.3 oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Bee: M, Group 4A. Edible-podded and succulent shelled peas and beans only.
• alpha-cypermethrin (Fastac* EC): 2.7 to 3.8 oz/A; PHI 1d succulent shelled or edible-podded, 21d dried, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A.
• bifenthrin (Brigade* 2EC): 1.6 to 6.4 oz/A; PHI 3d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A. Succulent beans only.
• carbaryl (Sevin XLR Plus): 1 to 1.5 qt/A; PHI 3d fresh, 21d dry, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 1A. Not labelled for succulent and shelled beans.
• chlorantraniliprole & lambda-cyhalothrin (Besiege*): 6 to 10 oz/A; PHI 7d edible-podded and succulent shelled, 21d dried shelled, REI 24h, Bee: H, Groups 28 & 3A.
• Chromobacterium subtsugae strain PRAA4-1 (Grandevo^OG): 2 to 3 lb/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: M, Group UN.
• dimethoate (Dimethoate 4EC): 8 to 16 oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 48h, Bee: H, Group 1B.
• esfenvalerate (Asana* XL): 5.8 to 9.6 oz/A; PHI 3d fresh, 21d dry, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A.
• flupyradifurone (Sivanto): 7 to 14 oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 4h, Bee: L, Group 4D.
• gamma-cyhalothrin (Declare*): 1.02 to 1.54 oz/A; PHI 7d fresh, 21d dry, REI 24h, Bee: H, Group 3A.
• imidacloprid (Admire Pro): 1.2 oz/A foliar, 7 to 10.5 oz/A soil; PHI 7d foliar, 21d soil, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 4A.
• kaolin (Surround WP^OG): 25 to 50 lb/A or 0.25 to 0.5 lb/gal; PH 0d, REI 4h, Bee: L. Suppression and repellence only. Use on seedlings and young plants prior to pod set to avoid unsightly residue. Generally compatible as a tank mix with other insecticides.
• lambda-cyhalothrin (Warrior* II): 1.28 to 1.92 oz/A; PHI 7d fresh, 21d dry, REI 24h, Bee: H, Group 3A.
• methomyl (Lannate* LV): 0.75 to 3 pt/A; PHI 1d fresh at up to 1.5 pt/A, 3d for over 1.5 pt/A, 14d dry, REI 48h, Bee: H, Group 1A.
• paraffinic oil (Organic JMS Stylet-Oil^OG): 3 to 6 qt/100 gal water; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: L.
• petroleum oil (Suffoil X^OG): 1 to 2 gal/100 gal water; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: L.
• pyrethrin (PyGanic EC5.0^OG): 4.5 to 17 oz/A; 0.25 to 0.50 oz/gal, 3 gal/1000 sq ft in greenhouse for backpack sprayers; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: M, Group 3A.
• thiamethoxam (Cruiser 5FS): 1.28 oz/100 lb of seed; REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 4. Systemic seed treatment. Use standard slurry seed treatment equipment which provides uniform coverage of seed. For early-season protection.
• zeta-cypermethrin (Mustang*): 2.72 to 4 oz/A; PHI 1d fresh, 21d dry, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A.

Seedcorn Maggot (Delia platura)

Seedcorn maggot larvae feed on the seeds and early seedlings of large-seeded crops such as corn, beans, and peas as well as early seedlings of spinach, onions, brassicas, tomato, cucurbits, and other crops. They are the first maggot flies to become active in spring, about 1-2 weeks earlier than onion or cabbage maggot. The adults look like small, gray houseflies with a slightly hump-backed shape. The seedcorn maggot larva is yellow-white, up to 1/4" long, legless, and has a wedge-shaped head. Pupae are oblong, brown, and about 4-5 mm long. The seedcorn maggot fly overwinters in the pupal stage, in the soil where they feed in the fall. In early spring, the adults emerge and lay eggs on the soil surface. Growing degree days, using a base temperature of 39°F (4°C), can be used to predict peak emergence of the first generation (360ºF GDD or 200ºC GDD). Flies are attracted to volatiles released from freshly tilled soil, as well as to buried cover crop residues, rotting manure, compost, organic surface residues (as are found in reduced-till systems), and organic amendments such as fish, soybean, or cottonseed meal. Previously injured or diseased plants may also attract egg-laying. The eggs hatch within 2-4 days at soil temperatures of 60°F and 7-9 days at 41-45°F. Larvae burrow downward in search of food and penetrate seeds as the seed coat splits open. Though there are 2-4 generations per year, it is the first generation that causes the most damage. The first symptoms are usually poor emergence of seeds or wilting of transplants that have lost their roots to feeding. Look for maggots and feeding tunnels inside seeds or stems to help distinguish damage from wireworm feeding or damping-off. Crops that are planted in wet soil, or soil that is too cool to support quick germination and seedling growth, are especially susceptible to damage. Wait until soil conditions favor crop emergence and growth to help seeds and seedlings avoid or quickly recover from injury. Plant shallowly to promote rapid emergence. Where possible, incorporate cover crops, manure, or compost several weeks before seeding. Put earliest plantings in lighter, well-drained, sandy soils that warm up quickly. Among bean varieties, those with a dark seed coat sustain less injury than white varieties. Use row covers to exclude flies, except where flies may have fed in fall cover or vegetable crops and could emerge under the covers. Preventive chemical treatments include commercially applied systemic seed treatments and in-furrow applications of insecticides. Rescue treatments are not effective. If there is enough damage to warrant replanting, wait at least 5 days if maggots are 1/4" long; if they are smaller than that, wait at least 10 days to make sure they have pupated and will not damage the new seeds.

• phorate (Thimet* 20-G): 4.5 to 7 oz/1000 ft of row; PHI 60d, REI 48h, Bee: H, Group 1B. Apply granules in band over row and lightly incorporate. DO NOT place granules in direct contact with seed. Granules must be incorporated into the soil. Do not feed treated crop residue to livestock.
• thiamethoxam (Cruiser 5FS): 1.28 oz/100 lb of seed; REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 4. Systemic seed treatment. Use standard slurry seed treatment equipment which provides uniform coverage of seed. For early-season protection.

Slugs

Damage appears as shredded foliage or holes in fruit. Look for silvery slime trails on leaves or turn over soil clods or debris to find slugs during daylight hours. Grow plants away from moist, shaded habitats, use clean cultivation, control weeds, hand pick or crush slugs, or scatter baits on the ground near infested plants. See the Cabbage section for more information on slugs.

• iron phosphate (Sluggo: Slug and Snail Bait^OG): 20 to 44 lb/A; PHI 0d, REI 0h, Bee: L, Group 9B. Apply around perimeter, scatter around base of plants, or band down rows. Apply to moist soil in the evening.

Tarnished Plant Bug (Lygus lineolaris)

See Lettuce for information about tarnished plant bug.

• acephate (Orthene 97): 0.5 to 1 lb/A; PHI 14d dry, 1d fresh lima, REI 24h, Bee: H, Group 1B. Not permitted for use on succulent green beans (snap), except those grown for seed.
• alpha-cypermethrin (Fastac* EC): 2.7 to 3.8 oz/A; PHI 1d succulent shelled or edible-podded, 21d dried, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A.
• bifenthrin (Brigade* 2EC): 2.1 to 6.4 oz/A; PHI 3d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A. Succulent beans only.
• carbaryl (Sevin XLR Plus): 1 to 1.5 qt/A; PHI 3d fresh, 21d dry, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 1A. Use on succulent and shelled beans prohibited.
• chlorantraniliprole & lambda-cyhalothrin (Besiege*): 6 to 10 oz/A; PHI 7d edible-podded and succulent shelled, 21d dried shelled, REI 24h, Bee: H, Groups 28 & 3A.
• Isaria fumosorosea Apopka Strain 97 (PFR-97 20% WDG^OG): 1 to 2 lb/A foliar; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: M, Group UN.
• lambda-cyhalothrin (Warrior* II): 1.28 to 1.92 oz/A; PHI 7d fresh, 21d dry, REI 24h, Bee: H, Group 3A.
• methomyl (Lannate* LV): 1.5 to 3 pt/A; PHI 1d fresh at up to 1.5 pt/A, 3d for over 1.5 pt/A, 14d dry, REI 48h, Bee: H, Group 1A.
• pyrethrin (PyGanic EC5.0^OG): 4.5 to 17 oz/A; 0.25 to 0.50 oz/gal, 3 gal/1000 sq ft in greenhouse for backpack sprayers; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: M, Group 3A.
• sodium tetraborohydrate decahydrate (Prev-AM): 50 oz/100 gal; REI 12h, Bee: L, Group 25. Do not apply in midday sun or mix with copper, sulfur, or oils.
• sulfoxaflor (Transform WG): 1.5 to 2.25 oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 24h, Bee: H, Group 4C. Do not apply between 3 days prior to bloom and until after petal fall.
• zeta-cypermethrin (Mustang*): 2.72 to 4 oz/A; PHI 1d fresh, 21d dry, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A.

Two-spotted Spider Mite (Tetranychus urticae)

Two-spotted spider mite (TSSM), also known as red spider mite, outbreaks are favored by hot, dry weather and may be triggered by the use of broad-spectrum insecticides that kill the numerous natural enemies of mites. TSSM affect dry, lima, and snap beans. Infestations begin on the lower portions of the plant and move upward. Watch for white speckling and bronzing on the upper surface of leaves (veins may remain green) and grayish webbing on the undersurface around leaf veins. Use a 10X hand lens to see mites. Avoid early-season, broad-spectrum insecticide applications for other pests; use selective products whenever possible. Registered products for mites on beans may not provide complete control of the pest. With most miticides, use 2 applications approximately 5-7 days apart to help control immature mites that were in the egg stage and protected during the first application. Coverage of the lower surface of the leaves is important. If further applications are needed, switch to an alternate resistance group to help prevent or delay resistance. For more information on TSSM management, see the Eggplant section.

• abamectin (Agri-Mek SC): 1.75 to 3.5 oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 6. Must be mixed with a non-ionic activator type wetting, spreading, and/or penetrating spray adjuvant. Do not use binder or sticker type adjuvant.
• acequinocyl (Kanemite 15SC): 31 fl oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Bee: L, Group 20B. 
• bifenazate (Acramite 50WS): 0.75 to 1 lb/A; PHI 3d, REI 12h, Bee: M, Group UN.
• dimethoate (Dimethoate 4EC): 8 to 16 oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 48h, Bee: H, Group 1B.
• fenpyroximate (Portal XLO): 2 pt/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Bee: L, Group 21A.
• neem oil (Trilogy^OG): 1 to 2% solution in 25 to 100 gal water/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: M, Group 18. Avoid midday applications and ensure good coverage.
• petroleum oil (Suffoil X^OG): 1 to 2 gal/100 gal water; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: L.
• sodium tetraborohydrate decahydrate (Prev-AM Ultra): 50 oz/100 gal; REI 12h, Bee: L, Group 25. Do not apply in midday sun or mix with copper, sulfur, or oils.
• sulfur (Microthiol Disperss^OG): 3 to 10 lb/A; REI 24h, Bee: L, No IRAC classification. Check for sulfur sensitivity prior to treating the whole field; some varieties may be injured by sulfur.

Weeds may develop quickly because beans are slow to establish a canopy. Use a tine-weeder or a rotary hoe if there is not too much field residue. Do not cultivate when the beans are starting to emerge as seedlings are very fragile and can easily snap. Cultivate 3-4 times when beans are 2-3 inches tall until canopy closure. Bean taproots are easily torn from the ground during imprecise mechanical cultivation. To minimize damage to plants, do not cultivate when leaves are wet or just after they have flowered.

NOTES: For the herbicides listed below, one product trade name and formulation is provided for each active ingredient along with preharvest interval (PHI), restricted entry interval (REI), resistance management group number, and example of rates and special instructions. In many cases, there are other products available with the same active ingredient. However, not all products with the same active ingredient are registered for use in a crop. Always check the product label to be sure that the crop is listed before using. 

Stale Seedbed

See Stale Seedbed Technique for information on the use of these herbicides or flaming. 

• carfentrazone (Aim EC): PHI 0d, REI 12h, Group 14. 
• glyphosate (Roundup Power Max): PHI 14d, REI 4h, Group 9. 
• paraquat (Gramoxone SL 2.0*): REI 12h or 24h, Group 22. *Restricted use: Applicators must complete an EPA-approved paraquat training every 3 years: https://www.epa.gov/pesticide-worker-safety/paraquat-dichloride-training-certified-applicators.
• pelargonic acid (Scythe): PHI 1d, REI 12h, Group 0. 

Preemergent Herbicides (before weeds germinate)

• clomazone (Command 3ME): PHI 45d, REI 12h, Group 13. Apply 6.4-10.7 oz/A per application, only 1 application allowed per year. For lima beans, apply 6 oz/A per application, up to 2 applications allowed per year, a minimum of 14 days apart. Do not exceed 10.7 oz/A per year. Rate based on soil texture, use lower rate on coarse soils. Can be applied to the soil surface after seeding or transplanting but before crop emergence, in a minimum of 10 gal/A of spray. Be sure to place seeds or roots below the treated soil when planting. Some temporary crop injury (partial whitening of leaf or stem tissue) may be visible after crop emergence. Complete recovery will occur from minor early injury without affecting yield or earliness.
• dimethenamid (Outlook): REI 12h, Group 15. For dry beans only. Apply 7-14 oz/A, up to 2 applications allowed per year, a minimum of 14 days apart. Do not exceed 21 oz/A per year. Has not been tested on all varieties, crop tolerance should be verified before treating the entire field. If applying as a split application, apply 10-14 oz/A at the first application and the remaining 7-11 oz/A at the second application. Application rate depends on soil texture and organic matter content. If split applications are less than 14 days apart, the maximum rate is dependent on soil texture. Apply to the soil up to 45 days before planting. If applying 15-45 days before planting, use a higher rate and apply to the soil as part of a split-application program where the second application is made after planting. If applying less than 15 days before planting or after planting but before crop emergence, incorporate 1-2” into the soil with shallow cultivation or with water through irrigation or rainfall. Can also apply to the soil surface without incorporating when the crop is between the 1st-3rd trifoliate stage. If soil is saturated for an extended period, temporary growth suppression, spotting, or browning may occur.
• EPTC (Eptam 7E): PHI 45d, REI 12h, Group 15. Apply 3.5-4.5 pts/A per application. Can be applied just before or immediately after planting, or as a directed spray to the base of the plant at layby before pods start to form. Can also be applied as a subsurface application at 2.25 pts/A before planting or at 1.75 pts/A at layby (as long as a clean cultivation has been made first). Has not been tested on all varieties; crop tolerance should be verified before treating the entire field. Lima beans and green beans grown on sandy soil may be less tolerant.
• ethalfluralin (Sonalan HFP): REI 24h, Group 3. Apply 1.5-4.5 pts/A per application. Do not exceed 2-4.5 p/A per year. Rate based on soil texture and weed composition. Apply and incorporate 2-3” into the soil in the fall or spring before planting. Can also apply immediately after tillage and planting. Incorporate with 0.5-1” of water through irrigation or rainfall. The maximum application rate when incorporating with overhead irrigation incorporation is 3.7 pts/A and with rainfall is 2 pts/A.
• linuron (Lorox DF): REI 24h or 48h, Group 5. Apply up to 2 lbs/A per application, only 1 application per year. Apply after seeding but before crop emergence. Incorporate into the soil with water through irrigation or rainfall.
• pendimethalin (Prowl H2O): REI 24h, Group 3. Apply 2-3 pt/A per application, only 1 application per year. Rate based on soil texture. Apply in the fall or spring before seeding and incorporate 2-3" into the soil.
• s-metolachlor (Dual Magnum): REI 24h, Group 15. Apply 1-2 pts/A per application, multiple applications allowed per year, a minimum of 14 days apart. Do not exceed 2 pts/A per year. Rate based on application timing, soil texture, and organic matter content. Apply up to 14 days before planting and incorporate 2” into the soil or apply to the soil surface just after seeding before crop emerges. Can also apply after the 1st trifoliate stage of bean growth although leaf spotting may occur. Use of tank mixes, where the rate of metolachlor could be lowered, will decrease the likelihood of crop injury. Risk increases on light-textured soils and under wet conditions.
• sulfentrazone (Aquesta 4F): REI 12h, Group 14. Apply 2.25-8 oz/A per application, only 1 application allowed per year. Rate based on soil texture, organic matter, soil pH, and application timing. Apply to soil surface in the fall or spring from 60 days prior to planting up to 3 days after planting (if seed furrow is completely closed and if seedlings have not broken the soil furrow). If applying in the fall, do not incorporate into the soil. If applying in the spring 3 weeks prior to planting, use a higher application rate. Wait a minimum of 7 days after application before planting in coarse-textured soil with less than 1.5% organic matter. If dry conditions persist after application, a shallow incorporation may be needed (less than 2” deep).
• trifluralin (Treflan HFP): REI 12h, Group 3. Apply 1-2 pts/A per application, only 1 application allowed per year. Rate based on soil texture, percent organic matter, rainfall, and type of bean. Incorporate 2-3” into the soil within 24 hours of application and a second time in the opposite direction for best results. Take care not to bring untreated soil to the soil surface during re-incorporation.

Pre- and Postemergent Herbicides

• formesafen (Reflex): PHI 45d for dry beans 30d for snap beans, REI 24h, Group 14. Apply 1.25 pts/A per application, up to 2 applications allowed per year. Do not exceed 1.25 pts/A per year. Applications can only be made on alternate years. Can be applied to the soil before or after planting or when beans have at least 1 fully expanded trifoliate leaf. Some bronzing may occur but should not affect yield.
• halosulfuron (Sandea): PHI 30d, REI 12h, Group 2. Apply 0.5-1 oz/A per application. Do not exceed 2 oz/A per year, but only 1 oz/A per crop cycle. Rates vary based on crop, application timing, and soil texture. Has not been tested on all varieties, crop tolerance should be verified before treating the entire field. Can be applied after seeding and before soil cracking, or for succulent beans, apply before planting and incorporate 2” into the soil. Can cause temporary stunting in succulent beans. Can also apply when plants have 1-3 trifoliate leaves for dry bean and 2-4 trifoliate leaves for succulent beans, but before flowering. Make only 1 broadcast application per season. Directed sprays can limit crop injury. Can also apply to row middles but avoid contact with the crop. Heavy rains following application or organophosphate use will increase the potential for crop injury.

Postemergent Herbicides (after weeds germinate)

• bentazon (Basagran): PHI 30d, REI 48h, Group 6. Apply 0.8-1.6 pts/A per application. Rate based on weed composition. Apply to actively growing weeds. Apply after the 1st trifoliate leaf has fully expanded. An effective treatment in an emergency situation to control certain broadleaf weeds and fairly effective against yellow nutsedge when 4-6" tall. Yellowing and leaf speckling may occur on leaves but should not affect yield. If applying with a crop oil concentrate, injury may increase and may reduce yields.
• carfentrazone-ethyl (Aim EC): PHI 0d, REI 12h, Group 14. Apply 0.5-2 oz/A per application, multiple applications allowed per year. Do not exceed 6.1 oz/A per year. Can be applied as a preplant burndown no later than 1 day before planting. Can also be applied to row middles of emerged crops with hooded sprayers to control emerged weeds. Prevent any spray from contacting the crop, or injury will occur. For best results, make application to actively growing weeds up to 4” tall and rosettes less than 3” across.
• clethodim (Select Max): PHI 21d, REI 24h, Group 1. Apply 9-16 oz/A per application, only 1 application per year. Add 0.25% v:v nonionic surfactant (1 qt/100 gal of spray). Can also be used as a spot-spray by mixing 0.33-0.66% (0.44 to 0.85 oz/gal) Select Max and 0.25% v:v nonionic surfactant (0.33 oz/gal). Spray to wet, but do not allow runoff of spray solution.
• fluazifop (Fusilade DX): PHI 60d, REI 12h, Group 1. Apply up to 24 oz/A per application, up to 2 applications allowed per year, a minimum of 14 days apart. Do not exceed 48 oz/A per year. Rate based on weed composition. Add either crop oil concentrate (0.5-1%, 0.5-1 gal/100 gal of spray) or nonionic surfactant (0.25-0.5%, 1-2 qt/100 gal of spray).
• glyphosate (Roundup Power Max): PHI 7d, REI 4h, Group 9. Apply 15 oz to 3.1 qts/A per application, multiple applications allowed per year. Do not exceed 5 qts/A per year. Rate based on target weed species. Can be applied during fallow intervals, prior to planting or transplanting, at planting, before crop has emerged, or as a spot treatment for dry bean varieties. Only 1 spot treatment application allowed per year. Do not combine spot treatment and preharvest applications on the same crop. Could cause injury when applied prior to transplanting or direct-seeding into plastic mulch. Remove residual product from plastic mulch with a 0.5” of water through irrigation or rainfall prior to planting.
• imazamox (Raptor): REI 4h, Group 2. Apply up to 4 oz/A per application, only 1 application per year. For dry and snap beans, apply after beans have 1 fully expanded trifoliate leaf but before bloom. For lima beans, apply when beans have 1-2 trifoliate leaves stage and weeds are less than 3” tall. A nonionic surfactant must be added to the spray solution. Apply at least 1 hour before rainfall or overhead irrigation. For snap and lima beans, may cause shortened internode length, reduce crop growth, quality, or yield. Has not been tested on all varieties, crop tolerance should be verified before treating the entire field.
• paraquat (Gramoxone SL 2.0*): REI 12h or 24h, Group 22. For snap and dry beans only. For lima beans, apply 1.3-2.7 pts/A per application. For dry beans, apply 0.8-1.3 pts/A per application. Up to 3 applications allowed per year, a minimum of 7 days apart. Do not exceed 8 pts/A per year for lima beans and 1.3 pts/A per year for dry beans. May be fatal if swallowed or inhaled. *Restricted use: Applicators must complete an EPA-approved paraquat training every 3 years: https://www.epa.gov/pesticide-worker-safety/paraquat-dichloride-training-certified-applicators.
• pelargonic acid (Scythe): PHI 1d, REI 12h, Group 0. Apply a 3-10% solution (3-10 gal per 100 gal). Rate based on target weed species. Apply in 75-200 gal/A of spray or with a spot sprayer until foliage is wet but not to the point of runoff. Repeat applications as necessary. Can apply for vegetative burndown during site preparation, prior to crop emergence from soil, as a directed and shielded spray during crop growth taking care to avoid contact with foliage and green tissue of crops, or after harvest.
• quizalofop (Assure II): PHI 30d for dry beans, 15d for snap beans, REI 12h, Group 1. Apply up to 4-12 oz/A per application, up to 2 applications allowed per year, a minimum of 7 days apart. For dry beans, do not exceed 24 oz/A per year. For snap beans do not exceed 14 oz/A per year. Rate based on weed composition and growth stage. Apply with either crop oil concentrate or non-ionic surfactant. Do not apply when crop or weeds are under drought stress.
• sethoxydim (Poast): PHI 30d dry beans, 15d snap beans, REI 12h, Group 1. Apply up to 2.5 pt/A per application, multiple applications allowed per year, a minimum 14 days apart. Do not exceed 4 pt/A per year. Use with crop oil concentrate (2.0 pt/A) or methylated seed oil (1.5 pt/A). Crop oil can cause injury under hot and humid conditions. Can also be used as a spot-spray by mixing 1-1.5% (1.3-1.9 oz/gal) Poast and 1% v:v crop oil concentrate (1.3 oz/gal). Spray to wet, but do not allow runoff of spray solution.

NOTES: For the disease control products listed below, one product trade name and formulation is provided for each active ingredient (common name) as an example of rates, preharvest interval (PHI), restricted entry interval (REI), and special instructions. In many cases, there are other products available with the same active ingredient. Please see Table 26 and Fungicides and Bactericides Alphabetically Listed by Trade Name for more information on products with the same active ingredients.

The symbol ^OG indicates a product is listed by the Organic Materials Review Institute (OMRI) as approved for use in organic production. See Organic Certification section for more details.

Leaf Spots and Blights (Alternaria, Ascochyta, Cercospora, Powdery Mildew)

Select resistant cultivars when available. Use cultural practices that minimize periods of leaf wetness such as increased plant spacing, planting in the direction of prevailing winds, and avoiding overhead irrigation. Promptly incorporate plant debris after harvest to speed decomposition.

• azoxystrobin (Quadris F): 6.0 to 15.5 fl oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Group 11. Applications of Quadris to leafy vegetables may cause phytotoxicity; proceed with caution with regards to tank mixes and adjuvants. Rates vary depending on crop and disease: see label for details. Do not alternate with other Group 11 fungicides.
• Bacillus amyloliquefaciens strain D747 (Convergence): 0.5 to 4.5 pt/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Group BM02. Beet only. See label for rates and application methods. 
• copper hydroxide (Kocide 3000): 0.75 to 2.0 lb/A. PHI 0d, REI 24h, Group M01. Beet only. Do not apply in a spray solution having a pH less than 6.5 or tank mix with Aliette.
• cyprodinil plus fludioxonil (Switch 62.5WG): 11.0 to 14.0 fl oz/A, PHI 7d (beet), 0d (Swiss chard), REI 12h, Groups 9 &12. 
• fluopyram (Velum Prime): 6.0 to 6.84 fl oz/acre; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Group 7. Labeled for powdery mildew on Swiss chard only.
• fluopyram plus trifloxystrobin (Luna Sensation): 4.0 to 5.8 fl oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Groups 7 and 11.
• fluxapyroxad plus pyraclostrobin (Merivon Xemium): 4.0 to 5.5 fl oz/A (beet), 4.0 to 11.0 fl oz/A (Swiss chard); PHI 7d (beet), 1h (Swiss chard), REI 12h. Groups 7 & 11. Use highest labeled rate for Cercospora. 
• laminarim (Vacciplant): 14.0 to 22.0 fl oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Group P04. See label for application methods and restrictions. 
• penthiopyrad (Fontelis): 16.0 to 30.0 fl oz/A (beet), 14.0 to 24.0 fl oz/A (Swiss chard); PHI 0d (beet), 3d (Swiss chard), REI 12h, Group 7.
• propiconazole (Tilt): 3.0 to 4.0 fl oz/A; PHI 14d, REI 24h, Group 3. Not labeled for powdery mildew on Swiss chard. 
• pydiflumetofen plus fludioxonil (Miravis Prime): 6.8 fl oz/A (beet), 9.2 to 13.4 fl oz/A (chard); PHI 7d (beet), 0d (Swiss chard) REI 12h, Groups 7 &12. 
• pyraclostrobin (Cabrio EG): 8.0 to 12.0 oz/A (beet), 12.0 to 16.0 oz/A (Swiss chard); PHI 0d, REI 12h, Group 11. Do not alternate with other Group 11 fungicides.
• Reynoutria sachalinensis extract (Regalia^OG): 1.0 to 4.0 qt/A (Beet); 0.5 to 4.0 qt/A (chard); PHI 0d, REI 4h, Group P05. Apply to ensure thorough coverage. See label for specific application restrictions and tank mix instructions and rates. 
• Swinglea glutinosa extract (EcoSwing^OG): 1.5 to 2 pts/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Group BM01. Beets only. Labeled for Alternaria leaf spot and powdery mildew.
• thyme oil (Guarda): See label for rate; PHI 0h, REI 0h, Group NC. See label for application methods.
• trifloxystrobin (Flint): 2.0 to 3.0 oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Group 11. Do not alternate with other Group 11 fungicides.

Downy Mildew (Peronospora farinosa f. sp. betae )

More commonly affects spinach but may also infect beets and Swiss chard. Appears as chlorotic patches on the upper surfaces of leaves and fuzzy grayish sporulation on the undersides. Use cultural practices that minimize periods of leaf wetness such as increasing plant spacing, planting in the direction of prevailing winds, and avoiding overhead irrigation. Promptly incorporate plant debris after harvest to speed decomposition. 

• ametoctradin plus dimethomorph (Zampro): 14.0 fl oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 12 h, Groups 45 & 40. Swiss chard only.
• azoxystrobin (Quadris F): 12.0 to 15.5 fl oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Group 11. Do not alternate with other Group 11 fungicides. Swiss chard only.
• Bacillus amyloliquefaciens Strain F727 (Stargus^OG): 0.5 to 4.0 qt/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Group BM02. See label for rates and application methods. Apply preventatively.
• fluopicolide (Presidio 4SC): 3.0 to 4.0 fl oz/A; PHI 2d, REI 12h, Group 43. Must be tank mixed with a fungicide with a different mode of action. Swiss chard only.
• oxathiapiprolin (Orondis Gold 200): 4.8 to 9.6 fl.oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Group 49. Begin foliar application prior to disease development. Swiss chard only.
• potassium salts of phosphorous acid (Fosphite): 1.0 to 3.0 qt/minimum 20.0 gal/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Group P07. Do not apply to plants that are heat- or moisture-stressed. Do not apply directly to plants treated with copper within 20-day interval to avoid plant injury.
• pyraclostrobin (Cabrio EG): 12.0 to 16.0 oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Group 11. Do not alternate with Quadris or Flint. Swiss chard only.
• Reynoutria sachalinensis extract (Regalia): 0.5 to 4.0 qt/A ; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Group P05. Swiss chard only.
• thyme oil (Guarda): See label for rate; PHI 0h, REI 0h, Group NC. See label for application methods.

Seed Decay

Plant on well-drained soil. Buy treated seeds. Do not use treated seed for food, feed or oil purposes.

• fludioxonil (Maxim 4FS): 0.08 to 0.16 oz/100 lb seed; REI 12h, Group 12. For protection against seedborne and soil-borne fungi. Does not control Pythium and Phytophthora.
• mefenoxam (Apron XL): 0.085 to 0.64 fl oz/100 lb seed; REI 48h, Group 4. For Pythium damping-off protection. Not labeled in ME.
• thiram (Thiram 42 S): 8.0 lb/100 lb seed; REI 24h, Group M03. For use by professional applicators only. Not labeled in VT, NH, or ME.

NOTES: For the insecticides listed below, one product trade name and formulation is provided for each active ingredient (AI) as an example of rates, preharvest interval (PHI), restricted entry interval (REI), and special instructions. In many cases, there are other products available with the same AI. Please see Table 27 and Insecticides Alphabetically Listed by Trade Name for more information on these insecticides.

The designation (Bee: L, M, or H) indicates a bee toxicity rating of low, moderate, or high. See the Protecting Honeybees and Native Pollinators section for more details.

The symbol * indicates a product is a restricted use pesticide. See Pesticide Safety and Use for more details.

The symbol ^OG indicates a product is listed by the Organic Materials Review Institute (OMRI) as approved for use in organic production. See Organic Certification section for more details.

Aphids (Myzus persicae or Aphis fabae)

Aphids may include green peach aphid (Myzus persicae) or bean aphid (Aphis fabae). See Peppers for more information about green peach aphids. Bean aphid favors plants in the Chenopodiaceae family (beets, chard, spinach, sugar beet). It feeds on a wide range of weeds (e.g. curly dock, lambsquarters, shephardspurse) as well as many other vegetables but only rarely builds to damaging levels. Bean aphid adults and nymphs are dark olive-green to dull-black in color, with dark legs. They feed on the young tissue of actively growing plants; high numbers can cause leaf curling and stunting. In general, using selective products for other pests will conserve natural enemies of aphids and prevent outbreaks. 

• acetamiprid (Assail 30SG): 2 to 4 oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Bee: M, Group 4A. Swiss chard only.
• alpha-cypermethrin (Fastac* EC): 2.2 to 3.8 oz/A beets, 3.2 to 3.8 oz/A chard; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A.
• azadirachtin (Azatin O^OG): 4 to 16 oz/A foliar or drench, 4 to 16 oz/100 gal in greenhouses; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: L, Group UN. When using lower rates, combine with adjuvant for improved spray coverage and translaminar uptake.
• bifenthrin (Brigade* 2EC): 5.1 to 6.4 oz/A beets, 2.1 to 6.4 oz/A Swiss chard; PHI 1d beets, 7d Swiss chard, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A.
• Chromobacterium subtsugae strain PRAA4-1 (Grandevo^OG): 2 to 3 lb/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: M, Group UN.
• cyantraniliprole (Exirel): 13.5 to 20.5 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 28. Green peach aphid and cotton aphid only on beets. 
• cyantraniliprole (Verimark): 6.75 to 13.5 oz/A soil applications at planting, 6.75 to 10 oz/A chemigation; PHI 1d chemigation, REI 4h, Bee: H, Group 28. Begin drip application when populations first appear. Allow 1-3 days for material to be translocated to fully protect. For control of green peach and suppression of potato aphid only. Swiss chard only.
• dimethoate (Dimethoate 4EC): 8 oz/A; PHI 14d, REI 48h, Bee: H, Group 1B. Swiss chard only.
• dinotefuran (Venom): 1 to 3 oz/A foliar or 5 to 7.5 oz/A soil; PHI 7d foliar, 21d soil, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 4A. Soil application may be as a band during bedding, in-furrow at seeding, as a transplant or post-seeding drench, as a sidedress, or through drip. For Swiss chard only. Suppression only.
• flonicamid (Beleaf 50SG): 2 to 2.8 oz/A; PHI 3d beets, PHI 0d Swiss chard, REI 12, Bee: L, Group 9C.
• flupyradifurone (Sivanto): 10.5 to 14 oz/A for green peach aphid foliar, 7 to 14 oz/A for other aphids foliar, 21 to 28 oz/A for soil application; PHI 1d foliar, 21d soil, REI 4h, Bee:L, Group 4D. Swiss chard only.
• imidacloprid (Admire Pro): 4.4 to 10.5 oz/A; PHI 21d beets, 45d Swiss chard, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 4A. Soil applications only.
• malathion (Malathion 57 EC): 1.5 to 2 pt/A beets, 1 to 1.6 pt/A Swiss chard; PHI 7d beets, 14d Swiss chard, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 1B.
• permethrin (Pounce* 25WP): 6.4 to 12.8 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A. Swiss chard only.
• pyrethrin (PyGanic EC5.0^OG): 4.5 to 17 oz/A; 0.25 to 0.50 oz/gal, 3 gal/1000 sq ft in greenhouse for backpack sprayers; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: M, Group 3A.
• pymetrozine (Fulfill): 2.75 oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Bee: L, Group 9A. Swiss chard only.
• spirotetramat (Movento): 4 to 5 oz/A; PHI 3d, REI 24h, Bee: M, Group 23. Must be tank-mixed with a spray adjuvant with spreading and penetrating properties to maximize leaf uptake and sytemicity; don't use sticker adjuvants. Controls immature stages; may also reduce adult fertility. Swiss chard only.
• sulfoxaflor (Closer SC): 1.5 to 2 oz/A Swiss chard, 1.5 to 2.75 oz/A beets; PHI 3d Swiss chard, 7d beet, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 4C.
• sulfoxaflor (Transform WG): 0.75 to 1.5 oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 24h, Bees: H, Group 4C. Beets only.
• thiamethoxam (Actara): 1.5 to 3 oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 4A.
• thiamethoxam (Platinum): 5 to 12 oz/A on beets, 5 to 11 oz/A on Swiss chard; PHI 30d Swiss chard, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 4A. Systemic insecticide used as an in-furrow, banded, drench, or drip irrigation application to the seed/seedling root zone during or after planting/transplanting or shanked into root zone after transplanting or establishment.
• tolfenpyrad (Torac): 17 to 21 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 21A. Except lettuce aphids. Swiss chard only.

Blister Beetles (Epicauta funebris and E. vittata)

The margined blister beetle, Epicauta funebris, and the striped blister beetle, E. vittata, are the most common blister beetles in the Northeast. These beetles have also been called the "old-fashioned potato beetle". They attack chard, beet, and spinach, along with other vegetable crops, including bean, eggplant, pepper, potato, sweet potato, tomato, and sometimes brassicas. They are very attracted to pigweed and other Amaranthus spp. and also feed on alfalfa and clover. Adults are soft-bodied, slender, long-legged beetles, about 5/8 in. long. The section of the body between the head and the wings is distinctly narrower, giving the impression that the insect has a neck. The egg, larval, and pupal stages occur in the soil, and grasshopper eggs are a favored food for larvae. There is one generation annually in the Northeast, and beetles overwinter as larvae in the soil. Margined blister beetles are dark gray or black with light-gray lines along the margins of the wings. They feed primarily on flowers and blossoms of plants but may also feed on the leaves. Striped blister beetles are yellow to rusty orange with 2 black spots on the head and 2 black stripes dorsally on the thorax and the wings. They are mainly foliage feeders and often appear in large swarms, sometimes quite suddenly, and concentrate in one particular area of a field where they can cause significant feeding damage. Blister beetles contain an oily, caustic substance called cantharidin that protects them from natural enemies. In humans, it causes temporary blisters on the skin; in livestock, especially horses, consuming cantharidin causes severe injury and contamination of hay with blister beetles is a serious concern. Where local swarms occur in a crop, a single spot spray with a broad-spectrum insecticide registered for flea beetles on these crops effectively controls blister beetles.

• azadirachtin (Azatin O^OG): 4 to 16 oz/A foliar or drench, 4 to 16 oz/100 gal in greenhouses; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: L, Group UN. When using lower rates, combine with adjuvant for improved spray coverage and translaminar uptake.
• pyrethrin (PyGanic EC5.0^OG): 4.5 to 17 oz/A; 0.25 to 0.50 oz/gal, 3 gal/1000 sq ft in greenhouse for backpack sprayers; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: M, Group 3A.

Cabbage Maggot

Floating row covers can be used. No insecticides currently registered. For more information see cabbage maggot in the cabbage section. 

Flea Beetles

Several species of flea beetles feed on beets and Swiss chard. Most have a wide host range and tend to be moving among various crops and weeds. Most are black. The species that feeds especially on brassicas do not tend to feed on beets or Swiss chard. Damage (small 'shot holes') is most common on seedlings but can also occur on older leaves.

• alpha-cypermethrin (Fastac* EC): 2.2 to 3.8 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A.
• azadirachtin (Azatin O^OG): 4 to 16 oz/A foliar or drench, 4 to 16 oz/100 gal in greenhouses; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: L, Group UN. When using lower rates, combine with adjuvant for improved spray coverage and translaminar uptake.
• beta-cyfluthrin (Baythroid* XL): 2.4 to 3.2 oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A. Swiss chard only.
• bifenthrin (Brigade* 2EC): 5.1 to 6.4 oz/A beets, 2.1 to 6.4 oz/A Swiss chard; PHI 1d beets, 7d Swiss chard, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A.
• carbaryl (Sevin XLR Plus): 0.5 to 1 qt/A; PHI 7d beets, 14d Swiss chard, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 1A.
• dinotefuran (Venom): 1 to 3 oz/A foliar; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 4A. Swiss chard only.
• imidacloprid (Admire Pro): 4.4 to 10.5 oz/A; PHI 21d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 4A. Soil applications only. Beets only.
• pyrethrin (PyGanic EC5.0^OG): 4.5 to 17 oz/A; 0.25 to 0.50 oz/gal, 3 gal/1000 sq ft in greenhouse for backpack sprayers; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: M, Group 3A.
• thiamethoxam (Actara): 1.5 to 3 oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 4A.
• thiamethoxam (Platinum): 5 to 12 oz/A beets, 5 to 11 oz/A Swiss chard; REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 4A. Systemic insecticide used as an in-furrow, banded, drench, or drip irrigation application to the seed/seedling root zone at planting/transplanting.
• zeta-cypermethrin (Mustang*): 2.24 to 4 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A. Swiss chard only.

Leafminers (Pegomya hyoscyami and P. betae)

Spinach leafminer (Pegomya hyoscyami) and beet leafminer (P. betae) attack crops in the family Chenopodiaceae (Swiss chard, beet, and spinach). Spinach leafminer may also cause damage in solanaceous crops. In beets, leafminer is only a pest if the leaves are marketed or pressure is high enough to reduce root growth. This pest overwinters as a pupa in the soil, and the small (5-7 mm) gray hairy adult flies emerge from late April to mid-May. The two species are similar, but beet leafminer adults are slightly larger, darker, and prefer laying eggs on beet leaves. Female flies lay oblong white eggs (<1 mm) in neat clusters on the underside of the leaves. Eggs hatch in 3-6 days. The larva burrows between the upper and lower epidermis of the leaf and feeds, creating a slender, winding ‘mine’ or tunnel. This expands into large blotches of translucent, dead tissue across the leaf, with a white maggot inside. Damaged leaves are unmarketable. When fully grown, maggots usually drop into the soil to pupate. The entire life cycle takes 30-40 days, and there are 3-4 generations per season, with peak activity periods in mid- to late May, late June and mid-August. Leafminers are most important as an early spring pest, but when populations are high, overlapping generations can cause continuous season-long damage to succession-planted spinach, beets, and chard. After August, pupae enter the overwintering phase and won’t emerge until spring. A commercially available biological control is the tiny wasp parasitoid, Diglyphus isaea, which is most often used against Liriomyza leafminers (see Celery section) but has also been known to control leafminers in Swiss chard. They work best in warm weather. 

For prevention, rotate beet, Swiss chard, and spinach to new fields in the spring and during the growing season. Avoid spring plantings near tunnels where winter greens were grown. Control weed hosts, including lambsquarters, nightshade, chickweed, and plantain. Row covers protect the crop by excluding flies but scout for eggs on transplants before covering. Scout spring transplants in the greenhouse and in the field for eggs, which are easy to spot on the underside of leaves. Treat when eggs are first observed. If tunnels and eggs are present, treat them to prevent further damage. Scout again 7-10 days later to determine if a second treatment is needed. Use an adjuvant and ensure coverage of the lower leaf surface. Some systemic insecticides are registered that may be applied to transplants or to the soil. Among organic products, spinosad has demonstrated efficacy when applied before egg-hatch. Note that some products are labeled only for Swiss chard.

• abamectin (Agri-Mek* SC): 1.75 to 3.5 oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 6. Must be mixed with a non-ionic wetting, spreading and/or penetrating spray adjuvant; do not use binder or sticker type adjuvant. Larvae only. Swiss chard only.
• azadirachtin (Azatin O^OG): 4 to 16 oz/A foliar or drench, 4 to 16 oz/100 gal in greenhouses; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: L, Group UN. When using lower rates, combine with adjuvant for improved spray coverage and translaminar uptake.
• chlorantraniliprole (Coragen): 5.0 to 7.5 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 4h, Bee: L, Group 28. May be applied to soil at planting, through drip chemigation and as a foliar spray. Swiss chard only.
• cyantraniliprole (Exirel): 13.5 to 20.5 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 28. Swiss chard only.
• cyantraniliprole (Verimark): 6.75 to 13.5 oz/A for soil applications at planting, 6.75 to 10 oz/A chemigation; PHI 1d chemigation, REI 4h, Bee: H, Group 28. Allow 1-3 days for insect control to be translocated to protect transplants following an at-plant application. Swiss chard only.
• cyromazine (Trigard): 2.66 oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Bee: M, Group 17. Swiss chard only.
• dimethoate (Dimethoate 4EC): 8 oz/A; PHI 14d, REI 48h, Bee: H, Group 1B. Swiss chard only.
• dinotefuran (Venom): 1 to 3 oz/A foliar or 5 to 7.5 oz/A soil; PHI 7d foliar, 21d soil, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 4A. Soil application may be as a band during bedding, in-furrow at seeding, as a transplant or post-seeding drench, as a sidedress, or through drip. Swiss chard only.
• emamectin benzoate (Proclaim*): 3.2 to 4.8 oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 6. Leafminer suppression on Swiss chard only.
• Isaria fumosorosea Apopka Strain 97 (PFR-97 20% WDG^OG): 1 to 2 lb/A foliar; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: M, Group UN.
• paraffinic oil (Organic JMS Stylet-Oil^OG): 3-6 qt/100 gal water; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: L. Beets only.
• permethrin (Pounce* 25WP): 6.4 to 12.8 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A. Swiss chard only.
• pyrethrin (PyGanic EC5.0^OG): 4.5 to 17 oz/A; 0.25 to 0.50 oz/gal, 3 gal/1000 sq ft in greenhouse for backpack sprayers; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: M, Group 3A.
• spinetoram (Radiant SC): 6 to 10 oz/A; PHI 1d Swiss chard, 3d beet greens, REI 4h, Bee: M, Group 5.
• spinosad (Entrust SC^OG): 4.5 to 10 oz/A beets, 6 to 10 oz/A Swiss chard; PHI 3d beets, 1d Swiss chard, REI 4h, Bee: M, Group 5. Control may be improved with the addition of an adjuvant. Do not apply to Swiss chard seedlings intended for transplant.
• thiamethoxam (Platinum): 5 to 12 oz/A beets, 5 to 11 oz/A Swiss chard; PHI 30d Swiss chard, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 4A. Systemic insecticide used as an in-furrow, banded, drench, or drip irrigation application to the seed/seedling root zone during or after planting/transplanting or shanked into root zone after transplanting or establishment. Swiss chard only.

Slugs

Damage appears as shredded foliage. Look for silvery slime trails on leaves or turn over soil clods or debris to find slugs during daylight hours. Grow plants away from moist, shaded habitats, use clean cultivation, control weeds, hand-pick slugs, or scatter baits on the ground near infested plants. See the Cabbage section for more information on slugs.

• iron phosphate (Sluggo: Slug and Snail Bait^OG): 20 to 44 lb/A; PHI 0d, REI 0h, Bee: L, Group 9B. Apply around perimeter, scatter around base of plants, or band down rows. Apply to moist soil in the evening.
• metaldehyde (Deadline Bullets): 25 lb/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: L. Soil surface treatment broadcast pre-planting, or band treatment between rows after formation of edible parts. Apply to moist soil in the evening. Do not apply directly to or contaminate edible portions of plants. Swiss chard only.

NOTES: For the herbicides listed below, one product trade name and formulation is provided for each active ingredient along with preharvest interval (PHI), restricted entry interval (REI), resistance management group number, and example of rates and special instructions. In many cases, there are other products available with the same active ingredient. However, not all products with the same active ingredient are registered for use in a crop. Always check the product label to be sure that the crop is listed before using. 

Stale Seedbed

See Stale Seedbed Technique for information on the use of these herbicides or flaming.

• carfentrazone (Aim EC): REI 12h, Group 14.
• glyphosate (Roundup Power Max): PHI 7d, REI 4h, Group 9.
• pelargonic acid (Scythe): PHI 1d, REI 12h, Group 0.

Preemergent Herbicides (before weeds germinate)

• cycloate (Ro-Neet): REI 48h, Group 15. Beets only. Apply 0.5-0.66 gal/A per application. Can be applied before, during, or immediately after planting. Apply in 10-50 gal/A of spray. Incorporate immediately 2-3” into the soil. Use on mineral soils only. Use the lower rate on sandy soils and the higher rate on silt and clay soils.
• dimethenamid (Outlook): PHI 60d, REI 12h, Group 15. Beets only. Apply 8-21 oz/A, up to 2 applications allowed per year, a minimum of 14 days apart. Do not exceed 21 oz/A per year. If applying as a split application, apply half to two-thirds the rate at the first application and the remaining at the second application. Application rate depends on soil texture and organic matter content. Apply to beets that have 2 fully expanded true leaves, but not after they have 6 fully expanded leaves. Temporary leaf damage may occur and applying before the 2-leaf stage may cause significant crop injury.
• s-metolachlor (Dual Magnum): REI 24h, Group 15. MA, ME, and NH only. Make sure the label for your state is available for download before using this product. This is a restricted label available only to growers who apply through the website www.syngenta-us.com/labels/indemnified-label-login and agree to a waiver of liability. Main target weeds for this registration are galinsoga and yellow nutsedge. All label instructions will be supplied after the application for use is completed.

Postemergent Herbicides (after weeds germinate)

• carfentrazone (Aim EC): PHI 0d, REI 12h, Group 14. Apply 0.5-2 oz/A per application, multiple applications allowed per year. Do not exceed 6.1 oz/A per year. Apply to row middles of emerged crops with hooded sprayers to control emerged weeds, including crops grown on mulch or plastic. Prevent any spray from contacting the crop, or injury will occur. For best results, make application to actively growing weeds up to 4” tall and rosettes less than 3” across. Can also apply up to 2 oz/A as a preplant burndown no later than 7 days before direct-seeding Swiss chard.
• clethodim (Select Max): PHI 30d, REI 24h, Group 1. Apply 9-16 oz/A per application, up to 4 applications allowed per year, a minimum of 14 days apart. Do not exceed 64 oz/A per year. Apply to actively growing grasses. Add 0.25% v:v nonionic surfactant (1 qt/100 gal of spray). Can also be applied as a spot-spray by mixing 0.33-0.66% (0.44-0.85 oz/gal) Select Max and 0.25% v:v nonionic surfactant (0.33 oz/gal). Spray to wet, but do not allow runoff of spray solution.
• clopyralid (Stinger): PHI 30d, REI 12h, Group 4. Beets only. Apply 4-8 oz/A per application, up to 2 applications allowed per year. Do not exceed 8 oz/A per year. Apply when beets are in the 2- to 8-leaf stage and weeds are young and actively growing, between 2-4" tall. Spray additives are not recommended.
• glyphosate (Roundup Power Max): PHI 14d, REI 4h, Group 9. Apply 10 oz to 3.1 qts/A per application, multiple applications allowed per year. Do not exceed 5 qts/A per year. Rate based on target weed species. Can be applied during fallow intervals, prior to planting or transplanting, at planting, or before crop has emerged. Could cause injury when applied prior to transplanting or direct-seeding into plastic mulch. Remove residual product from plastic mulch with a 0.5” of water through irrigation or rainfall prior to planting.
• pelargonic acid (Scythe): PHI 1d, REI 12h, Group 0. Apply a 3-10% solution (3-10 gallons per 100 gallons of spray). Rate based on target weed species. Apply in 75-200 gal/A of spray or with a spot sprayer until foliage is wet but not to the point of runoff. Repeat applications as necessary. Can apply for vegetative burndown during site preparation, prior to crop emergence from soil, as a directed and shielded spray during crop growth taking care to avoid contact with foliage and green tissue of crops, or after harvest. For beets, can also apply as a harvest aid to remove crop leaves.
• sethoxydim (Poast): PHI 60d for beets, 30d for chard, REI 12h, Group 1. For beets, apply up to 2.5 pt/A per application, multiple applications allowed per year, a minimum of 14 days apart. Do not exceed 5 pts/A per year. For chard, apply up to 1.5 pt/A per application, multiple applications are allowed, a minimum of 14 days between applications. Do not exceed 3 pts/A per year. Apply to actively growing grasses. Use with crop oil concentrate (2 pt/A) or methylated seed oil (1.5 pt/A). Note that crop oil can cause injury under hot and humid conditions. Can also be applied as a spot-spray by mixing 1-1.5% (1.3-1.9 oz/gal) Poast and 1% v:v crop oil concentrate (1.3 oz/gal). Spray to wet, but do not allow runoff of spray solution.

NOTE: For the disease control products listed below, one product trade name and formulation is provided for each active ingredient (common name) as an example of rates, preharvest interval (PHI), restricted entry interval (REI), and special instructions. In many cases, there are other products available with the same active ingredient. Please see Table 25 and Fungicides and Bactericides Alphabetically Listed by Trade Name for more information on products with the same active ingredients.

The symbol ^OG indicates a product is listed by the Organic Materials Review Institute (OMRI) as approved for use in organic production. See Organic Certification section for more details.

Alternaria Damping-off

Buy seed certified as disease-free or treat with hot water at 122°F for 25 minutes (see Hot Water Treatment of Seed in the Disease Management section). Brassica crop seed is susceptible to seed vigor loss from hot water treatment. Seed should be treated as close to planting as possible.

Alternaria Leaf Spot and Head Rot

Alternaria leaf spot and head rot are caused by at least three species of the fungus Alternaria and may be seedborne. Start with certified disease-free seed or treat seed with hot water. Practice a 3-year crop rotation with all brassica crops. Use proper plant and row spacing to ensure good air circulation. Irrigate in the morning. Avoid overhead irrigation if possible. Control weeds, especially those in the family Brassicaceae. Avoid working in fields when foliage is wet. Promptly incorporate plant debris after harvest, or mow if tillage is not possible in late fall crops. Varieties differ in susceptibility but no resistant varieties are available. 

• azoxystrobin (Quadris): 6.0 to 15.5 fl oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Group 11. Do not repeat the application or rotate with other strobilurins. See label for list of allowed brassica crops.
• azoxystrobin plus difenoconazole (Quadris Top): 12.0 to 14.0 fl oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Groups 11 & 3.
• Bacillus amyloliquefaciens strain D747 (DoubleNickel^OG): 0.25 to 3.0 lb/A; PHI 0d, REI 4 h, Group BM02. Disease suppression only. For improved control; mix or rotate with a chemical fungicide.
• boscalid (Endura): 6.0 to 9.0 oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Group 7. Maximum 2 applications per year.
• botanical extract (Ecoswing^OG): 1.5 to 2.0 pt/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Group BM 01.
• chlorothalonil (Bravo Weather Stik): 1.5 pt/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Group M05.
• copper hydroxide (Kocide 3000): 0.5 to 0.75 lb/A; PHI 0d, REI 48h, Group M01. Do not apply in a spray solution having a pH less than 6.5 or tank mix with Aliette.
• cyprodinil plus fludioxonil (Switch 6.25 WG): 11.0 to 14.0 oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Groups 9 & 12.
• difenoconazole plus cyprodinil (Inspire Super): 16.0 to 20.0 fl oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Group 3 & 9. Apply in sufficient volume to achieve thorough coverage. 
• fenamidone (Reason SC): 8.2 fl oz/A; PHI 2d, REI 12h, Group 11. Do not alternate with other Group 11 fungicides.
• flutriafol (Rhyme 2.08 SC): 5 to 7 fl oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Group 3.
• fluxapyroxad plus pyraclostrobin (Priaxor Xemium): 6.0 to 8.2 fl. oz/A; PHI 3d, REI 12 h, Groups 7 & 11.
• mancozeb (Manzate Pro Stick): 1.6 to 2.1 lb/A; PHI 7d, REI 24h, Group M03. Cabbage and broccoli only.
• penthiopyrad (Fontelis): 14.0 to 30.0 fl oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Group 7.
• polyoxin D (OSO 5%SC): 6.5 to 13.0 fl oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Group 19.
• potassium bicarbonate (PB 133, AKA MilStop^OG): 2.5 lb to 5.0 lb/100 gal; PHI 0d, REI 1h, Group NC. See label for small volume application rates.
• Pseudomonas chlororaphis (Howler^OM): 2.5 to 7.5 lbs/A. PHI 0d, REI 4h, Group BM02. Use preventatively. 
• pydiflumetofen plus fludioxonil (Miravis Prime): 11.4 fl oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Groups 7 & 12.
• pyraclostrobin (Cabrio EG): 12.0 to 16.0 oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Group 11.
• thyme oil (Guarda): See label for rate; PHI 0h, REI 0h, Group NC. See label for application methods.
• triflumizole (Procure): 6 to 8 fl oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Group 3.

Black Leg (Phoma lingam, Leptosphaeria maculans)

Symptoms of this fungal disease include grayish lesions with dark borders on leaves and stems. All brassica crops are susceptible. Rotate away from brassicas for at least 3 years. Start with certified, disease-free seed, or treat seed with hot water. Inspect seedlings for infection before planting out into the field. Use proper plant and row spacing to ensure good air circulation. Avoid overhead irrigation if possible. Control weeds, especially those in the family Brassicaceae. Avoid working in fields when foliage is wet. Promptly incorporate plant debris after harvest, or mow if tillage is not possible in late fall crops.

• fluxapyroxad plus pyraclostrobin (Priaxor Xemium): 6.0 to 8.2 fl. oz/A; PHI 3d, REI 12 h, Groups 7 & 11.
• iprodione (Rovral 4F): 2.0 pt/A; PHI 0d, REI 24h, Group 2. Broccoli only.
• potassium bicarbonate (MilStop^OG): 2.5 to 5.0 lb/100 gal; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Group NC. See label for small volume application rates.
• pyraclostrobin (Cabrio EG): 12.0 to 16.0 oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Group 11.
• thiram (Thiram 42-S): 8 lb/A; REI 24h, Group M3. Seed treatment.

Black Rot (Xanthomonas campestris pv. campestris)

Symptoms of this bacterial disease include yellow to brown lesions, most often on the leaf margins. Some lesions will have a characteristic V shape and blackened veins. Practice a 3-year crop rotation with all brassica crops. Start with certified disease-free seed or treat seed with hot water. Use proper plant and row spacing to ensure good air circulation. Avoid overhead irrigation if possible. Control weeds, especially those in the family Brassicaceae. Avoid working in fields when foliage is wet. Promptly incorporate plant debris after harvest, or mow if tillage is not possible in late fall crops.

• acibenzolar-S-methyl (Actigard): 0.5 to 1.0 oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Group P 01. Suppression only.
• Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. kurstaki strain ABTS-351 plus methyl salicylate (Leap ES): See label for rates; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Group 11A. See label for application methods and restrictions.
• copper hydroxide (Kocide 3000): 0.5 to 0.75 lb/A; PHI 0d, REI 48h, Group M01. Do not apply in a spray solution having a pH less than 6.5 or tank mix with Aliette.
• laminarim (Vacciplant): 14.0 to 22.0 fl oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Group P04. See label for application methods and restrictions.
• mancozeb plus copper hydroxide (ManKocide): 1.0 to 1.75 lb/A; PHI 7d, REI 48h, Groups M03 & M01. Not labeled for cauliflower.
• Pseudomonas chlororaphis (Howler^OG): 2.5 to 7.5 lbs/A. PHI 0d, REI 4h, Group BM02. Use preventatively. Not labeled for cauliflower.

Club Root (Plasmodiophora brassicae)

Initial symptoms include stunting, yellowing, and wilting. This disease is characterized by marked swelling and deformity of roots. There is currently no way to eliminate club root from infested soil, but the pathogen can be suppressed by practicing a long crop rotation and increasing soil pH. Maintain soil at a pH of 7.0-7.2 by applying lime (maximum of 1000 lbs/A per application). Practice a routine 3-year rotation for all brassica crops; if club root is detected in a field, rotate out of brassicas in that field for 7 years. After a 7-year crop rotation, pH adjustment and fungicide applications may reduce the viable club root spores to below economic threshold levels of infection for many growing seasons to come. Cold, wet soils favor club root development and spore survival. Resistant varieties of some brassica crops are available. Prevent the movement of infested soil and irrigation water into uninfested fields.

• cyazofamid (Ranman): 12.9 to 25.75 fl oz/100 gal (transplant drench); PHI 0d, REI 12h, Group 21. Tank mix with an organosilicone surfactant. Transplant soil drench or soil incorporation. See label for details.
• fluazinam (Omega 500 F): 6.45 fl oz/100gal (transplant drench); PHI 7-50d, REI 12h, Group 29. Transplant soil drench or incorporation. PHI varies by crop. See label for details.
• Bacillus subtilis strain QST 713 (Serenade ASO): 2.0 to 4.0 gt/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Group BM02.
• PCNB (Blocker 4F): Rate varies depending upon application method—see label; REI 12h, Group 14. For transplant applications, mix 3 pts into 100 gal water and use 0.5 to 0.75 pts solution per plant, based on severity of field infestation. Maintain agitation to hold product in suspension. For banded applications, apply as a 12-inch band, in 25 gal water per acre or 5.5 fl oz water per 100 ft of row based on 40-inch row spacing. For broadcast applications, apply in 30 gal water prior to planting. For all application methods, thoroughly incorporate into soil after application.

Downy Mildew (Hyaloperonospora brassicae)

Symptoms include angular yellow to orange lesions with dark speckling or veining on the upper sides of leaves, and crusty white sporulation on the upper and undersides of leaves. Resistant varieties of some brassica crops are available. Use proper plant and row spacing to ensure good air circulation. Avoid overhead irrigation if possible. Control weeds, especially those in the family Brassicaceae.

• acibenzolar-S-methyl (Actigard): 0.5 to 1.0 oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 12 h, Group P01.
• ametoctradin plus dimethomorph (Zampro): 14.0 fl oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Groups 45 & 40.
• azoxystrobin (Quadris): 6.0 to 15.5 fl oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Group 11.
• Bacillus amyloliquefaciens strain D747 (DoubleNickel^OG): 0.12 to 1.0 lb/A as a soil drench; PHI 0d, REI 4 h, Group 44. Suppression only. For improved control, mix or rotate with an approved chemical fungicide.
• chlorothalonil (Bravo Weather Stik): 1.5 pt/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Group M05. See label for replant restrictions.
• copper hydroxide (Kocide 3000): 0.5 to 0.75 lb/A; PHI 0d, REI 48h, Group M01. Do not apply in a spray solution having a pH less than 6.5 or tank mix with Aliette.
• cyazofamid (Ranman): 2.75 fl oz/A (foliar application); PHI 0d, REI 12h, Group 21. Tank mix with an organosilicone surfactant. 
• dimethomrph (Forum): 6.0 fl oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Group 40. Apply in combination with a labeled rate of another non-Group 40 fungicide.
• fenamidone (Reason SC): 5.5 to 8.2 fl oz/A; PHI 2d, REI 12h, Group 11. Do not alternate with other Group 11 fungicides.
• fluazinam (Omega 500F): 15.35 fl oz/A (foliar application); PHI 7d, REI 12-48h, Group 29. Cabbage and Chinese cabbage only. REI = 48h for handset irrigation, 12h for all other activites.
• fluopicolide (Presidio): 3.0 to 4.0 fl oz/A; PHI 2d, REI 12h, Group 43. Tank mix with a non-Group 43 fungicide.
• fosetyl aluminum (Aliette WDG): 3.0 to 5.0 lb/A; PHI 3d, REI 12h, Group 33. Do not mix with copper fungicides. Lower rates of Aliette (2 to 3 lb) can be used when tank mixed with another fungicide labeled for downy mildew control.
• mancozeb plus copper hydroxide (ManKocide): 1.0 to 1.75 lb/A; PHI 7d, REI 48h, Groups M03 & M01. Broccoli and cabbage only.
• mandipropamid (Revus): 8.0 fl oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 4h, Group 40. A spreading/penetrating type adjuvant must be added.
• mefenoxam (Subdue MAXX): 25 to 50 pt/A; PHI 7d, REI 48h, Group 4. Do not apply foliar sprays without a labeled tank mix partner.
• mefenoxam plus chlorothalonil (Ridomil Gold Bravo SC): 1.5 pt/A; PHI 7d, REI 48h, Groups 4 & M05. See label for plant-back restrictions and restrictions on certain brassicas.
• oxathiapiprolin plus mandipropamid (Orondis Ultra): 5.5 to 8.0 fl.oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 4h, Groups 49 & 40. Begin foliar application prior to disease development. Use higher rate when disease is present. A spreading/penetrating adjuvant must be added.
• phosphorous acid (Fosphite): 1.0 to 3.0 qt/100 gal; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Group 33. Do not apply to plants that are heat- or moisture-stressed. Do not apply directly to plants treated with copper within 20-day interval to avoid plant injury.
• potassium bicarbonate (PB 133, AKA MilStop^OG): 2.5 to 5.0 lb/100 gal; PHI 0d, REI 1h, Group NC. See label for small volume application rates.
• Pseudomonas chlororaphis (Howler^OG): 2.5 to 7.5 lbs/A. PHI 0d, REI 4h, Group BM02. Use preventatively.
• pyraclostrobin (Cabrio EG): 12.0 to 16.0 oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Group 11.
• Reynoutria sachalinensis extract (Regalia^OG): 1.0 to 4.0 qt/A ground application; PHI 0d, REI 4 h, Group P5. Apply to ensure thorough coverage. See label for specific application instructions.

Fusarium Yellows

This fungal pathogen is soil-borne and may also be seedborne. Plant resistant varieties. Prevent the movement of infested soil to clean fields. Provide adequate fertility; potassium deficiency increases disease severity.

Seed Decay and Damping-off

Buy treated seed. Do not use treated seed for food, feed or oil purposes.

• Bacillus amyloliquefaciens strain D747 (DoubleNickel^OG): 0.125 to 1.0 lb/A at planting; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Group 02. Suppression only.
• mefenoxam (Apron XL): 0.32 to 0.64 fl oz/lb seed; REI 48h, Group 4. For Pythium damping-off protection.
• Streptomyces griseoviridis strain K61 (MycoStop^OG): See label for rates; REI 4h.
• thiram (Thiram 42-S): 8.0 fl oz/100 lb seed; REI 24h, Group M03. Seed treatment.

Wire Stem, Crater Rot, and Head Rot (Rhizoctonia solani)

Diseases of brassica crops in this section caused by R. solani include wirestem and damping-off (seedlings), crater rot (root crops), and bottom or head rot (cabbage). Lesions caused by Rhizoctonia are brown to black and may be sunken. Rhizoctonia can be carried on the seeds of most brassica species and is ubiquitous in most soils, where it survives indefinitely. Start with certified, disease-free seed. Practice good sanitation in transplant production in order to avoid later need for fungicide drenches. Use treated seed for direct-seeding. Practices that encourage rapid germination and establishment limit disease development. Avoid planting transplants too deeply. Rotate crops. Do not plant susceptible brassicas in fields with undecomposed crop residues. No highly resistant varieties are available. Fungicide treatments in the field have limited effectiveness.

• PCNB (Blocker 4F): Rate varies depending upon application method—see label; REI 12h, Group 14. Note: R. solani referred to as Corticium solani on label.
• polyoxin D (OSO 5%SC): 6.5 to 13.0 fl oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Group 19.

Turnip Mosaic Virus

Turnip mosaic virus can infect most brassica crops but it is most commonly seen in Chinese cabbage and bok choy. It is spread by many species of aphids in a nonpersistent manner; therefore, insecticides are of little or no value in controlling its spread. This virus survives the winter in perennial weeds. Symptoms vary with host and include yellow and/or necrotic spots, mosiac, leaf deformity, and interveinal chlorosis. Environmental conditions also affect symptom expression. Partially resistant cultivars include 'Nabyeng', 'Kongng', 'Tip Top', and 'Ta Feng'. These cultivars may be intolerant of heat.

NOTES: For the insecticides listed below, one product trade name and formulation is provided for each active ingredient (AI) as an example of rates, preharvest interval (PHI), restricted entry interval (REI), and special instructions. In many cases, there are other products available with the same AI. Please see Table 26 and Insecticides Alphabetically Listed by Trade Name for more information on these insecticides.

All tolerances for chlorpyrifos in food crops were revoked in 2022, therefore products containing chlorpyrifos (e.g. Lorsban) cannot be applied to any food crop and growers CANNOT use up existing stock.

The designation (Bee: L, M, or H) indicates a bee toxicity rating of low, moderate, or high. See the Protecting Honeybees and Native Pollinators section for more details.

The symbol * indicates a product is a restricted use pesticide. See Pesticide Safety and Use for more details.

The symbol ^OG indicates a product is listed by the Organic Materials Review Institute (OMRI) as approved for use in organic production. See Organic Certification section for more details.

A spreader-sticker should be used with insecticides on these crops, as it will help provide better coverage and more insecticide persistence.

Cabbage Aphid (Brevicoryne brassicae)

Only crops and weeds in the brassica family are suitable hosts for cabbage aphid (CA). Cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli and Brussels sprouts are most severely affected, but other crops may become infested. Aphids tend to be more of a problem in fall plantings. Adults, both winged and wingless, and nymphs are grayish green with a dark head and short, dark cornicles, but appear more grayish white because the body is covered with a fine, white, powdery secretion. In fall, eggs are laid on the undersides of leaves of the same crops or weeds that were fed on during the summer, and survive the winter on brassica host plants. This differs from the life cycle of many aphid pests of vegetables, where eggs are laid and overwinter on alternate hosts outside the field. Eggs typically hatch in April. Nymphs feed and develop into reproductive females who produce live young without mating. Winged adults disperse with wind and infest new crops. There are multiple summer generations and potential for huge population growth, especially where long-season crops are infested early. CA prefers to feed on young leaves, flower buds or seed stalks in the upper part of the plant and also feeds in developing Brussels sprout buds. Dense colonies may develop. Feeding injury includes wrinkled and downward-curling leaves, yellow leaves, reduced growth, contamination with aphid honeydew, and contamination of the marketable parts of the plant with aphids. CA can also transmit cauliflower mosaic and cabbage ring spot virus, among other viruses; transmission is non-persistent, with virus particles passed to new plants by probing. Natural enemies can suppress populations, but may not be able to prevent high densities that may occur in cool fall weather. Cultural controls include soil incorporation of crop residues immediately after harvest or, for overwintering brassicas, before eggs hatch in spring. Control brassica weeds in or near fields. Check transplants to be sure they are clean. Use reflective mulch to repel aphids. Use selective products when controlling other pests to conserve beneficials. If CA is a consistent problem, systemic insecticides used at planting or sidedress may eliminate early infestations. Scout weekly to determine % infested plants, starting before harvested portions of the plant form. Treat if >10% of the plants are infested with aphids, especially after heads or sprouts begin to form. Or select 10 leaves at 10 sites for 100 leaves per field, and treat if >20% have aphids. Coverage of all leaf surfaces, buds and new growth is key. Waiting until there are heavy outbreaks or until just before harvest makes it hard to prevent loss of marketable yield.

Green peach aphid (Myzus persicae) can also infest brassicas. For more information, see green peach aphid in the Pepper section.

• acephate (Orthene 97): 0.5 to 1 lb/A; PHI 14d, REI 24h, Bee: H, Group 1B. Green peach aphid only. Brussels sprouts and cauliflower only.
• acetamiprid (Assail 30SG): 2 to 4 oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 4A.
• afidopyropen (Versys): 1.5 fl oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 12 h, Bee: L, Group 9D.
• azadirachtin (Azatin O^OG): 4 to 16 oz/A foliar or drench, 4 to 16 oz/100 gal in greenhouses; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: L, Group UN. When using lower rates, combine with adjuvant for improved spray coverage and translaminar uptake.
• Beauveria bassiana (Mycotrol ESO^OG): 8 to 32 oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: L, Group UN. Treat when populations are low and thoroughly cover foliage. Takes 7-10 days after the first spray to see control. Repeat applications may be needed.
• bifenthrin (Brigade* 2EC): 2.1 to 6.4 oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A.
• Burkholderia spp. strain A396 (Venerate XC^OG): 2 to 4 qt/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: M, Group UN. Suppression only.
• Chromobacterium subtsugae strain PRAA4-1 (Grandevo^OG): 2 to 3 lb/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: M, Group UN.
• clove oil, thyme oil plus cinnamon oil (EcotrolG2^OG): 16 to 22 lb/A; PHI 0d, REI 0h, Bee: L, Group UN. Apply as a band at planting or after planting and incorporate into soil to depth of 3-6". Repellent.
• cyantraniliprole (Exirel): 13.5 to 20.5 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 28.
• cyantraniliprole (Verimark): 6.75 to 13.5 oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: H, Group 28. For soil applications at planting.
• dimethoate (Dimethoate 4EC): 8 to 16 oz/A for broccoli and cauliflower, 8 oz/A for kale and mustard, 16 oz/A Brussels sprouts; PHI 7d broccoli and cauliflower, 14d kale and mustard, 0d Brussels sprouts, REI 48h, Bee: H, Group 1B. Broccoli, cauliflower, kale, mustard, Brussels sprouts only.
• dinotefuran (Safari 20SG): 0.16 to 0.32 oz/1,000 sq ft, 3.5 to 7 oz/100 gal, 7 to 14 oz/A; REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 4. Broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, and kohlrabi transplants only while in greenhouse. Not for field use.
• dinotefuran (Venom): 1 to 4 oz/A for foliar applications or 5 to 7.5 oz/A for soil applications to head and stem brassicas, 2 to 3 oz/A for foliar application only to leafy brassicas; PHI 1d foliar, 21d soil, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 4A. Soil application may be as a band during bedding, in-furrow at seeding, as a transplant or post-seeding drench, as a sidedress, or through drip. Head and stem brassicas only. Suppression only.
• fenpropathrin (Danitol* 2.4EC): 10.66 to 16 oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 24h, Bee: H, Group 3. May be combined with Belay insecticide (see label for rates and 21d PHI). Do not apply during bloom or if bees are actively foraging. Head and stem brassicas only.
• flonicamid (Beleaf 50SG): 2 to 2.8 oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: L, Group 9C.
• flupyradifurone (Sivanto): 7 to 14 oz/A foliar, 21 to 28 oz/A soil; PHI 1d foliar, 21d soil, REI 4h, Bee: L, Group 4D.
• imidacloprid (Admire Pro): 4.4 to 10.5 oz/A soil; 1.3 oz/A foliar; PHI 21d soil, 7d foliar, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 4A.
• insecticidal soap (M-Pede^OG): 1.25 to 2.5 oz/gal water; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: L. Spray to wet all infested plant surfaces. May need to make repeated applications. For enhanced and residual control, apply with companion labeled insecticide.
• lambda-cyhalothrin (Warrior* II): 1.28 to 1.92 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 24h, Bee: H, Group 3A. Head and stem brassicas only. Suppression only.
• malathion (Malathion 57 EC): 1 to 2 pt/A for broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, cabbage, and kohlrabi, 1 to 1.6 pt/A for kale and mustard greens, 1.5 to 1.6 pt/A for collards; PHI 2d broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, 7d cabbage, kale, collards, kohlrabi, mustard greens, REI 48h broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, 24h kohlrabi; 12h collards, kale, mustard greens, Bee: H, Group 1B.
• petroleum oil (Suffoil X^OG): 1 to 2 gal/100 gal water; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: L.
• pymetrozine (Fulfill): 2.75 oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Bee: L, Group 9A. Selective control of aphids including cabbage aphid. Translaminar.
• pyrethrin (PyGanic EC5.0^OG): 4.5 to 17 oz/A; 0.25 to 0.50 oz/gal, 3 gal/1000 sq ft in greenhouse for backpack sprayers; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: M, Group 3A.
• sodium tetraborohydrate decahydrate (Prev-AM): 100 oz/100 gal; REI 12h, Bee: L, Group 25. Do not apply in midday sun or mix with copper, sulfur, or oils.
• spirotetramat (Movento): 4 to 5 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 24h, Bee: M, Group 23. Must be tank-mixed with a spray adjuvant with spreading and penetrating properties to maximize leaf uptake and sytemicity; don't use sticker adjuvants. Controls immature stages; may also reduce adult fertility.
• sulfoxaflor (Closer SC): 1.5 to 2 oz/A; PHI 3d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 4C.
• thiamethoxam (Actara): 1.5 to 3 oz/A; PHI 7d leafy brassica greens, 0d head and stem brassicas, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 4A.
• thiamethoxam (Platinum): 5 to 11 oz/A; PHI 30d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 4A. Systemic insecticide used as an in-furrow, banded, drench, or drip irrigation application to the seed/seedling root zone during or after planting/transplanting operations or shanked into root zone after transplanting or establishment.
• tolfenpyrad (Torac): 17 to 21 fl oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 21A.

Cabbage Looper (Trichoplusia ni), Diamondback Moth (Plutella xylostella), and Imported Cabbageworm (Pieris rapae)

Diamondback moth and imported cabbageworm are pests throughout the growing season, while cabbage looper generally does not become a pest until mid- to late-season.

Imported cabbageworm (ICW) is the offspring of the cabbage butterfly, a daytime flyer often visible in brassica fields. Wings are white, and the forewing has a dark border and 1-2 round black spots. Eggs, laid singly on leaves, are about 0.125 in. long, light green or yellow, and slightly elongated, standing upright. ICW caterpillars are gray-green with a thin yellow line down the back, slightly fuzzy, reach 1.25 in. long, and are sluggish when touched. Feeding and resting occur on the underside of leaves, and larvae feed more heavily in the center or head of cabbage or broccoli. Damage includes round or ragged feeding holes and deposits of wet, green or brownish frass. The overwintering stage is the chrysalis (pupa), which is green or brown, smooth, with 3 pointed ridges on its back. There are 3-4 generations per year with adults first appearing in May.

Cabbage looper (CL) does not overwinter in New England but arrives in migratory flights from farther south. Generally, numbers are not significant until late July or August. Adult moths are mottled gray-brown, 0.75 in. long, with a distinct, round, silver-white mark on the wing. Bucket-type pheromone traps can be used to monitor moth flight. Eggs are globe-shaped, light green or yellow, and on undersides of leaves. Caterpillars are light green, with wavy, white or light yellow lines down the back and sides, reaching 1.5-2 in. when full grown. Cabbage loopers of any size move like inchworms by raising the middle of their body in a characteristic "loop" shape. Feeding damage from older larvae consists of ragged, large holes in foliage, on both frame leaves and heads.

Diamondback moth (DBM) adults are small (<0.5 in.), light brown with a yellow diamond-shaped marking, and rest with their wings folded together like a tent. Adult moths are active at dusk and during the night. Caterpillars reach a length of 3/4 in., are light green, and are segmented and pointed at both ends. When disturbed they wiggle vigorously and may drop off the plant on a string of silk. Feeding causes small, round holes and tends to be spread across the foliage rather than concentrated in the head.

Incorporate crop residues shortly after harvest to reduce movement to successive plantings and reduce overwintering populations. Populations are suppressed by a wide range of natural enemies and there are several selective materials that control caterpillars and have minimal non-target effects (e.g. Xentari, Dipel, Coragen, Intrepid). Parasitic wasps that attack caterpillars include Cotesia rubecula on ICW and Diadegma insulare on DBM; their small white cocoons may be found on leaves.

Scout fields by checking leaves (top and bottom) on 25 plants across the field. In the Northeast, there is generally no need to treat young plants unless weather conditions delay plant development and at least 35% of plants are infested with any of these pests. Treat plants between the start of heading and harvest if 20% or more of the plants are infested. The most critical time to scout and apply chemical controls is just prior to head formation. Use a 10-15% threshold throughout the season for kale, collards, mustard, and other leafy greens.

Do not use less than 50 gal spray material/A; higher volumes provide better coverage. Better coverage of lower leaf surfaces can be achieved by using drop nozzles. Use a spreader-sticker. Use selective materials to spare beneficials that help control aphids and caterpillars. DBM has become resistant to many synthetic and microbial insecticides. Even if you are getting excellent control of this pest with the materials presently being used, you should alternate between effective materials to slow development of resistance. Newer materials and the aizawai strain of Bacillus thuringiensis will usually provide better control of resistant DBM than older products. Use transplants grown in New England to avoid importing DBM that have already developed resistance to one or more classes of insecticides.

• acephate (Orthene 97): 1 lb/A; PHI 14d, REI 24h, Bee: H, Group 1B. For Brussels sprouts and cauliflower only. DBM has developed resistance in some areas. 
• acetamiprid (Assail 30SG): 4 oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 4A. For suppression of DBM only.
• alpha-cypermethrin (Fastac* EC): 2.2 to 3.8 oz/A DBM and ICW, 3.2 to 3.8 oz/A CL; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A.
• azadirachtin (Azatin O^OG): 4 to 16 oz/A foliar or drench, 4 to 16 oz/100 gal in greenhouses; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: L, Group UN. When using lower rates, combine with adjuvant for improved spray coverage and translaminar uptake.
• azadirachtin & pyrethrins (Azera^OG): 16 to 56 oz/A foliar, drench, and greenhouse applications; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: M, Groups un & 3A.
• Bacillus thuringiensis aizawai (XenTari^OG): 0.5 to 1.5 lb/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: L, Group 11. Must be ingested; apply in evening or early morning, before larvae are actively feeding. Adherence and weather-fastness will improve with use of an approved spreader-sticker. Use high rate at cool temperatures. Particularly effective against DBM. For resistance management, may be rotated with Bt kurstaki products (Dipel).
• Bacillus thuringiensis kurstaki (Dipel DF^OG): 0.5 to 2 lb/A DBM & ICW, 0.5 to 1 lb/A CL; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: L, Group 11. Must be ingested; apply in evening or early morning, before larvae are actively feeding. Adherence and weather-fastness will improve with use of an approved spreader-sticker. Use high rate at cool temperatures. Particularly effective against DBM. For resistance management, may be rotated with Bt aizawai products (XenTari).
• Beauveria bassiana (Mycotrol ESO): 16 to 32 oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: L, Group UN. Use high rate for CL. May be used alone or tank mixed with Bacillus thuringiensis products. Takes 7-10 days after application to see control.
• beta-cyfluthrin (Baythroid* XL): 1.6 to 2.4 oz/A CL and ICW, 2.4 to 3.2 oz/A DBM; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A.
• bifenthrin (Brigade* 2EC): 2.1 to 6.4 oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A.
• Burkholderia spp. strain A396 (Venerate XC^OG): 1 to 4 qt/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: M, Group UN.
• carbaryl (Sevin XLR Plus): 1 to 2 qt/A; PHI 3d broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, and kohlrabi, 14d Chinese cabbage, collards, kale, and mustard greens, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 1A. DBM and ICW only.
• chlorantraniliprole (Coragen): 3.5 to 7.5 oz/A; PHI 3d, REI 4h, Bee: L, Group 28. May be applied to soil at planting, through drip chemigation, and as a foliar spray. Do not apply more than twice to any generation of DBM.
• Chromobacterium subtsugae strain PRAA4-1 (Grandevo^OG): 1 to 3 lb/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: M, Group UN.
• cryolite (Prokil Cryolite): 8 to 16 lb/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Bee: L, Group UN. Broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and cauliflower only. 
• cyantraniliprole (Exirel): 10 to 17 oz/A CL, 7 to 13.5 oz/A ICW and DBM; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 28. For DBM resistance management, do not apply Exirel more than twice within any 30-day window.
• cyantraniliprole (Verimark): 6.75 to 10 oz/A CL, 5 to 10 oz/A DBM and ICW; PHI 1d chemigation, REI 4h, Bee: H, Group 28. For soil applications at planting and drip chemigation.
• cyclaniliprole (Harvanta): 10.9 to 16.4 fl oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 4 h, Bee: H, Group 28. See label for DBM resistance management.
• emamectin benzoate (Proclaim*): 2.4 to 4.8 oz/A DBM and ICW, 3.2 to 4.8 oz/A CL; PHI 7d head and stem brassicas, 14d leafy brassicas, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 6. Rotate to another product after 2 applications.
• esfenvalerate (Asana* XL): 5.8 to 9.6 oz/A for most species, 2.9 to 5.8 oz/A for ICW on broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, and Chinese cabbage; PHI 3d broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, Chinese cabbage, kohlrabi, 7d collards and mustard greens, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A. Use high rate for mustard greens. Not for DBM. Not for ICW on kohlrabi.
• fenpropathrin (Danitol* 2.4EC): 10.66 to 16 oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 24h, Bee: H, Group 3. Head and stem brassicas only. May be combined with DiPel DF; see label for rates.
• gamma-cyhalothrin (Declare*): 0.77 to 1.28 oz/A CL and ICW, 1.02 to 1.54 oz/A DBM; PHI 1d, REI 24h, Bee: H, Group 3A. Head and stem brassicas only.
• indoxacarb (Avaunt): 2.5 to 3.5 oz/A; PHI 3d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 22. Use high rate for DBM. Add a wetting agent to improve spray coverage.
• lambda-cyhalothrin (Warrior* II): 0.96 to 1.6 oz/A CL and ICW, 1.28 to 1.92 oz/A DBM; PHI 1d, REI 24h, Bee: H, Group 3A. Head and stem brassicas only.
• malathion (Malathion 57 EC): 1 to 2 pt/A broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, cabbage, and kohlrabi, 1 to 1.6 pt/A kale and mustard greens, 1.6 pt/A collards; PHI 2d broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and cauliflower, 7d cabbage, kale, collards, kohlrabi, and mustard greens, REI 48h broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, 24h kohlrabi, 12h collards, kale, and mustard greens, Bee: H, Group 1B. Not for DBM except on collards.
• methomyl (Lannate* LV): 1.5 to 3 pt/A for CL and DBM, 0.75 to 3 pt/A for ICW on broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, 1.5 to 3 pt/A for ICW on Brussels sprouts, collards, kale, mustard greens; PHI 1d cabbage, 3d broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, 10d Chinese cabbage, collards, kale, mustard greens, REI 48h, Bee: H, Group 1A. Not for ICW or DBM on Chinese cabbage. Add wetting agent to improve coverage. 
• methoxyfenozide (Intrepid 2F): 4 to 10 oz/A ICW and CL; 12 to 16 oz/A DBM; PHI 1d, REI 4h, Bee: L, Group 18. Suppression only for DBM. Use lower rates when plants are small and infestations are light for CL and ICW.
• novaluron (Rimon 0.83EC): 6 to 12 oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Bee: L, Group 16B. Not labeled for collards or kale. Most effective on 1st and 2nd instars.
• permethrin (Pounce* 25WP): 3.2 to 6.4 oz/A Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, cabbage, broccoli and kohlrabi, 3.2 to 12.8 oz/A for broccoli, Chinese broccoli, cabbage, and Chinese cabbage; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A.
• pyrethrin (PyGanic EC5.0^OG): 4.5 to 17 oz/A; 0.25 to 0.50 oz/gal, 3 gal/1000 sq ft in greenhouse for backpack sprayers; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: M, Group 3A.
• sodium tetraborohydrate decahydrate (Prev-AM): 50 oz/100 gal; REI 12h, Bee: L, Group 25. Do not apply in midday sun or mix with copper, sulfur, or oils. CL only. 
• spinetoram (Radiant SC): 5 to 10 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 4h, Bee: M, Group 5. Efficacy improves with the addition of an adjuvant.
• spinosad (Entrust SC^OG): 3 to 6 oz/A CL & ICW, 1.5 to 4 oz/A DBM; PHI 1d, REI 4h, Bee: M, Group 5. See label for resistance management restrictions for DBM.
• tebufenozide (Confirm 2F): 6 to 8 oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 4h, Bee: L, Group 18. Use low rate for early-season applications to young, small plants. Use of an adjuvant is recommended. ICW and CL only.
• tolfenpyrad (Torac): 17 to 21 fl oz/A; PHI 1 d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 21A. ICW and DBM only. 
• zeta-cypermethrin (Mustang*): 2.24 to 4 oz/A DBM, ICW, 3.2 to 4 CL; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A.

Cabbage Maggot (Delia radicum)

Cabbage root maggot is a pest of all types of brassicas, but is particularly damaging in cabbage, broccoli, Chinese cabbage, radish, turnips, and rutabaga. The first flight in April and May damages early spring brassicas, and the third flight from mid-August into September primarily injures fall root crops. Flies overwinter as pupae near roots of fall brassica crops and weeds. Adult flies become active at about 288 growing degrees days (GDD, base temperature 40°F), which occurs 1-2 weeks after forsythia starts to bloom and when yellow rocket (winter cress, Barbarea vulgaris) blooms. Fifty percent emergence (peak flight) occurs at about 450 GDD. Adult flies are delicate, hump-backed, gray-brown flies with long legs, about 5-7 mm long. Small (1.1 mm), white, bullet-shaped eggs are laid singly or in clumps in the top 1-3 inches of soil, near the stem. Wet areas with heavy or rich soil are attractive for egg-laying. Maggots are white with black mouth hooks, feed on roots, and grow to 8 mm long. The oval, brown pupae are found close to the roots. There are 2-3 generations per year in New England. Root damage causes plants to wilt, turn yellow or purple, become stunted or delayed, or die. Early infestation and large pest populations increase plant losses. Eggs are killed by exposure to soil temperatures above 95°F for several days in a row, especially in dry soil. Often these conditions occur in late May or early June.

Incorporate and disk brassica crop residues after harvest to expose and kill pupae, especially in the fall. Rotate spring crops to fields that were not planted with brassicas the previous fall. Avoid spring applications of manure or compost, which increase attractiveness of the field for egg-laying. Avoid wet fields or sections of the field. Protect spring crops with spunbonded row covers, and use covers only on rotated fields, or else the flies will emerge under the covers. Place covers over the crop at the time of seeding or transplanting and seal the edges with soil. Time your seeding or transplanting to avoid exposing young plants to peak flight periods; delay spring crops until after peak flight and when soils warm up. 

Most labeled materials are labeled only for use pre-plant, at the time of planting or seeding—either in the seed furrow or as a transplant drench—or immediately after setting transplants. Use pre- or at-plant treatments only if damaging populations are expected, such as in fields with high organic matter or a history of infestations. Scout transplant trays before setting out plants in the field. Treat transplants if eggs are found in the tray by adding insecticide to transplant water, or as a post-plant drench, as labels allow. A pencil is a good tool to gently stir the soil at the base of the plant and look for eggs. Yellow sticky cards placed near brassicas capture adult flies, and along with GDD, are a good indicator of the onset of adult flight. Scout for eggs—in transplant trays and the field—as soon as flies are active. In the field, finding an average of 1egg per plant can indicate a damaging population. Again, control options are limited once plants are in the field, but scouting to understand infestation levels can help inform management decisions in future plantings. Resistance to organophosphate (Group 1B) insecticides has been documented; rotate among chemical classes where possible to slow development of resistance. 

• bifenthrin (Capture LFR): 3.4 to 6.8 oz/A; REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3. Apply as a 5- to 7-inch T-band over the open seed furrow, or in-furrow with the seed. Head and stem brassicas only. 
• chlorantraniliprole (Coragen): 3.5 to 7.5 oz/A; PHI 3d, REI 4h, Bee: L, Group 28. May only be applied as transplant water treatment to soil at planting. For suppression only.
• cyantraniliprole (Verimark): 10 to 13.5 oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: H, Group 28. For soil applications at planting.
• diazinon (Diazinon* AG500): 2 to 3 qt/A (pre-plant broadcast and incorporation applications), 4 to 8 oz/50 gal water (transplant water drench); PHI 7d, REI 4 days, Bee: H, Group 1B. Broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower only. Transplant water treatments may result in stand reduction due to plant stress at time of transplanting.
• spinetoram (Radiant SC): 5 to 10 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 4h, Bee: M, Group 5. Suppression only. For direct-seeded crops, apply directly to base of plants and adjacent soil when crop has developed to the two true leaf stage, and make second application 2-3 weeks later. For transplanted crops, apply immediately after transplanting and make second application 2-3 weeks later. A third application may be needed under high pest pressure conditions, such as when there is a large amount of debris from a previous brassica crop or when adjacent brassica fields are being harvested. For optimum control, direct the spray in a narrow band at the base of the plants. Do not make more than 3 applications of Group 5 insecticides (spinetoram and spinosad) per crop cycle for cabbage root maggot suppression. For brassica leafy vegetables only (e.g., broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, kale). Not for brassica roots (e.g., radish, turnip). 
• spinosad (Entrust SC^OG): 5 to 10 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 4h, Bee: M, Group 5. Suppression only. For direct-seeded crops, apply directly to base of plants and adjacent soil when crop has developed to the two true leaf stage, and make second application 2-3 weeks later. For transplanted crops, apply immediately after transplanting and make second application 2-3 weeks later. A third application may be needed under high pest pressure conditions, such as when there is a large amount of debris from a previous brassica crop or when adjacent brassica fields are being harvested. For optimum control, direct the spray in a narrow band at the base of the plants. Do not make more than three applications of Group 5 insecticides (spinetoram and spinosad) per crop cycle for cabbage root maggot suppression. For brassica leafy vegetables only (e.g., broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, kale). Not for brassica roots (e.g., radish, turnip). 
• tolfenpyrad (Torac): 21 fl oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 21A.

Cabbage Whitefly (Aleyrodes proletella)

An emerging pest in the Northeast United States, cabbage whitefly originates from Europe and is a pest in many areas of the world. Adults are small (1.5 mm) with white wings, and can be distinguished from greenhouse and sweet potato whitefly by 2 gray blotches on each forewing. Eggs are laid in a half-moon or circular pattern on the undersides of leaves. Immature stages are flat and scale-like. Both adults and nymphs feed on plant sap. Large populations will reduce plant vigor and quality, and adults and nymphs deposit honeydew on leaf surfaces on which sooty mold grows. Cabbage whitefly feeds and reproduces on brassicas, as well as other crops and weeds such as alfalfa, fava bean and dandelion. Preferred hosts are kale and Brussels sprouts.

• beta-cyfluthrin (Baythroid* XL): 3.2 oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A. For suppression of adults only.
• bifenthrin (Brigade* 2EC): 2.1 to 6.4 oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A.
• Chromobacterium subtsugae strain PRAA4-1 (Grandevo^OG): 2 to 3 lb/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: M, Group UN.
• chlothianidin (Belay): 3 to 4 fl oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 4A. Suppression only. Do not use on crops grown for seed. Must not be applied during bloom or when bees are foraging. 
• cyantraniliprole (Exirel): 13.5 to 20.5 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 28.
• cyantraniliprole (Verimark): 6.75 to 13.5 oz/A at planting, 6.75 to 10 oz/A chemigation; PHI 1d, REI 4h, Bee: H, Group 28. For soil applications at planting, drip chemigation, or soil injection. Allow 1-3 days for material to be translocated into aerial portions of the plant. When populations are high, use a foliar control during this period.
• dinotefuran (Venom): 1 to 4 oz/A foliar or 5 to 7.5 oz/A soil for heading brassicas, 2 to 3 oz/acre for leafy brassicas; PHI 1d foliar, PHI 21d soil, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 4A. Soil application may be as a band during bedding, in-furrow at seeding, as a transplant or post-seeding drench, as a sidedress, or through drip.
• flupyradifurone (Sivanto): 10.5 to 14 oz/A foliar, 21 to 28 oz/A soil; PHI 1d foliar, 45d soil, REI 4h, Bee: L, Group 4D.
• gamma-cyhalothrin (Declare*): 1.02 to 1.54 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 24h, Bee: H, Group 3A. Suppression only. Head and stem brassicas only. 
• imidacloprid (Admire Pro): 4.4 to 10.5 oz/A soil, 1.3 oz/A foliar, 0.44 oz/10,000 plants on seedling transplants in greenhouse; PHI 21d soil, PHI 7d foliar, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 4A. Planthouse applications only provide short-term protection; an additional field application must be made within 2 weeks following transplanting to provide continuous protection.
• insecticidal soap (M-Pede^OG): 1.25 to 2.5 oz/gal water; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: L. Spray to wet all infested plant surfaces. May need to make repeated applications. For enhanced and residual control, apply with a companion labeled insecticide.
• lambda-cyhalothrin (Warrior* II): 1.28 to 1.92 oz/A; PHI 5d, REI 24h, Bee: H, Group 3A. Suppression only. Head and stem brassicas only.
• petroleum oil (Suffoil X^OG): 1 to 2 gal/100 gal water; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: L.
• pymetrozine (Fulfill): 2.75 oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Bee: L, Group 9A. Suppression only. Apply when whiteflies first appear.
• pyrethrin (PyGanic EC5.0^OG): 4.5 to 17 oz/A, 0.25 to 0.50 oz/gal, 3 gal/1000 sq ft in greenhouse for backpack sprayers; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: M, Group 3A.
• pyriproxyfen (Knack): 8 to 10 fl oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Bee: L, Group 7C. Insect growth regulator, only effective on immature stages. Higher water volumes may provide improved control. 
• spiromesifen (Oberon 2SC): 7 to 8.5 oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Bee: M, Group 23. Most effective on egg and immature stages. Complete coverage is necessary. An adjuvant may be used to improve coverage and control. 
• thiamethoxam (Actara): 3.0 to 5.5 oz/A; PHI 7d leafy brassica greens, 0d head and stem brassicas, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 4A.
• thiamethoxam (Platinum): 5 to 11 oz/A; PHI 30d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 4A. Systemic insecticide used in an in-furrow, banded, drench, or drip irrigation application to the seedling root zone during or after transplanting operations or shanked into root zone after transplanting or establishment.

Cross-striped Cabbageworm (Evergestis rimosalis)

Formerly restricted to areas south of New England, this insect is now a significant pest of brassicas in CT, RI and MA. It has 2-3 generations per year and is most abundant on late-season plantings. Unlike the other major caterpillar pests on brassicas, the cross-striped cabbageworm (CSCW) lays its eggs in clusters of 3-25 rather than singly, infested plants have many caterpillars and are often completely skeletonized while adjacent plants may be left undamaged. Egg clusters are yellow, flattened, overlapping like fish scales, and attached to the lower leaf surfaces. Larvae grow to 3/4 in. long in 2-3 weeks. The caterpillars are light bluish-grey on top and green underneath, with numerous black bands across their backs and a yellow stripe down each side. Pupation takes place in soil, near the surface. Caterpillars produce small holes in leaves until only veins remain; they target terminal buds and sprouts and may burrow into heads. Plow under debris after harvest and control wild mustard and Shepherd's purse to help reduce pest populations. Scout weekly for caterpillars and damage. Spray if 5% of the plants are infested with CSCW. Use selective insecticides to preserve parasitic wasps.

• azadirachtin & pyrethrins (Azera^OG): 16 to 56 oz/A foliar, drench, and greenhouse applications; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: M, Groups UN & 3A.
• Bacillus thuringiensis aizawai (XenTari^OG): 0.5 to 1.5 lb/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: L, Group 11. Must be ingested; apply in evening or early morning, before larvae are actively feeding. Adherence and weather-fastness will improve with use of an approved spreader-sticker. Use high rate at cool temperatures. For resistance management, may be rotated with Bt kurstaki products (Dipel).
• Bacillus thuringiensis kurstaki (Dipel DF^OG): 0.5 to 2 lb/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: L, Group 11. Must be ingested; apply in evening or early morning, before larvae are actively feeding. Adherence and weather-fastness will improve with use of an approved spreader-sticker. Use high rate at cool temperatures. For resistance management, may be rotated with Bt aizawai products (XenTari).
• chlorantraniliprole (Coragen): 3.5 to 7.5 oz/A; PHI 3d, REI 4h, Bee: L, Group 28. May be applied to soil at planting, through drip chemigation, and as a foliar spray.
• Chromobacterium subtsugae strain PRAA4-1 (Grandevo ^OG): 1 to 3 lb/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: M, Group UN.
• cyclaniliprole (Harvanta): 10.9 to 16.4 fl oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 4 h, Bee: H, Group 28.
• emamectin benzoate (Proclaim*): 2.4 to 4.8 oz/A; PHI 7d head and stem brassicas, 14d leafy brassicas and turnip greens, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 6. Rotate to another product after 2 applications.
• fenpropathrin (Danitol* 2.4EC): 10.66 to 16 oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 24, Bee: H, Group 3. Head and stem brassicas only. May be combined at with Dipel DF for control of other caterpillars; see label for rates.
• indoxacarb (Avaunt): 2.5 to 3.5 oz/A; PHI 3d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 22. Add a wetting agent to improve spray coverage.
• methoxyfenozide (Intrepid 2F): 8 to 10 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 4h, Bee: L, Group 18.
• pyrethrin (PyGanic EC5.0^OG): 4.5 to 17 oz/A; 0.25 to 0.50 oz/gal, 3 gal/1000 sq ft in greenhouse for backpack sprayers; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: M, Group 3A.
• tebufenozide (Confirm 2F): 6 to 8 oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 4h, Bee: L, Group 18. Use low rate for early season applications to young, small plants. Use of an adjuvant is recommended.

Cutworm

See cutworms in the Pepper and Outdoor Tomato sections for more information on black and variegated cutworms.

• alpha-cypermethrin (Fastac* EC): 2.2 to 3.8 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A.
• Bacillus thuringiensis aizawai (XenTari^OG): 0.5 to 1.5 lb/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: L, Group 11. Must be ingested; apply in evening or early morning, before larvae are actively feeding. Adherence and weather-fastness will improve with use of an approved spreader-sticker. Use high rate at cool temperatures. For resistance management, may be rotated with Bt kurstaki products (Dipel).
• Bacillus thuringiensis kurstaki (Dipel DF^OG): 0.5 to 2 lb/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: L, Group 11. Must be ingested; apply in evening or early morning, before larvae are actively feeding. Adherence and weather-fastness will improve with use of an approved spreader-sticker. Use high rate at cool temperatures. For resistance management, may be rotated with Bt aizawai products (XenTari).
• beta-cyfluthrin (Baythroid* XL): 0.8 to 1.6 oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A.
• bifenthrin (Brigade* 2EC): 2.1 to 6.4 oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A.
• carbaryl (10% Sevin Granules): 20 lb/A; PHI 3d broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower and kohlrabi, 14d Chinese cabbage, collards, kale, mustard greens, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 1A. For broadcast treatment only. Use within 30 days of crop emergence or transplanting.
• Chromobacterium subtsugae strain PRAA4-1 (Grandevo^OG): 1 to 3 lb/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: M, Group UN.
• cryolite (Prokil Cryolite): 8 to 16 lb/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Bee:L, Group UN. Broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and cauliflower only. 
• diazinon (Diazinon* AG500): 2 to 4 qt/A broadcast and incorporate before planting; REI 24h, Bee: H, Group 1B. Broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, collards, kale, mustard greens, and cauliflower only.
• esfenvalerate (Asana*XL): 5.8 to 9.6 oz/A; PHI 3d, PHI 7d collards, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A. Broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, Chinese cabbage, and collards only.
• fenpropathrin (Danitol* 2.4EC): 10.66 to 16 oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 24h, Bee: H, Group 3. Head and stem brassicas only. 
• gamma-cyhalothrin (Declare*): 0.77 to 1.28 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 24h, Bee: H, Group 3A. Head and stem brassicas only.
• lambda-cyhalothrin (Warrior* II): 0.96 to 1.6 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 24h, Bee: H, Group 3A. Head and stem brassicas only.
• methomyl (Lannate* LV): 1.5 pt/A; PHI 1d cabbage, 3d Brussels sprouts and cauliflower, 10d collards, REI 48h, Bee: H, Group 1A. Variegated cutworm only.
• methoxyfenozide (Intrepid 2F): 4 to 10 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 4h, Bee: L, Group 18. Suppression only.
• permethrin (Pounce* 25WP): 6.4 to 12.8 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A. Cabbage and Chinese cabbage only.
• spinosad (Seduce^OG): 20 to 44 lb/A, 0.5 to1 lb/1000 sq ft; PHI 1d, REI 4h, Bee: M, Group 5. Spread bait on soil around plants.
• zeta-cypermethrin (Mustang*): 2.24 to 4 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A.

Flea Beetles (Phyllotreta cruciferae and P. striolata)

In New England, 2 species of flea beetle are found on brassicas: the crucifer flea beetle (Phyllotreta cruciferae), which is uniformly black and shiny, and the striped flea beetle (P. striolata), which is black with 2 yellow stripes on its back. Both are about 2mm in length. Both species feed only on brassicas, and attack all types of brassica crops and weeds. Populations have increased over the past twenty-five years, so that on many farms flea beetle is a key pest of brassicas. Adult beetles overwinter outside cropped fields, in the soil surface and decaying plant residue of shrubby or woody borders. They search out host crops from early May into June and feed on leaves and stems, leaving small round pits and holes. Beetles hop quickly off the plant when disturbed. Eggs are laid in soil near the plant. Tiny white larvae feed on root hairs and pupate underground. New adults emerge from mid-July through early August and feed throughout August. Spring crops are damaged by over-wintered adults, while fall crops are damaged by summer adults, but it may be difficult to distinguish the generations when pressure is severe. Feeding generally declines in September, as adults leave fields for overwintering. There may be a small second generation of adults, which emerges in late September. Heavy feeding can kill seedlings, and moderate damage can stunt growth, delay maturity, reduce yield, and make crops unmarketable. Crops with more waxy leaves (Brassica oleracea crops such as cabbage, broccoli, and kale) are less attractive and feeding is more restricted to leaf margins, especially as crop matures. Crops with glossy leaves (B. rapa crops such bok choy and Napa cabbage or B. juncea crops such as mustard) are highly attractive; the whole leaf is damaged and the crop is susceptible until harvest.

Escape peak adult activity and avoid the buildup of high populations by rotating spring crops as far as possible from last season's fall brassica crops, and planting late-season crops far from early brassicas. Where feasible, avoiding all early brassicas (until July) can be used to break the reproductive cycle. Incorporate and till crops immediately after harvest to expose and kill larvae and pupae. Provide adequate water and nutrients for crop growth. Avoid soil compaction. Floating row covers provide excellent protection of the crop if well-secured with soil or sand bags around all edges immediately after seeding or transplanting. Remove and replace the same day for cultivation, as needed. Use attractive brassica types (B. rapa or B. juncea) on borders or within the field as a trap crop to draw beetles away from less attractive types. Spray the trap crop to suppress beetles in the whole field, and to protect the trap crop for harvest. Scout across the field by counting beetles from above, then under the leaves, and estimating % leaf damage. Because brassica crops differ greatly in susceptibility and attractiveness there is no fixed economic threshold that applies to all crops and crop stages. A working threshold of 1 beetle per plant or >10% average leaf damage on 50% of the plants has proved effective in leafy greens and early stages of heading brassicas. Repeated applications may be needed if pressure is high.

• alpha-cypermethrin (Fastac* EC): 2.2 to 3.8 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A.
• azadirachtin (Azatin O^OG): 4 to 16 oz/A foliar or drench, 4 to 16 oz/100 gal in greenhouses; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: L, Group UN. When using lower rates, combine with adjuvant for improved spray coverage and translaminar uptake.
• azadirachtin & pyrethrins (Azera^OG): 16 to 56 oz/A foliar, drench, and greenhouse applications; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: M, Groups UN & 3A.
• beta-cyfluthrin (Baythroid* XL): 2.4 to 3.2 oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A. Cabbage flea beetle only.
• bifenthrin (Brigade* 2EC): 2.1 to 6.4 oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A.
• carbaryl (Sevin XLR Plus): 0.5 to 1 qt/A; PHI 3d cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli, Brussel sprouts, kohlrabi, 14d kale, collards, Chinese cabbage, mustard, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 1A.
• cryolite (Prokil Cryolite): 8 to 16 lb/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Bee: L, Group UN. Broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and cauliflower only. 
• cyantraniliprole (Exirel): 13.5 to 20.5 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 28.
• cyantraniliprole (Verimark): 6.75 to 13.5 oz/A at planting, 6.75 to 10 oz/A chemigation; PHI 1d chemigation, REI 4h, Bee: H, Group 28. 
• cyclaniliprole (Harvanta): 16.4 fl oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 4 h, Bee: H, Group 28.
• dinotefuran (Venom): 1 to 4 oz/A for foliar application to head and stem brassicas, 2 to 3 oz/A for foliar application to leafy brassicas; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 4A.
• esfenvalerate (Asana* XL): 5.8 to 9.6 oz/A; PHI 3d broccoli, cabbage, Chinese cabbage, and cauliflower, 7d collards, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A. Broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, Chinese cabbage, and collards only.
• fenpropathrin (Danitol* 2.4EC): 10.66 to 16 oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 24h, Bee: H, Group 3. Head and stem brassicas only. Do not apply during bloom or if bees are actively foraging. May be combined with Belay (see label for rates).
• gamma-cyhalothrin (Declare*): 1.02 to 1.54 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 24h, Bee: H, Group 3A. Head and stem brassicas only.
• imidacloprid (Admire Pro): 1.3 oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 4A. Foliar applications only.
• kaolin (Surround WP^OG): 25 to 50 lb/A or 0.25 to 0.5 lb/gal; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: L. Suppression and repellence only. May be applied to transplants prior to setting in field. Use on seedlings and young plants. White residue is difficult to wash off leaves and heads; use only on very young leaves or leaves that will not be harvested.
• lambda-cyhalothrin (Warrior* II): 1.28 to 1.92 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 24h, Bee: H, Group 3A. Head and stem brassicas only.
• permethrin (Pounce* 25WP): 6.4 to 12.8 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A. Cabbage and Chinese cabbage only.
• petroleum oil (Suffoil X^OG): 1 to 2 gal/100 gal water; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: L. Apply as needed. For beetle larvae only. 
• pyrethrin (PyGanic EC5.0^OG): 4.5 to 17 oz/A; 0.25 to 0.50 oz/gal, 3 gal/1000 sq ft in greenhouse for backpack sprayers; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: M, Group 3A.
• spinosad (Entrust SC^OG): 4 to 8 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 4h, Bee: M, Group 5. Suppression only.
• thiamethoxam (Actara): 1.5 to 3 oz/A; PHI 7d leafy brassica greens, 0d head and stem brassicas, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 4A.
• thiamethoxam (Platinum): 5 to 11 oz/A; PHI 30d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 4A. Systemic insecticide used as an in-furrow, banded, drench, or drip irrigation application to the seed/seedling root zone during or after planting/transplanting operations or shanked into root zone after transplanting or establishment.
• tolfenpyrad (Torac): 17 to 21 fl oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 21A.
• zeta-cypermethrin (Mustang*): 2.24 to 4 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A.

Onion Thrips (Thrips tabaci)

Onion thrips can be a significant problem on cabbage, where thrips feed on inner leaves of the head which are difficult to target by spraying. Damage may also occur on leafy brassicas such as broccoli, kale and collards, especially fall crops that are planted near a maturing onion crop. Thrips cause rough, golden or brown scars to form on the underside of open leaves, or produce scars and discolored layers within cabbage heads. Inspection with a 10X lens shows wounds to the epidermis from the rasping mouthparts, and scars from wounds that healed over. Thrips damage can be confused with oedema, a physiological disorder. See onion thrips in the Onion section for more information on identification, life cycle and management. Damage is most severe in hot, dry weather.

Tolerant varieties are the most cost-effective means of controlling thrips in cabbage. Varietal resistance is generally not available in other brassicas. Consult your seed suppliers and search recent research trials regarding thrips tolerance on new varieties.

Avoid thrips by planting cabbage or fall brassica crops far from alliums, or field crops such as alfalfa, clover, wheat, or oats, as these crops may harbor large populations of thrips that may migrate to brassicas when these crops are cut or harvested. Scout young plants for thrips presence and feeding injury. Begin insecticide applications when damage is first noticed; in cabbage, apply foliar treatments before heads form. In fall brassicas, the need for thrips controls may coincide with sprays for flea beetle or caterpillars and some insecticides control both/all of these pests. Repeat applications at 7- to 10-day intervals, based on scouting. Use a shorter interval in hot, dry weather. Use spreader-sticker for better coverage. Apply in early evening, using high pressure and 100 gal water/A, for best results. Systemic insecticides applied as a side dress up to 4-6 weeks after transplanting may provide adequate control in long-season cabbage. Rotate between insecticide groups to prevent or delay resistance.

• acetamiprid (Assail 30SG): 4 oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 4A. Applications during the "cupping" stage of cabbage may be especially helpful in preventing injury.
• alpha-cypermethrin (Fastac* EC): 3.2 to 3.8 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A.
• azadirachtin (Azatin O^OG): 4 to 16 oz/A foliar or drench, 4 to 16 oz/100 gal in greenhouses; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: L, Group UN. When using lower rates, combine with adjuvant for improved spray coverage and translaminar uptake.
• Beauveria bassiana (Mycotrol ESO): 8 to 32 oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: L, Group UN. Thoroughly cover foliage. Takes 7-10 days after application to see control.
• beta-cyfluthrin (Baythroid* XL): 0.8 to 1.6 oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A.
• bifenthrin (Brigade* 2EC): 2.1 to 6.4 oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A.
• Chromobacterium subtsugae strain PRAA4-1 (Grandevo^OG): 2 to 3 lb/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: M, Group UN.
• cyantraniliprole (Exirel): 13.5 to 20.5 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 28. Suppression only.
• cyantraniliprole (Verimark): 10 to 13.5 oz/A at planting, 10 oz/A chemigation; PHI 1d chemigation, REI 4h, Bee: H, Group 28. Suppression only.
• dinotefuran (Safari 20SG): 0.16 to 0.32 dry oz/1,000 sq ft or 7 to 14 oz/A; REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 4A. Broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, and kohlrabi transplants only while in greenhouse. Not for field use. Suppression only.
• gamma-cyhalothrin (Declare*): 1.02 to 1.54 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 24h, Bee: H, Group 3A. Suppression only. Head and stem brassicas only.
• imidacloprid (Admire Pro): 4.4 to 10.5 oz/A; PHI 21d soil, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 4A. Soil applications only.
• insecticidal soap (M-Pede^OG): 1.25 to 2.5 oz/gal water; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: L. Spray to wet all infested plant surfaces. May need to make repeated applications. For enhanced and residual control, apply with companion labeled inseccticide.
• lambda-cyhalothrin (Warrior* II): 1.28 to 1.92 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 24h, Bee: H, Group 3A. Head and stem brassicas only. Suppression only.
• novaluron (Rimon 0.83EC): 12 oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Bee: L, Group 16B. Most effective on immature stages. Not for collards and kale. 
• permethrin (Pounce* 25WP): 3.2 to 6.4 oz/A Brussels sprouts and cauliflower, 3.2 to 12.8 oz/A broccoli and Chinese broccoli; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A.
• petroleum oil (Suffoil X^OG): 1 to 2 gal/100 gal water; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: L.
• pyrethrin (PyGanic EC5.0^OG): 4.5 to 17 oz/A; 0.25 to 0.50 oz/gal, 3 gal/1000 sq ft in greenhouse for backpack sprayers; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: M, Group 3A.
• spinetoram (Radiant SC): 6 to 10 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 4h, Bee: M, Group 5. Efficacy improves with the addition of an adjuvant.
• spinosad (Entrust SC^OG): 4 to 10 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 4h, Bee: M, Group 5. Efficacy improves with the addition of an adjuvant.
• sulfoxaflor (Closer SC): 5.75 oz/A; PHI 3d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 4C. Suppression only.
• thiamethoxam (Actara): 3 to 5.5 oz/A; PHI 7d leafy brassica greens, 0d head and stem brassicas, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 4A.
• thiamethoxam (Platinum): 5 to 11 oz/A; PHI 30d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 4A. Systemic insecticide used as an in-furrow, banded, drench, or drip irrigation application to the seed/seedling root zone during or after planting/transplanting operations or shanked into root zone after transplanting or establishment.
• zeta-cypermethrin (Mustang*): 3.2 to 4 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A.

Slugs

There are several species of slugs that damage vegetable crops in New England, including grey garden, banded, marsh and spotted garden slugs. They may be dark gray, black, yellow or brown, covered with spots, and range from ¾ to nearly 4" long. Eggs may be laid several times per year, and slugs reach maturity in 3-6 months. They can become abundant in low- and no-till situations, in land that was recently fallow, along hedgerows, or wherever plant debris, mulches, stones, or boards provide cover and daytime hiding places. Slugs usually feed at night but may also feed during the day during prolonged periods of cloudy wet weather. They are attracted to succulent leaves in moist environments, such as cabbage, pak choi, and Chinese cabbage. They will also feed on fruiting crops such as tomato, pepper and eggplant. Damage appears as shredded foliage or shallow holes in fruit. They have a rasp-like tongue that wears a hole through the leaf instead of making a clean cut like a caterpillar or beetle. On some thick-leaved brassicas such as cabbage, the hole will appear larger on one leaf surface and taper to a smaller hole in the opposite surface. Scout by looking for silvery slime trails on leaves or turn over soil clods or debris to find slugs during daylight hours, or scout plants after dusk. Slug populations can also be monitored with unbaited traps consisting of 6-inch deep holes covered with foil-covered shingles, which provide a cool hiding place during the day. To control slugs use habitat and cultural management supplemented by handpicking or trapping (on a small scale), repellents and toxic baits. Grow plants away from moist, shaded habitats, use clean cultivation, control weeds, and eliminate hiding places. Use trickle irrigation instead of overhead to reduce humidity and moist surfaces. On a small scale, handpick slugs after dusk using gloves and drop slugs in soapy water; repeat for several days. Baits should be applied to the ground near infested plants. It may be necessary to reapply after a rain, or make multiple applications when populations are high.

• iron phosphate (Sluggo: Snail and Slug Bait^OG): 20 to 44 lb/A; PHI 0d, REI 0h, Bee: L, Group 9B. Apply around perimeter, scatter around base of plants, or band down rows. Apply to moist soil in the evening.
• metaldehyde (Deadline Bullets): 20 to 40 lb/A; REI 12h, Bee: L. Soil surface treatment broadcast pre-planting, or band treatment between rows after formation of edible parts. Apply to moist soil in the evening. Do not apply directly to or contaminate edible portions of plants.

Swede Midge (Contarinia nasturtii)

A serious pest of crucifers in Europe. Recently introduced into North America, currently established in northwestern Vermont, with range expanding southward and eastward. Adults are tiny (1/16 in.), weak-flying, brown flies. Larvae are 1/8-inch long maggots that are translucent when small and turn yellow as they grow. They spend the winter as pupae in the top 2 in. of soil. Maggots infest the tissue near the growing tip and produce malformed plants with brown corky tissue, galls, no-heads, multi-heads, and twisted leaf petioles. Damage is most severe on broccoli, Chinese broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower and brassica greens. There may be 3-4 generations each year. Scout young plants near field borders and tree lines prior to heading or at the pre-cupping stage. Avoid importing infested plants by using New England-grown transplants. Use a 3-year crop rotation. Plant spring brassicas at least 1/2 mile from fall brassica fields. Deep plowing destroys pupae. Spring plantings may avoid peak populations later in the season. If possible, plant away from tree lines that shelter weak-flying adults. Report and confirm infestations to a state IPM specialist or to your state plant diagnostic lab.

• acetamiprid (Assail 30SG): 4 oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 4.
• azadirachtin & pyrethrins (Azera^OG): 16 to 56 oz/A foliar, drench, and greenhouse applications; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: M, Groups UN & 3A.
• Burkholderia spp. strain A396 (Venerate XC^OG): 2 to 4 qt/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: M, Group UN. Suppression only.
• spirotetramat (Movento): 4 to 5 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 24h, Bee: M, Group 23. Must be tank-mixed with a spray adjuvant with spreading and penetrating properties to maximize leaf uptake and sytemicity; don't use sticker adjuvants. Controls immature stages; may also reduce adult fertility.

NOTES: For the herbicides listed below, one product trade name and formulation is provided for each active ingredient along with preharvest interval (PHI), restricted entry interval (REI), resistance management group number, and example of rates and special instructions. In many cases, there are other products available with the same active ingredient. However, not all products with the same active ingredient are registered for use in a crop. Always check the product label to be sure that the crop is listed before using. 

Stale Seedbed

See Stale Seedbed Technique for information on the use of these herbicides or flaming.

• carfentrazone (Aim EC): PHI 0d, REI 12h, Group 14.
• glyphosate (Roundup Power Max): PHI 14d, REI 4h, Group 9.
• paraquat (Gramoxone SL 2.0*): REI 12h or 24h, Group 22. *Restricted use: Applicators must complete an EPA-approved paraquat training every 3 years: https://www.epa.gov/pesticide-worker-safety/paraquat-dichloride-training-certified-applicators. 
• pelargonic acid (Scythe): PHI 1d, REI 12h, Group 0.

Preemergent Herbicides (before weeds germinate)

• bensulide (Prefar 4E): REI 12h, Group 0. Apply 5-6 qt/A per application, only 1 application per year. Can be applied before planting or after planting before crop has emerged. Incorporate 1-2” into the soil within 36 hours by shallow cultivation or with water through irrigation or rainfall. Grass control only; should be supplemented with cultivation or another registered herbicide for broadleaf control.
• napropamide (Devrinol 2-XT): REI 24h, Group 0. Apply up to 2 qt/A per application, only 1 application allowed per year. Apply in 10-100 gal/A of spray. Can be applied after direct seeding or transplanting. Incorporated 4-8” into the soil with shallow cultivation or water through irrigation or rainfall within 24 to 72 hours of application.
• oxyfluorfen (Goal 2 XL): REI 24h, Group 14. Transplanted broccoli, cabbage, and cauliflower only. Apply 1-2 pt/A per application, only 1 application allowed per year. The soil surface should be free of excessive plant residue before applying. Apply to the final seedbed before transplanting and minimize soil disturbance when transplanting. Rate based on soil texture and organic matter, use lower rates on sandy soils. Temporary crop injury may occur, especially if leaves come into contact with treated soil. Applications made to stressed transplants may lead to crop damage and reduced yields. To decrease the risk of injury, plant transplants that are hardened off, older, and grown in containers larger than 1 square inch.
• pendimethalin (Prowl H2O): PHI 60d for broccoli, 70d for all others, REI 24h, Group 3. For broccoli, brussels sprouts, cabbage, and cauliflower only. Apply 1-2.1 pt/A per application, only 1 application per year. Apply as a directed spray to the soil beneath plants and between vegetative rows of brassica head and stem vegetables. Apply when crop is at the 2- to 4-leaf stage. For transplants this will be about 1-3 days after transplanting. Do not spray foliage or stems because crop injury will occur. If rainfall or irrigation does not occur, mechanically incorporate to activate the herbicide.
• s-metolachlor (Dual Magnum): REI 24h, Group 15. MASSACHUSETTS and NEW HAMPSHIRE only: For broccoli, cabbage, and leafy brassica greens only. MAINE: cabbage only. Make sure the label for your state is available for download before using this product. This is a restricted label available only to growers who apply through the website www.syngenta-us.com/labels/indemnified-label-login and agree to a waiver of liability. Main target weeds for this registration are galinsoga and yellow nutsedge.
• sulfentrazone (Aquesta 4F): REI 12h, Group 14. For head and stem and cabbage transplants apply 2.25-12 oz/A per application. Do not exceed 12 oz/A per year. For leafy greens apply 2.25-6.4 oz/A per application. Do not exceed 6.4 oz/A per year. Rate based on soil texture, organic matter and soil pH. Do not use on soils that contain less than 1% organic matter. Product is not to be incorporated any deeper than 2” into the soil. Do not apply to soils that are frozen or have an existing snow cover. For head and stem/leafy greens: Apply to stubble or the soil surface in the fall or in the spring up to 72 hours before transplanting. For cabbage transplants: Apply to stubble or the soil surface, in the fall, or in the spring from 60 days before planting or transplanting up to 72 hours after transplanting. Application can be broadcast or banded. Preemergence applications up to 72 hours after transplanting should be a banded treatment in the row middles. For all brassicas types, if applying in spring prior to transplanting, can shallowly incorporate up to 2” into the soil.
• trifluralin (Treflan HFP): REI 12h, Group 3. Apply 1-2 pt/A per application, only 1 application per year. Apply before direct-seeding or transplanting and incorporate 2-3” into the soil of the final seedbed. Rate depends on soil texture, percent organic matter, rainfall, type of brassica, and whether they're grown for greens. Chinese cabbage and kohlrabi may be especially sensitive, so if applications are made when they are stressed, crop damage and yield reduction may occur.

Postemergent Herbicides (after weeds germinate)

• carfentrazone (Aim EC): PHI 0d, REI 12h, Group 14. Apply 0.5-2 oz/A per application, multiple applications allowed per year. Do not exceed 6.1 oz/A per season. Can be applied as a preplant burndown no later than 7 days before direct-seeding or immediately before transplanting. Can also be applied to row middles of emerged crops with hooded sprayers to control emerged weeds. Prevent any spray from contacting the crop, or injury will occur. For best results, make application to actively growing weeds up to 4” tall and rosettes less than 3” across.
• clethodim (Select Max): PHI 30d head and stem brassicas, 14d leafy greens, REI 24h, Group 1. Apply 9-16 oz/A per application, up to 4 applications per year, a minimum of 14 days apart. Do not exceed 64 oz/A per year. Apply to actively growing grasses. Add 0.25% v:v nonionic surfactant (1 qt/100 gal of spray). Can also be applied as a spot-spray by mixing 0.33-0.66% (0.44-0.85 oz/gal) Select Max and 0.25% v:v nonionic surfactant (0.33 oz/gal). Spray to wet, but do not allow runoff of spray solution.
• clomazone (Command 3ME): PHI 45d, REI 12h, Group 13. For all brassicas (direct-seeded or transplanted) apply 10.7-21.3 oz/A per application, only 1 application per year. For transplanted cabbage (not direct-seeded), apply up to 21.3 fl oz/A per application, only 1 application per year. Apply within 72 hours for all transplanted brassicas, except broccoli and Chinese broccoli, which should be treated within 48 hours of transplanting. Apply after direct-seeding brassicas, prior to emergence. Use lower rates on coarse soil and higher rates on fine soils. Apply in a minimum of 10 gal/A of spray. Place roots of transplants below the treated soil when planting. There is limited local data available for Clomazone, so crop tolerance should be verified before treating the entire field.
• clopyralid (Stinger): PHI 30d, REI 12h, Group 4. Apply 4-8 oz/A per application, up to 2 applications allowed per year. Do not exceed 8 oz/A per year. Rate based on weed composition. Apply in 10-40 gal/A of spray. Spray additives are not recommended.
• glyphosate (Roundup Power Max): PHI 7d, REI 4h, Group 9. Apply 15 oz to 3.1 qts/A per application, multiple applications allowed per year. Do not exceed 5 qts/A per year. Rate based on target weed species. Can be applied during fallow intervals, prior to planting or transplanting, at planting, or before crop has emerged. May cause injury when applied prior to transplanting or direct-seeding into plastic mulch. Remove residual product from plastic mulch with a 0.5” of water through irrigation or rainfall prior to planting.
• paraquat (Gramoxone SL 2.0*): REI 12h or 24h, Group 22. Apply 1.3-2.7 pts/A per application. Up to 3 applications allowed per year, a minimum of 7 days apart. Do not exceed 8 pts/A per year. May be fatal if swallowed or inhaled. *Restricted use: Applicators must complete an EPA-approved paraquat training every 3 years: https://www.epa.gov/pesticide-worker-safety/paraquat-dichloride-training-certified-applicators.
• pelargonic acid (Scythe): PHI 1d, REI 12h, Group 0. Apply a 3-10% solution (3-10 gallons per 100 gallons of spray). Rate based on target weed species. Apply in 75-200 gal/A of spray or with a spot sprayer until foliage is wet but not to the point of runoff. Repeat applications as necessary. Can apply for vegetative burndown during site preparation, prior to crop emergence from soil, as a directed and shielded spray during crop growth taking care to avoid contact with foliage and green tissue of crops, or after harvest.
• sethoxydim (Poast): PHI 30d, 14d for mustard greens, REI 12h, Group 1. Apply up to 1.5 pt/A per application, multiple applications allowed per year, a minimum of 14 days apart. Do not exceed 3 pts/A per year. Apply to actively growing grasses. Use with crop oil concentrate (2 pt/A) or methylated seed oil (1.5 pt/A). Crop oil can cause injury under hot and humid conditions. Can also be applied as a spot-spray by mixing 1-1.5% (1.3-1.9 oz/gal) Poast and 1% v:v crop oil concentrate (1.3 oz/gal). Spray to wet, but do not allow runoff of spray solution.

Buttoning and Lack of Heads (Broccoli and Cauliflower)

Buttoning refers to premature formation of broccoli or cauliflower heads. It occurs when transplants do not have enough leaves to support a head of a marketable size. Buttoning is most common when young plants are transplanted prior to hardening off or into suboptimal field conditions. Early varieties and older transplants are most susceptible. Other stress factors such as low fertility, low moisture micronutrient deficiencies, or disease and insects can also be causes. Strong healthy plants lacking heads can occur due to periods of extremely warm weather (days over 86ºF and nights over 77ºF).

Bracts (Leaves) in Cauliflower or Broccoli Heads

High temperatures and/or low soil moisture can result in the formation of bracts, small leaves, between segments in the heads of cauliflower and broccoli. Choose heat-tolerant varieties to avoid bract formation in heads. Maintain uniform soil moisture.

Brown Bead (Broccoli)

Brown bead is caused by a combination of environmental and genetic factors. Reduced calcium uptake due to low transpiration rates under extended wet conditions followed by warm temperatures and rapid growth can result in this condition. Brown bead can also occur when individual flower buds abort under warm, dry conditions. Varieties vary in susceptibility. It is best to grow a mix of varieties with different maturation rates to reduce the risk of losing the entire crop due to adverse weather conditions.

Oedema (Cabbage)

Oedema (edema) is a physiological response of the plant to excessive soil moisture during periods of cool nights and warm, humid days. Many small scabby lesions form on the underside of the cabbage leaves. Avoid irrigation during times when day-night temperature variations are great. Oedema may be confused with thrips damage.

Ricing or Fuzziness of Heads (Cauliflower)

The development of cauliflower curds that appear fuzzy is called ricing. Ricing can be caused by exposure of the developing curds to high temperatures or direct exposure to sun, rapid growth after head formation, high humidity, and high nitrogen fertility.

Tipburn

Tipburn is a result of localized calcium deficiency in leaf tips, which can occur due to irregular soil moisture content or low plant transpiration rates even when soil calcium levels are high. Providing consistent irrigation and taking measures to prevent root-compromising disease can help reduce incidence of tipburn.

Yellow Beads in Broccoli

Yellowing of florets may be due to an over-mature head, high storage temperatures after harvest, or exposure to ethylene. 

Hollow Stem (Broccoli and Cauliflower)

This disease is typically associated with boron deficiency, but may also occur when excessive nitrogen encourages rapid growth. Tissue or soil testing can detect boron deficiency. Brown discoloration of heads may accompany this condition.

NOTES: For the disease control products listed below, one product trade name and formulation is provided for each active ingredient (common name) as an example of rates, preharvest interval (PHI), restricted entry interval (REI), and special instructions. In many cases, there are other products available with the same active ingredient. Please see Table 26 and Fungicides and Bactericides Alphabetically Listed by Trade Name for more information on products with the same active ingredients.

The symbol ^OG indicates a product is listed by the Organic Materials Review Institute (OMRI) as approved for use in organic production. See Organic Certification section for more details.

Leaf Blight/Spot (Cercospora, Septoria, or Alternaria)

Use certified, disease-free seed or treat seed with hot water or fungicides. Rotate fields. Irrigate early in the day to allow foliage to dry quickly. Use wider plant spacing and/or raised beds to improve air circulation. Plant resistant or tolerant varieties. Apply fungicides based upon a disease forecasting system.

• azoxystrobin plus chlorothalonil (Quadris Opti): 2.4 pt/A; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Groups 11 & M05. See label for tank mix precautions. Carrot only.
• azoxystrobin plus propiconazole (Quilt Xcel): 14.0 fl oz/A; PHI 14d, REI 12h, Groups 11 & 3. Carrot only.
• boscalid (Endura): 4.5 oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Group 7. Alternaria only. Do not make more than 2 applications per season. 
• difenoconazole plus cyprodinil (Inspire Super): 16.0 to 20.0 fl oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Groups 3 & 9. Carrot only.
• chlorothalonil (Bravo Weather Stik): 1.5 to 2.0 pt/A; PHI 0d carrot, 10d parsnip, REI 12h, Group M05.
• copper hydroxide (Kocide 3000): 0.75 to 1.5 lb/A; PHI 0d, REI 48h, Group M01. Do not apply in a spray solution having a pH of less than 6.5 or tank mix with Aliette. Carrot only.
• cyprodinil plus fludioxonil (Switch 6.25 WG): 11.0 to 14.0 oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Groups 9 & 12. Alternaria only. 
• fluazinam (Omega 500F): 16.0 pt/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Group 29. For Alternaria on carrot only. 
• fluopyram plus difenoconazole (Luna Flex): 11.0 to 13.6 fl oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Groups 3 & 7. Carrot only. Do not make more than 2 sequential applications before rotation with a non-Group 3 or 7 fungicide. 
• fluxapyroxad plus pyraclostrobin (Merivon Xemium): 4.0 to 5.5 fl oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Groups 7 & 11. 
• iprodione (Rovral 4F): 1.0 to 2.0 pt/A; PHI 0d, REI 24h, Group 2. For Alternaria on carrot only. 
• penthiopyrad (Fontelis): 16.0 to 30.0 fl oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Group 7.
• polyoxin D zinc salt (OSO 5%SC): 6.5 to 13.0 fl oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Group 19.
• Pseudomonas chlororaphis strain AFS009 (Howler^OG): 2.5 to 7.5 lbs/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Group BM02. Use preventatively. Labeled for greenhouse use. 
• propiconazole (Tilt): 3.0 to 4.0 fl oz/A; PHI 14d, REI 24h, Group 3. Labeled for Alternaria suppression. See label for application restrictions. 
• pydiflumetofen plus fludioxonil (Miravis Prime): 6.8 fl oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Groups 7 & 12. See label for application restrictions.
• pyraclostrobin plus boscalid (Pristine): 8.0 to 10.5 oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Groups 11 & 7. Do not alternate with other Group 11 fungicides.
• Swinglea glutinosa extract (EcoSwing^OG): 1.5 to 2.0 pt/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Group BM01. Carrot only. Use preventatively. Use minimum of 10 gal water/A. 
• trifloxystrobin (Flint): 2.0 to 3.0 oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Group 11. Do not graze or feed leaves/foliage of treated crops. Do not alternate with other Group 11 fungicides. 

Crater Rot (Rhizoctonia carotae)

Crater rot caused by the fungus Rhizoctonia carotae is a post-harvest disease of carrot that can occur during prolonged cold storage (greater than 30 days). The disease is characterized by long, dark, horizontal legions on stored roots. The pathogen is soilborne and initial infection occurs before harvest. Late-harvested carrots may have higher amounts of infection. The fungus then develops in cold storage (4-6°C), especially when there is a film of moisture or very high humidity. Under high disease pressure, carrots can be dipped in fungicides or inorganic salts prior to storage. Washing carrots in water can also reduce inoculum clinging to root surfaces. Disinfestation of crates and other equipment minimizes disease development. Proper cold storage that avoids temperature fluctuations and condensation reduces disease and prevents dehydration. Removal of carrots from cold storage early can prevent losses.

Parsnip Blight (Pseudomonas marginalis)

Causes browning through the interior of the root. Practice at least a 2-year rotation.

Root and Crown Rot (Rhizoctonia solani)

Symptoms include dieback of foliage and brown sunken lesions on crowns. The pathogen has a wide host range, making crop rotation as a disease management tactic unsuccessful. Problems with this disease are more severe in organic soils and whenever undecomposed crop residue is present. Avoid crops such as alfalfa and legume cover crops which can increase disease risk. Wide spacing, weed control, and clean cultivation help reduce field infection by allowing soil to dry quickly. Avoid harvesting late in the season. 

• azoxystrobin (Quadris F): See label for in-furrow and drench rates; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Group 11. Rate varies for leaves and root/tuber vegetables. See label. 
• Bacillus amyloliquefaciens strain F727 (Stargus^OG): 2.0 to 4.0 qt/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Group BM02. See label for application methods. Apply preventatively in a minimum of 50 gallons of water/A.
• Bacillus subtilis Strain QST 713 (Minuet): 6.0 to 12.0 oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Group BM02. Soil-applied. See label for restrictions. 
• Trichoderma asperellum (ICC 012) plus T. gamsii (ICC 080), (Bio-tam 2.0^OG): See label for in-furrow, drench, and broadcast rates; REI 4h, Group BM02.

Sore Head (Itersonilia perplexans)

Occurs on parsnip only. Cankers form primarily on the crown and shoulders. Plant on raised beds in well-drained soil. The varieties 'Gladiator' and 'Andover' are somewhat resistant. Rotate parsnip with non-susceptible hosts and control wild Apiaceae plant hosts. Start with certified, disease-free seed. Protect roots by covering crowns and exposed upper roots with soil. Deep plow plant residue to reduce soilborne inoculum. Rarely occurs on young plants. Monitor fields near maturity and harvest affected fields early. Fungicide sprays are not effective.

White Mold (Sclerotinia sclerotiorum)

Fluffy white mycelium and black sclerotia distinguish this disease from other crown and root rots of carrots. The sclerotia can survive for many years on the soil. Rotate with small grains. Handle carrots carefully at harvest and washing. Use a post-harvest sanitizer and change wash water frequently to reduce spread of pathogens. Clean and disinfect storage containers and harvesting equipment between batches. Cool carrots quickly to remove field heat. Inspect and dispose of infested carrots. Maintain storage and shipping temperatures of 32°F and 95% relative humidity.

• penthiopyrad (Fontelis): 16.0 to 30.0 fl oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Group 7.
• thiabendazole (Mertect 340F): 41.0 fl oz/100 gal; REI 12h, Group 1. Dip carrots before storage. 
• fluazinam (Omega 500F): 16.0 fl oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Group 29.
• fluopyram plus difenoconazole (Luna Flex): 11.0 to 13.6 fl oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Groups 3 & 7. Carrot only. Do not make more than 2 sequential applications before rotation with non- Group 3 or 7 fungicide. 
• laminarim (Vacciplant): 14.0 to 22.0 fl oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Group P04. See label for application methods and restrictions. 
• Ulocladium oudemansii (U3 strain) (BotryStop WP^OG): 2.0 to 4.0 lbs/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Group BM02. Carrot only. Begin application when conditions are conducive to disease development. 

Aster Yellows

Remove inoculum sources by controlling Apiaceae weeds. Avoid fields near pastures or riverbanks that harbor susceptible vegetation. Destroy residues from susceptible crops immediately after harvest. Control the six-spotted leafhopper that carries the phytoplasma (see Carrot and Parsnip Insect Control).

Root-Knot Nematode (Meloidogyne spp.)

Low densities of root-knot nematodes before planting means susceptible crops will suffer damage. Monitor soils for nematode populations. Rotate with non-hosts such as cereals. Practice soil solarization or field fumigation in the fall. See Soil Fumigation Outdoors.

• Purpureocillium lilacinum strain 251 (Melocon (LC and WG)): See label for application rates; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Group NC. Treat just prior to planting.

NOTES: For the insecticides listed below, one product trade name and formulation is provided for each active ingredient (AI) as an example of rates, preharvest interval (PHI), restricted entry interval (REI), and special instructions. In many cases, there are other products available with the same AI. Please see Table 27 and Insecticides Alphabetically Listed by Trade Name for more information on these insecticides.

• The designation (Bee: L, M, or H) indicates a bee toxicity rating of low, moderate, or high. See the Protecting Honeybees and Native Pollinators section for more details.
• The symbol * indicates a product is a restricted use pesticide. See Pesticide Safety and Use for more details.
• The symbol ^OG indicates a product is listed by the Organic Materials Review Institute (OMRI) as approved for use in organic production. See Organic Certification section for more details.

Aster Leafhopper (Macrosteles quadralineatis)

Aster leafhopper is a minor pest in New England but a major pest in the Midwest. Although it inflicts very little direct feeding injury to carrots or parsnips, it is important because it vectors aster yellows. This mycoplasma-like pathogen causes distortion and discoloration of leaves and stunted, hairy, and bitter roots in both carrots and parsnips. Lettuce, celery, celeriac, parsley, corn, and potato are also susceptible. Aster leafhoppers also feed on cereal grains, especially oats, wheat, and barley, clover, and various weeds. The adults are small, less than 4 mm long, light green with grey wings, and have 6 pairs of black spots on the top and front of the head. Among vegetables, lettuce is the primary crop that is suitable for leafhopper reproduction. Eggs are laid in plant tissues, and the yellowish nymphs feed and develop into adults in 3-4 weeks. There are 3 generations per year in northern states. Aster leafhoppers migrate north annually from the southern US, and can arrive as early as May, sometimes already infected with the aster yellows pathogen. In northern states, they can also overwinter in the egg stage, on weeds or winter grains.

Unlike many insect-vectored viruses, adults or nymphs must feed for at least 2 hours to become infected with the aster yellows mycoplasma. This could occur on infected crops in a southern state before migration or on a local crop or weed. Weeds that may be infected include thistle, fleabane, wild lettuce, sow thistle, chicory, wild carrot, galinsoga, dandelion, plantain, and cinquefoil. There is an incubation period of 2-3 weeks inside the leafhopper; thereafter, it can transmit the pathogen for its lifetime. Transmission from the leafhopper to a non-infected plant also requires at least 2 hours of feeding. It takes 10-15 days for infected plants to show symptoms.

If aster yellows disease becomes a problem on your farm, plant tolerant or resistant varieties, which are available for carrot and lettuce. Control weed hosts and avoid growing susceptible crops in fields close to winter grains. Reflective or light-colored straw mulch effectively reduces aster yellows infection, and row cover prevents infection by keeping out leafhoppers. Cool, wet weather limits leafhopper activity and disease transmission. Monitor nearby grain fields or carrot crops in July and August using sweep nets. Thresholds widely used in the Midwest are based on the aster yellows index, which is the product of the percent infection of the leafhopper population (determined by testing) and the number of leafhoppers per 100 sweeps. At 2% infection, the threshold in carrots is 25 leafhoppers per 100 sweeps in susceptible varieties and 37 leafhoppers per 100 sweeps in tolerant varieties. In the absence of test results for % infection, assume 2%. It is important to control leafhoppers before infection takes place. Because several hours of feeding are required for the aster leafhopper to transmit aster yellows to a plant, disease suppression can be achieved by killing the vector before inoculation occurs.

• alpha-cypermethrin (Fastac* EC): 1.8 to 3.8 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A.
• beta-cyfluthrin (Baythroid*XL): 1.6 to 2.8 oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A. Carrot only. 
• carbaryl (Sevin XLR Plus): 1 to 2 qt/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 1A. Do not apply to crops in bloom. 
• deltamethrin (Delta Gold*): 1.5 to 2.4 oz/A; PHI 3d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A.
• esfenvalerate (Asana* XL): 5.8 to 9.6 oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A. Carrot only.
• flupyradifurone (Sivanto): 7 to 14 oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 4h, Bee: L, Group 4D.
• imidacloprid (Admire Pro): 0.31 to 0.74 oz/1,000 row ft or 4.4 to 10.5 oz/A; PHI 21d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 4A. Soil applications only.
• kaolin (Surround WPOG): 25 to 50 lb/A or 0.25 to 0.5 lb/gal; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: L. Suppression and repellence only.
• malathion (Malathion 57 EC): 2 pt/A; PHI 7d, REI 24h, Bee: H, Group 1B. Carrot only.
• methomyl (Lannate* LV): 1.5 to 3 pt/A; PHI 1d, REI 48h, Bee: H, Group 1A. Carrot only.
• pyrethrin (PyGanic EC5.0^OG): 4.5 to 17 oz/A; 0.25 to 0.50 oz/gal, 3 gal/1000 sq ft in greenhouse for backpack sprayers; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: M, Group 3A.
• sodium tetraborohydrate decahydrate (Prev-AM): 100 oz/100 gal; REI 12h, Bee: L, Group 25. Do not apply in midday sun or mix with copper, sulfur, or oils.
• sulfoxaflor (Transform WG): 1.5 to 2.75 oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 24h, Bees: H, Group 4C. Do not apply between 3 days prior to bloom and until after petal fall.
• thiamethoxam (Actara): 1.5 to 3 oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 4A.
• thiamethoxam (Platinum): 5 to 12 oz/A; REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 4A. Systemic insecticide used at seeding or within 24 hours of seeding as an in-furrow or narrow surface band with sufficient water for incorporation, or in drip irrigation application to the seed/seedling root zone during or after planting/transplanting operations.
• zeta-cypermethrin (Mustang*): 1.76 to 4 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A.

Carrot Rust Fly (Psila rosae)

Carrot rust fly feeds on many umbelliferous crops and weeds. Though it is considered principally a pest of carrots, it can also damage parsnips, celery, celeriac, parsley, and dill. Adults are slender flies, 4-5 mm long, with slightly iridescent wings, yellowish-brown head and legs, dark red eyes, and shiny black thorax and abdomen. Adult flies enter fields to oviposit and return to field edges daily. Clusters of 1-3 eggs are laid in the soil near the base of food plants. Larvae are milky-white to yellowish, without legs, tapered at the head with dark mouth hooks, and 6-9 mm when fully grown. Root feeding of hatching larvae may kill young plants or cause forked, stunted, or fibrous roots. Larvae burrow into the main root as they grow larger, then leave the root to form an oval brown pupa up to 10 cm deep in the soil. Sometimes larvae overwinter in fall carrot roots, but mainly pupa overwinter in the soil, and adults emerge in May and June. Cool, moist conditions favor adult emergence. Early-season carrots are susceptible to attack by this first flight, especially the earliest successions, as flies tend to select larger carrots to lay eggs. The summer generation of adult flies emerges in August and is active through September, causing damage to late or long-season carrots. Fall damage may increase in later harvests. The larva mines the root's surface, leaving trails and blotchy areas that develop a rusty color and render the root unmarketable. Wounds provide entry to plant pathogens. The foliage may become red or yellow. In carrots, the larval mines are mostly in the lower portion of the root, but in parsnips, they are in the upper portion. In celery, the larva may tunnel upward into the crown and stalks. Damage is often worst near sheltered field edges, with damage decreasing toward the center of the field.

Avoid leaving crops in the field over the winter, where they support overwintering larvae or attract spring egg-laying. Because adults are weak fliers and are limited to one crop family, crop rotation to a separate field is effective—plant carrots in open fields where wind protects them from adult flights if possible. The crop is most vulnerable around the edge of sheltered fields surrounded by woods. Row covers protect the crop from egg-laying. Intercropping with onion has been shown to reduce damage by carrot rust flies. Some varieties show partial resistance to rust flies. Stagger plantings to distribute risk, or if possible, time plantings to avoid the first and second flight periods. In the fall, harvest edges first, as these may have the most damage. Monitor flight with yellow sticky traps placed upright on a stake just above the canopy and several feet into the field; count flies twice weekly. Use multiple traps per field, especially along field edges that are sheltered from wind. Traps reflect population levels and indicate the beginning, peak and end of flight periods, and are used to time insecticides or determine when it is safe to remove row cover. In Quebec and Ontario, insecticides are recommended at thresholds of 0.1-0.2 flies per trap per day, although no registered products are available in New England. Where active periods coincide, sprays for carrot weevil may help control carrot rust flies.

Carrot Weevil (Listronotus oregonensis)

Carrot weevil attacks crops and weeds in the Umbelliferae family and can cause severe damage to parsley, dill, carrot, celery, and parsnip. Adult beetles are brown, less than 6 mm long, with the typical weevil ‘snout-like’ mouthparts. They overwinter in soil or plant debris near previous host crops. Although able to fly, they travel and invade fields mostly by walking. In spring, females lay eggs into holes that they gouge in petioles or tops of roots but only oviposit in plants that are older than the 4-leaf stage. Egg-laying starts at 234 growing degree days (GDD), using a base temperature of 44.6°F. Young larvae tunnel in stalks or roots and may kill young plants. Larvae tunnel downward as they grow. Tunnels are very pronounced and may be invaded by fungi. Unlike carrot rust fly, feeding damage by weevil larvae is limited to the upper third of the root. Pupation occurs in the soil, and new adults emerge after 1-2 weeks. There is generally 1 generation per year in New England. Weevils tend to be worse in organic soils. To prevent damage, rotate carrot and parsnip crops to new fields to escape overwintering adults. Delay planting until after eggs have been deposited (90% of oviposition is expected to be completed by 820 GDD). Carrot-baited traps (Mason jar, Boivin, or modified Boivin traps) deployed at field edges can detect incoming adults. Sampling roots is an effective way to estimate the population of larvae. Insecticide must be applied before egg-laying begins, so timing is important; GDD can be useful. Sprays targeting the adult beetles should be applied once or twice, 10-14 days apart, from the 1- to 3-leaf stage.

• alpha-cypermethrin (Fastac* EC): 1.8 to 3.8 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A.
• beta-cyfluthrin (Baythroid*XL): 2.8 oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A. Carrot only. 
• esfenvalerate (Asana*XL): 9.6 oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A. Begin treatment when weevils become active, and provide thorough spray coverage of crowns. Carrot only.
• Isaria fumosorosea Apopka Strain 97 (PFR-97 20% WDG^OG): 1 to 2 lb/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: M, Group UN. Soil drench.
• malathion (Malathion 57 EC): 1 to 2 pt/A; PHI 7d, REI 24h, Bee: H, Group 1B. Parsnips only.
• oxamyl (Vydate* L): 2 to 4 pt/A; PHI 14d, REI 48h, Bee: H, Group 1A. Use as a soil-directed spray in 20 gal water/A. Must be incorporated into soil by water or mechanical means to a depth of at least 2". Carrot only.
• pyrethrin (PyGanic EC5.0^OG): 4.5 to 17 oz/A; 0.25 to 0.50 oz/gal, 3 gal/1000 sq ft in greenhouse for backpack sprayers; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: M, Group 3A.

Cutworms

In carrots, cutworms feed on petioles, cutting them near the ground. One cutworm can destroy several plants in a single night. See cutworms in the Pepper and Tomato (Outdoor) sections for more information on black and variegated cutworms. Use spot treatments in affected areas.

• alpha-cypermethrin (Fastac* EC): 1.3 to 3.8 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A.
• Bacillus thuringiensis aizawai (XenTari^OG): 0.5 to 1.5 lb/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: L, Group 11. Must be ingested; apply in evening or early morning, before larvae are actively feeding. Adherence and weather-fastness will improve with use of an approved spreader-sticker. Use high rate at cool temperatures. For resistance management, may be rotated with Bt kurstaki products (Dipel).
• Bacillus thuringiensis kurstaki (Dipel DF^OG): 0.5 to 2 lb/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: L, Group 11. Must be ingested; apply in evening or early morning, before larvae are actively feeding. Adherence and weather-fastness will improve with use of an approved spreader-sticker. Use high rate at cool temperatures. For resistance management, may be rotated with Bt aizawai products (XenTari).
• beta-cyfluthrin (Baythroid* XL): 1.6 to 2.8 oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A. Carrot only. 
• bifenthrin (Brigade* 2EC): 5.1 to 6.4 oz/A; PHI 21d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A.
• carbaryl (Sevin XLR Plus): 1 to 2 qt/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 1A. Most effective on species that feed on upper portions of the plant.
• esfenvalerate (Asana* XL): 5.8 to 9.6 oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A. Carrot only.
• methomyl (Lannate* LV): 0.75 to 1.5 pt/A; PHI 1d, REI 48h, Bee: H, Group 1A. For variegated cutworm on carrot only.
• methoxyfenozide (Intrepid 2F): 8 to 16 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 4h, Bee:L, Group 18. Suppression only.
• spinosad (Seduce^OG): 20 to 44 lb/A or 0.5 to1 lb/1000 sq ft.; PHI 3d, REI 4h, Bee: M, Group 5. Spread bait on soil around plants.
• zeta-cypermethrin (Mustang*): 1.28 to 4 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A.

NOTES: For the herbicides listed below, one product trade name and formulation is provided for each active ingredient along with preharvest interval (PHI), restricted entry interval (REI), resistance management group number, and example of rates and special instructions. In many cases, there are other products available with the same active ingredient. However, not all products with the same active ingredient are registered for use in a crop. Always check the product label to be sure that the crop is listed before using. 

Stale Seedbed

See Stale Seedbed Technique for information on the use of these herbicides or flaming.

• glyphosate (Roundup Power Max): PHI 14d, REI 4h, Group 9. 
• paraquat (Gramoxone SL 2.0*): REI 12h or 24h, Group 22. *Restricted use: Applicators must complete an EPA-approved paraquat training every 3 years: https://www.epa.gov/pesticide-worker-safety/paraquat-dichloride-training-certified-applicators.
• pelargonic acid (Scythe): PHI 1d, REI 12h, Group 0. 

Preemergent Herbicides (before weeds germinate)

• linuron (Lorox DF): PHI 14d, REI 24h, Group 5. Parsnip only. Apply 1.5-3 lbs/A per application, only 1 application allowed per year. Apply after planting but prior to crop emergence. Seed should be planted at least 1/2 inch deep. Lorox activity is higher on both weeds and parsnips if it has been cloudy for 3 or more days, so reduce the application under these conditions.
• pendimethalin (Prowl H2O): PHI 60d, REI 24h, Group 3. Carrot only. Apply up to 2.1 pt/A per application, only 1 application allowed per year. Can be applied to the soil surface within 2 days of seeding, before emergence of the crop or weeds, or at layby as a directed spray between the rows. Do not allow contact with the carrot plants or injury will occur. Do not apply over the top of emerged carrots.
• s-metolachlor (Dual Magnum): REI 24h, Group 15. MA, ME, and NH only. Carrot only. Make sure the label for your state is available for download before using this product. This is a restricted label available only to growers who apply through the website www.syngenta-us.com/labels/indemnified-label-login and agree to a waiver of liability. Main target weeds for this registration are galinsoga and yellow nutsedge. All label instructions will be supplied after the application for use is completed. 
• trifluaralin (Treflan HFP): REI 12h, Group 3. Carrot only. Apply 1-2 pts/A per application. Apply and incorporate before planting. Incorporated 2-3” into the final seedbed within 24 hours of application. Rate based on soil texture, percent organic matter, and rainfall.

Pre- and Postemergent Herbicides

• prometryn (Caparol 4L): PHI 30d, REI 12h or 48h, Group 5. Carrot only. Apply 2-4 pts/A per application, up to 3 applications allowed per year. Do not exceed 8 pt/A per crop cycle or 16 pt/A per year. Apply in a minimum of 20 gal/A of spray. Do not exceed 1 application before carrots emerge (up to 4 pt/A) plus 1 (up to 4 pt/A) or 2 applications after carrots emerge. Can be applied before carrots have emerged; activate with water through rainfall or irrigation. Can also be applied over the top of carrot, until the 6-leaf stage. Include a nonionic surfactant (0.5% v:v, 2 qt/100 gal of spray) or crop oil concentrate (1% v:v, 1 gallon/100 gal of spray). Do not apply when temperatures exceed 85°F.

Postemergent Herbicides (after weeds germinate)

• carfentrazone (Aim EC): REI 12h, Group 14. Apply 0.5-2 oz/A per application, multiple applications allowed per year. Do not exceed 6.1 oz/A per season. Apply to row middles of emerged crops with hooded sprayers to control emerged weeds. Prevent any spray from contacting the crop, or injury will occur. For best results, make application to actively growing weeds up to 4” tall and rosettes less than 3” across.
• clethodim (Select Max): PHI 30d, REI 24h, Group 1. Apply 9-16 oz/A per application, up to 4 applications per year, a minimum of 14 days apart. Do not exceed 64 oz/A per year. Apply to actively growing grasses. Add 0.25% v:v nonionic surfactant (1 qt/100 gal of spray). Can also be applied as a spot-spray by mixing 0.33-0.66% (0.44-0.85 oz/gal) Select Max and 0.25% v:v nonionic surfactant (0.33 oz/gal). Spray to wet, but do not allow runoff of spray solution.
• fluazifop (Fusilade DX): PHI 45d, REI 12h, Group 1. Carrot only. Apply up to 24 oz/A per application, up to 2 applications allowed per year, a minimum of 14 days apart. Do not exceed 48 oz/A per year. Apply to actively growing grasses (see product label for susceptible stage). Add either crop oil concentrate (0.5-1%, 0.5-1 gal/100 gal of spray) or nonionic surfactant (0.25-0.5%, 1-2 qt/100 gal of spray). 
• glyphosate (Roundup Power Max): PHI 14d, REI 4h, Group 9. Apply 10 oz to 3.1 qts/A per application, multiple applications allowed per year. Do not exceed 5 qts/A per year. Rate based on target weed species. Can be applied during fallow intervals, prior to planting or transplanting, at planting, or before crop has emerged. May cause injury when applied prior to transplanting or direct-seeding into plastic mulch. Remove residual product from plastic mulch with 0.5” of water through irrigation or rainfall prior to planting. Can also be applied with the wiper method using a 33% solution by volume. A maximum of 2 wiper applications allowed per year. The first application must be a minimum of 60 days before harvest and the second application must be a minimum of 7 days before harvest.
• linuron (Lorox DF): PHI 14d, REI 24h or 8d, Group 5. For carrots: Apply 1.5-3 lbs/A per application, multiple applications allowed per year. Do not exceed 4 lbs/A per year. Has not been tested on all varieties; crop tolerance should be verified before treating the entire field. Apply after carrots are at least 3” and before annual grasses exceed 2" tall and broadleaf weeds exceed 6" tall. Do not apply when the temperature exceeds 85°F as crop injury may result. Lorox activity is higher on both weeds and parsnips if it has been cloudy for 3 or more days, so reduce the application rate under these conditions. Do not apply Lorox as a tank mix with surfactant, nitrogen solution, or other pesticides.
• metribuzin (Metribuzin 75): PHI 60d, REI 12h, Group 5. Carrot only. Apply 0.3 lb/A per application, up to 2 applications allowed per year, a minimum of 3 weeks apart. Do not exceed 0.6 lb/A per year. Apply as a broadcast spray when carrots have 5-6 true leaves and weeds are less than 1" tall and 1" in diameter. Do not apply within 3 days of cool or wet weather or within 3 days of other sprays. Yellowing and burning of leaf tissue may occur. Has not been tested on all varieties; crop tolerance should be verified before treating the entire field. Fair on grasses.
• paraquat (Gramoxone SL 3.0*): REI 12h or 24h (application type), Group 22. Carrot only. Apply 1.3-2.7 pts/A per application, up to 3 applications allowed per year, a minimum of 7 days apart. Do not exceed 8 pts/A per year. Apply before, during, or after planting, but before emergence, as a banded or broadcast application. Apply in a minimum of 10 gal/A of spray. May be fatal if swallowed or inhaled. *Restricted use: Applicators must complete an EPA-approved paraquat training every 3 years: https://www.epa.gov/pesticide-worker-safety/paraquat-dichloride-training-certified-applicators.
• pelargonic acid (Scythe): PHI 1d, REI 12h, Group 0. Apply a 3-10% solution (3-10 gallons per 100 gallons of spray). Rate based on target weed species. Apply in 75-200 gal/A of spray or with a spot sprayer until foliage is wet but not to the point of runoff. Repeat applications as necessary. Can apply for vegetative burndown during site preparation, prior to crop emergence from soil, as a directed and shielded spray during crop growth taking care to avoid contact with foliage and green tissue of crops, or as a harvest aid and desiccant to remove crop leaves or ease harvest. 
• sethoxydim (Poast): PHI 30d carrots, 14d parsnips, REI 12h, Group 1. Apply 2.5 pt/A per application, multiple applications allowed per year, a minimum of 14 days apart. Do not exceed 5 pt/A per year for carrots or 2.5 pt/A per year for parsnips. Apply to actively growing grasses. Use with crop oil concentrate (2 pt/A) or methylated seed oil (1.5 pt/A). Crop oil can cause injury under hot and humid conditions. Can also be applied as a spot-spray by mixing 1-1.5% (1.3-1.9 oz/gal) Poast and 1% v:v crop oil concentrate (1.3 oz/gal). Spray to wet, but do not allow runoff of spray solution.

NOTES: For the disease control products listed below, one product trade name and formulation is provided for each active ingredient (common name) as an example of rates, preharvest interval (PHI), restricted entry interval (REI), and special instructions. In many cases, there are other products available with the same active ingredient. Please see Table 26 and Fungicides and Bactericides Alphabetically Listed by Trade Name for more information on products with the same active ingredients.

The symbol ^OG indicates a product is listed by the Organic Materials Review Institute (OMRI) as approved for use in organic production. See Organic Certification section for more details.

Anthracnose Leaf Curl (Colletotrichum fioriniae and C. nymphaeae)

Celery anthracnose is caused by Colletotrichum fioriniae and C. nymphaeae (formerly C. acutatum). C. fioriniae also causes bitter rot in apples while C. nymphaeae causes anthracnose of strawberries and garlic scapes. Symptoms on celery include curled leaves, occasional discoloration of leaf margins, twisted petioles, and lesions on petioles. Leaves remain green but often appear fan-like and curl downward. Leaf curl is often the most prominent symptom observed and can resemble injury from growth regulator type herbicides (e.g., 2, 4-D). In advanced stages, the disease can resemble blackheart, the physiological disorder caused by low calcium assimilation. These pathogens thrive under warm, wet conditions. Rapid pathogen growth occurs when temperatures are 77-86°F, with substantially more disease development at 86ºF. Temperatures as cool as 60°F will support fungal growth and spread, but field progression will be slow. This disease may be seedborne. Start with clean seed, flats, and growing media. Plant tolerant varieties. Avoid planting in fields with a history of strawberry or garlic anthracnose. Scout plants twice a week for symptoms; remove and destroy affected plants. Manage weeds, as several common species harbor celery anthracnose without clearly expressing symptoms. Remove or till under crop debris after harvest. A 3- to 4-year crop rotation with non-host plants should be followed. Avoid working the fields when the plants are wet, work in fields with a history of the disease last, and power wash equipment between fields. Research has shown that the strobilurin (Group 11) fungicides are most effective; however, be careful to rotate as resistance can develop quickly in this group.

• azoxystrobin (Quadris): 6.0 to 15.5 fl oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Group 11. Do not apply more than once before alternating with a non-Group 11 fungicide.
• flutriafol (Rhyme): 5.0 to 7.0 fl oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Group 3. Apply preventatively when conditions are favorable for disease development.
• pyraclostrobin (Cabrio EG): 12 to 16 oz /A; PHI 0d, REI 12h , Group 11. Do not apply more than once before alternating with a non-Group 11 fungicide. Apply no more than 64 oz per year.
• pyraclostrobin plus boscalid (Pristine): 10.0 to 15.0 oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Groups 11 & 7. Maximum of 2 applications per year.
• pyraclostrobin plus fluxapyroxad (Merivon Xemium): 4.0 to 11.0 fl oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Groups 11 & 7. Maximum of 3 applications per year.

Early Blight (Cercospora apii) and Late Blight (Septoria apicola)

The primary symptom of early blight (Cercospora apii) is the occurrence of small yellow spots that are visible from both sides of the leaf. These spots may develop into larger lesions that become papery and often tear. Gray, fuzzy fungal growth may be visible in well-developed lesions. Favorable temperatures for early blight range from 60-86ºF. This pathogen can be seedborne, can survive on celery crop residue, and spores can spread via wind and water splashing.

Small, yellow, circular spots on leaves are also symptoms of late blight (Septoria apicola) in celery, which has similar symptoms to early blight in celery overall. One difference is that the small, round, and dark reproductive bodies of late blight, called pycnidia, can be seen in the center of lesions. This pathogen develops when temperatures are greater than 55ºF, and particularly in wet conditions when temperatures exceed 70ºF.

Use certified, disease-free seed or treat seed with hot water or fungicides. Practice careful sanitation in transplant greenhouses or rotate seedbeds. Irrigate early in the day to allow foliage to dry quickly. Use wider plant spacing and/or raised beds to improve air circulation. Plant resistant or tolerant varieties where available. Apply fungicides based upon a disease forecasting system.

• azoxystrobin (Quadris F): 6.0 to 9.0 fl oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Group 11. Do not apply more than once before alternating with a non-Group 11 fungicide.
• azoxystrobin plus chlorothalonil (Quadris Opti): 2.4 to 3.7 pt/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Groups 11 & M05. See label for tank mix precautions.
• azoxystrobin plus propiconazole (Quilt Xcel): 14.0 fl oz/A; PHI 14d, REI 12h, Groups 11 & 3. 
• Bacillus amyloliquefaciens F727 (Stargus^OG): 2.0 to 4.0 qt/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Group BM02. See label for specific instructions.
• chlorothalonil (Bravo Weather Stik): 2.0 to 3.0 pt/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Group M05.
• copper hydroxide (Kocide 3000OG): 0.75 to 1.5 lb/A; PHI 0d, REI 48h, Group M01. Do not apply in a spray solution having a pH of less than 6.5 or tank mix with Aliette.
• cyprodinil plus fludioxonil (Switch 62.5 WG): 11.0 to 14.0 fl oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Groups 9 & 12.
• fluxapyroxad plus pyraclostrobin (Merivon): 4.0 to 11.0 fl oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Groups 7 & 11.
• penthiopyrad (Fontelis): 14.0 to 24.0 oz/A; PHI 3d, REI 12h, Group 7.
• propiconazole (Tilt): 4.0 fl oz/A; PHI 14d, REI 24h, Group 3.
• pyraclostrobin plus boscalid (Pristine): 10.0 to 15.0 oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Groups 7 & 11. Maximum 2 applications per year. 
• pydiflumetofen plus fludioxonil (Miravis Prime): 9.2 to 13.4 fl oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Groups 7 & 12. 
• trifloxystrobin (Flint): 2.0 to 3.0 oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Group 11. Do not make more than once before alternating with a non-Group 11 fungicide.

Fusarium Yellows (Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. apii)

Fusarium yellows causes yellowing of outer leaves, stunting, and eventually death. This pathogen spreads through plants’ vasculature. Infection may be spotty within fields, as symptoms are commensurate with the degree of infection. While this pathogen only infects celery, its spores can remain in soil almost indefinitely, surviving on celery crop residues, non-host crops, and many weed species. Once a field is infected, only resistant varieties can be grown. Rotating an infected field to onion or lettuce production for 2 years, before the pathogen becomes seriously problematic, is recommended to allow for spore decline. Good equipment and worker sanitation can reduce spread. Source resistant varieties and disease-free transplants. As with other fungal pathogens, avoid working fields when wet.

Basal Stalk Rot (Rhizoctonia solani)

Rhizoctonia in celery is sometimes called crater rot, or simply stalk rot. This pathogen causes symptoms on petioles when they are in contact with the soil. Symptoms include reddish brown lesions on either side of the petiole, and can become sunken. This pathogen is soilborne and infects many plant species, including many vegetable crops. It is favored by warm, humid/wet conditions, and can survive in soil as sclerotia for a long time.

A 2-year rotation is recommended. Avoid crops such as alfalfa and legume cover crops which can increase disease risk. Avoid cultivating late in the season. Maintain storage conditions at 50°F.

• azoxystrobin (Quadris): 0.4 to 0.8 fl oz/1,000 row feet; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Group 11. Apply in a 7" band in-furrow or shortly after emergence. After emergence, apply directly to stem. See label for specific instructions.
• azoxystrobin plus chlorothalonil (Quadris Opti): 2.4 to 3.7 pt/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Groups 11 & M5. See label for tank mix precautions.
• Bacillus amyloliquefaciens F727 (Stargus^OG): 1.0 to 4.0 qt/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Group BM02. Apply preventatively in a minimum of 50.0 gal/A. 
• chlorothalonil (Bravo Weather Stik): 2.0 to 3.0 pt/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Group M05.
• polyoxin D (OSO 5%SC^OG): 6.5 to 13.0 fl oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Group 19.

Pink Rot (Sclerotinia sclerotiorum)

Pink rot in celery is caused by the same pathogen that causes white mold in beans and peas. This pathogen can infect celery at any developmental stage, but is most commonly seen near harvest. The most characteristic symptoms are lesions on the lower portion of petioles that are initially brown and then turn water-logged, slimy, and pink. Lesions can contain white mycelia and/or hardened black sclerotia. Severely infected plants may totally collapse. Infections can go unnoticed, especially on inner petioles. Symptoms can also appear during storage. Do not plant seed contaminated with sclerotia or plant into severely infested fields. Irrigate in the morning or with subsurface drip systems to promote drier soil. Rotate with non-hosts. Soil sterilization with chemicals, heat, or steam can reduce the number of viable sclerotia in the soil.

• Bacillus amyloliquefaciens F727 (Stargus^OG): 1.0 to 4.0 qt/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Group BM02. Apply preventatively in a minimum of 50.0 gal of water/A.
• boscalid (Endura): 8.0 to 9.0 oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Group 7.
• chlorothalonil (Bravo Weather Stik): 3.0 pt/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Group M05. For disease suppression.
• Coniothyrium minitans (Contans WG^OG): 1.0 to 4.0 lb/A in 20.0-50.0 gal water; REI 4h, Group BM02. Spray on soil surface and incorporate into top 2" soil. Apply in fall or 3-4 months prior to planting.
• cyprodonil plus fludioxonil (Switch 62.5 WG): 11.0 to14.0 oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Groups 9 & 12. Make first application at thinning and once more 2 weeks later.
• pyraclostrobin plus boscalid (Pristine): 25.0 oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Groups 7 & 11. Maximum 2 applications per year. 
• Ulocladium oudemansii (BotryStop^OG): 2.0 to 4.0 lbs/A; REI 4h, Group BM02. Begin application when conditions are conducive to disease development.

NOTES: For the insecticides listed below, one product trade name and formulation is provided for each active ingredient (AI) as an example of rates, preharvest interval (PHI), restricted entry interval (REI), and special instructions. In many cases, there are other products available with the same AI. Please see Table 27 and Insecticides Alphabetically Listed by Trade Name for more information on these insecticides.

The designation (Bee: L, M, or H) indicates a bee toxicity rating of low, moderate, or high. See the Protecting Honeybees and Native Pollinators section for more details.

The symbol * indicates a product is a restricted use pesticide. See Pesticide Safety and Use for more details.

The symbol ^OG indicates a product is listed by the Organic Materials Review Institute (OMRI) as approved for use in organic production. See Organic Certification section for more details.

Aphids

See Pepper section for more information about green peach aphid.

• acephate (Orthene 97): 0.5 to 1 lb/A; PHI 21d, REI 24h, Bee: H, Group 1B. Green peach aphid only. Tops must be removed before use; do not use tops for food or feed. Celery only.
•  
• acetamiprid (Assail 30SG): 2 to 4 oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 4A. Celery only.
• afidopyropen (Versys): 1.5 fl oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 12 h, Bee: L, Group 9D. Celery only. 
• alpha-cypermethrin (Fastac* EC): 3.2 to 3.8 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A.
• Chromobacterium subtsugae strain PRAA4-1 (Grandevo^OG): 2 to 3 lb/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: M, Group UN.
• cyantraniliprole (Exirel): 13.5 to 20.5 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 28. Cotton and green peach aphid only for celeriac. 
• cyantraniliprole (Verimark): 6.75 to 13.5 oz/A at planting, 6.75 to 10 oz/A chemigation; PHI 1d chemigation, REI 4h, Bee: H, Group 28. For control of green peach aphid and suppression of potato aphid only. Celery only.
• dinotefuran (Venom): 1 to 3 oz/A foliar or 5 to 7.5 oz/A soil; PHI 7d foliar, 21d soil, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 4A. Suppression of green peach and potato aphids. Soil application may be as a band during bedding, in-furrow at seeding, as a transplant or post-seeding drench, as a sidedress, or through drip. Celery only.
• flonicamid (Beleaf 50SG): 2 to 2.8 oz/A; PHI 0d celery, 3d celeriac, REI 12, Bee: L, Group 9C. 
• flupyradifurone (Sivanto): 10.5 to 14 oz/A green peach aphid, 7 to 14 oz/A other aphids; PHI 1d, REI 4h, Bee: L, Group 4D.
• imidacloprid (Admire Pro): 4.4 to 10.5 oz/A soil, 1.2 oz/A foliar celeriac; PHI 45d soil, 7d foliar, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 4A. Foliar applications allowed for celeriac only.
• insecticidal soap (M-Pede^OG): 1.25 to 2.5 oz/gal water; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: L. Spray to wet all infested plant surfaces. May need to make repeated applications and/or use a companion insecticide.
• malathion (Malathion 57EC): 1.5 pt/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 1B. Celery only.
• petroleum oil (Suffoil X^OG): 1 to 2 gal/100 gal water; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: L. Celery only.
• pymetrozine (Fulfill): 2.75 oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Bee: L, Group 9B. Celery only.
• pyrethrin (PyGanic EC5.0^OG): 4.5 to 17 oz/A, 0.25 to 0.50 oz/gal, 3 gal/1000 sq ft in greenhouse for backpack sprayers; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: M, Group 3A.
• sodium tetraborohydrate decahydrate (Prev-AM): 100 oz/100 gal; REI 12h, Bee: L, Group 25. Do not apply in midday sun or mix with copper, sulfur, or oils. Celery only. 
• spirotetramat (Movento): 4 to 5 oz/A; PHI 3d, REI 24h, Bee: M, Group 23. Must be tank-mixed with a spray adjuvant with spreading and penetrating properties to maximize leaf uptake and sytemicity; don't use sticker adjuvants. Controls immature stages; may also reduce adult fertility. Celery only.
• sulfoxaflor (Closer SC): 1.5 to 2 oz/A; PHI 3d celery, 7d celeriac, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 4C. Application to celeriac foliage and celery only. Do not apply any time between 3 days prior to bloom and until after petal fall. 
• sulfoxaflor (Transform WG): 0.75 to 1.5 oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 24h, Bee: H, Group 4C. Celeriac only. Do not apply any time between 3 days prior to bloom and until after petal fall. 
• thiamethoxam (Actara): 1.5 to 3 oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 4A.
• thiamethoxam (Platimum): 5 to 11 oz/A celery, 5 to 12 oz/A celeriac; PHI 30d celery, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 4A. Systemic insecticide used as an in-furrow, banded, drench, or drip irrigation application to the seed/seedling root zone during or after planting/transplanting operations (celery and celeriac), or shanked into root zone after transplanting or establishment (celery only). 
• tolfenpyrad (Torac): 17 to 21 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 21A. Celery only. 

Cabbage Looper and Imported Cabbageworm

See Cabbage and Other Brassica Crops for more information on cabbage looper (CL) and imported cabbageworm (ICW).

• acephate (Orthene 97): 1 lb/A; PHI 21d, REI 24h, Bee: H, Group 1B. Tops must be removed before use; do not use tops for food or feed. CL on celery only.
• alpha-cypermethrin (Fastac* EC): 2.2 to 3.8 oz/A for ICW, 3.2 to 3.8 oz/A for CL on celery and 1.8 to 3.8 oz/A for CL on celeriac; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A.
• azadirachtin (Azatin O^OG): 4 to 16 oz/A foliar or drench, 4 to 16 oz/100 gal in greenhouses; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: L, Group UN. When using lower rates, combine with adjuvant for improved spray coverage and translaminar uptake.
• Bacillus thuringiensis aizawai (XenTari^OG): 0.5 to 1.5 lb/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: L, Group 11. Must be ingested; apply in evening or early morning, before larvae are actively feeding. Adherence and weather-fastness will improve with use of an approved spreader-sticker. Use high rate at cool temperatures. For resistance management, may be rotated with Bt kurstaki products (Dipel).
• Bacillus thuringiensis kurstaki (Dipel DF^OG): 0.5 to 2 lb/A CL, 0.25 to 1 lb/A ICW; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: L, Group 11. Must be ingested; apply in evening or early morning, before larvae are actively feeding. Adherence and weather-fastness will improve with use of an approved spreader-sticker. Use high rate at cool temperatures. For resistance management, may be rotated with Bt aizawai products (XenTari).
• beta-cyfluthrin (Baythroid* XL): 1.6 to 2.4 oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A. Celery only.
• carbaryl (Sevin XLR Plus): 1 to 2 qt/A; PHI 14d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 1A. ICW only.
• chlorantraniliprole (Coragen): 3.5 to 7.5 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 4h, Bee: L, Group 28. May be applied to soil at planting, through chemigation, and as a foliar spray. For drip application, must be applied uniformly in the root zone. For foliar application, an adjuvant may be used. CL only.
• Chromobacterium subtsugae strain PRAA4-1 (Grandevo^OG): 1 to 3 lb/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: M, Group UN. CL only. 
• cyantraniliprole (Exirel): 10 to 17 oz/A CL on celery, 10 to 20.5 CL on celeriac; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 28. CL only.
• cyantraniliprole (Verimark): 6.75 to 13.5 oz/A at planting, 6.75 to 10 oz/A chemigation; PHI 1d chemigation, REI 4h, Bee: H, Group 28. CL on celery only.
• emamectin benzoate (Proclaim*): 3.2 to 4.8 oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 6. CL on celery only.
• indoxacarb (Avaunt): 3.5 oz/A; PHI 3d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 22. CL on celery only.
• methomyl (Lannate* LV): 3 pt/A; PHI 7d, REI 48h, Bee: H, Group 1A. CL on celery only.
• methoxyfenozide (Intrepid 2F): 4 to 10 oz/A celery, 8 to 16 oz/A celeriac (root); PHI 1d, REI 4h, Bee: L, Group 18. Use lower rates when plants are small or infestations are light.
• permethrin (Pounce* 25WP): 3.2 to 12.8 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A. CL on celery only.
• petroleum oil (Suffoil X^OG): 1 to 2 gal/100 gal water; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: L. CL on celery only.
• pyrethrin (PyGanic EC5.0^OG): 4.5 to 17 oz/A; 0.25 to 0.50 oz/gal, 3 gal/1000 sq ft in greenhouse for backpack sprayers; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: M, Group 3A.
• sodium tetraborohydrate decahydrate (Prev-AM): 50 oz/100 gal; REI 12h, Bee: L, Group 25. Do not apply in midday sun or mix with copper, sulfur, or oils. CL on celery only.
• spinetoram (Radiant SC): 5 to 10 oz/A celery, 6 to 8 oz/A celeriac; PHI 1d celery, 3d celeriac, REI 4h, Bee: M, Group 5. CL only on celeriac. 
• spinosad (Entrust SC^OG): 3 to 6 oz/A; PHI 1d celery, 3d celeriac, REI 4h, Bee: M, Group 5. Do not apply to celery seedlings intended for transplant. Not for ICW on celeriac. 
• tebufenozide (Confirm 2F): 6 to 8 oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 4h, Bee: L, Group 18. Use lower rate for early-season applications to young, small plants. Use of an adjuvant is recommended. Celery only.
• zeta-cypermethrin (Mustang*): 3.2 to 4 oz/A for ICW on celeriac and CL on celery, 2.24 to 4 oz/A for ICW on celery, 1.76 to 4 oz/A for CL on celeriac; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A.

Leafminers (Liriomyza spp.)

There are several species of leafminers in the genus Liriomyza, including the serpentine leafminer (L. trifolii), the vegetable leafminer (L. sativae), pea leafminer (L. huidobrensis), and cabbage leafminer (L. brassicae). Most of these species feed on a broad range of vegetables, weeds, flowers, and wild plants. Cabbage leafminer is most often found on brassicas, and rarely on other crop groups. In southern regions of the US, Liriomyza leafminers can be pests of basil, beans, cabbage and other brassicas, celery, lettuce, pepper, eggplant, tomato, and cucurbits. In New England, especially with greater use of selective insecticides that conserve natural enemies, these leafminers rarely reach pest status.

Adults in this group are small (2.0-2.5 mm), hump-backed, clear-winged flies with black and yellow markings. Females lay eggs within the leaf, and larvae feed between the upper and lower surfaces of the leaf, creating winding mines. When fully grown, larvae emerge and form a brown pupa about the size of a rice grain on the leaf or in the soil. The life cycle takes 3-4 weeks, depending on temperature. Mines render the leaf unmarketable, reduce photosynthetic capacity, and provide entry for pathogens. Leafminers are generally controlled by naturally occurring parasites unless parasites are disrupted by broad-spectrum insecticide applications. There is also a commercially available biological control, the tiny wasp parasitoid, Diglyphus isaea, used against Liriomyza leafminers in many crops; this works best in warm weather. 

In the southern and western US, pesticide resistance has become a problem. Avoid obtaining transplants from outside the Northeast, which could carry resistant strains. Control broadleaf weeds in and around the crop. Incorporate infested crop residues after harvest to prevent emergence and movement to new plantings. Most importantly, use selective insecticides on other pests to conserve natural enemies. Scouting methods include catching adults on yellow sticky traps placed in the mid or lower canopy or trapping pupae in trays underneath the plants. Counting mines is a good index of past activity, but mines may be vacant and searching for larvae in mines is time-consuming. Treatment may be warranted if damage is delaying growth, if marketable parts of the plant are being damaged, or if adult fly populations are increasing. 

See the beets and chard section for leafminers that occur in the Amaranthaceae crop group (spinach, beets, chard).

• abamectin (Agri-Mek* SC): 1.75 to 3.5 oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 6. Must be mixed with a non-ionic wetting, spreading and/or penetrating spray adjuvant; do not use binder or sticker type adjuvant. Celery only.
• chlorantraniliprole (Coragen): 5 to 7.5 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 4h, Bee: L, Group 28. May be applied to soil at planting, through drip chemigation, and as a foliar spray. For foliar application an adjuvant may be used. Larvae only. Celery only.
• cyantraniliprole (Exirel): 13.5 to 20.5 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 28. Celery only.
• cyantraniliprole (Verimark): 6.75 to 13.5 oz/A at planting, 6.75 to 10 oz/A chemigation; PHI 1d chemigation, REI 4h, Bee: H, Group 28. Celery only.
• cyromazine (Trigard): 2.66 oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Bee: M, Group 17. Celery only.
• dimethoate (Dimethoate 4EC): 1 pt/A; PHI 7d, REI 48h, Bee: H, Group 1B. Celery only.
• dinotefuran (Venom): 1 to 3 oz/A foliar or 5 to 7.5 oz/A soil; PHI 1d foliar, 21d soil, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 4A. Soil application may be as a band during bedding, in-furrow at seeding, as a transplant or post-seeding drench, as a sidedress, or through drip. Celery only.
• emamectin benzoate (Proclaim*): 3.2 to 4.8 oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 6. Suppression only. Celery only.
• insecticidal soap (M-Pede^OG): 1.25 to 2.5 oz/gal water; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: L. Spray to wet all infested plant surfaces. May need to make repeated applications and/or use a companion insecticide. Apply this product only in a tank mix combination with a labeled companion insecticide. 
• permethrin (Pounce* 25WP): 6.4 to 12.8 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A. Celery only.
• petroleum oil (Suffoil X^OG): 1 to 2 gal/100 gal water; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: L. Celery only.
• spinetoram (Radiant SC): 6 to 10 oz/A celery, 6 to 8 oz/A celeriac; PHI 1d celery, 3d celeriac, REI 4h, Bee: M, Group 5. Control may be improved with the addition of an adjuvant to the spray mixture.
• spinosad (Entrust SC^OG): 3 to 6 oz/A celeriac, 6 to 10 oz/A celery; PHI 1d celery, 3d celeriac, REI 4h, Bee: M, Group 5. Control may be improved with the addition of an adjuvant. Do not apply to celery seedlings intended for transplant.

Mites

See Eggplant for more information about mites.

• abamectin (Agri-Mek* SC): 1.75 to 3.5 oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 6. Must be mixed with a non-ionic wetting, spreading and/or penetrating spray adjuvant; do not use binder or sticker type adjuvant. Use high rate on celeriac.
• Chromobacterium subtsugae (Grandevo^OG): 2 to 3 lb/A; PHI 0d, 4h REI, Bee: M, Group UN. Celery only. 
• malathion (Malathion 57EC): 1.5 pt/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 1B. Celery only.
• Metarhizium anisopliae Strain F52 (Met 52 EC): 40 to 80 oz/100 gal soil, 8 to 64 oz/A foliar; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: L, Group UN. Celery only.
• petroleum oil (Suffoil X^OG): 1 to 2 gal/100 gal water; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: L. Celery only.
• sulfur (Microthiol Disperss^OG): 4 to 6 lb/A; REI 24h, Bee: L, No IRAC classification. Celery only.

Slugs

Damage appears as shredded foliage. Look for silvery slime trails on leaves or turn over soil clods or debris to find slugs during daylight hours. Grow plants away from moist, shaded habitats, use clean cultivation, control weeds, hand-pick/crush slugs, or scatter baits on the ground near infested plants. See the Cabbage section for more information on slugs.

• metaldehyde (Deadline Bullets): 25 lb/A; REI 12h, Bee: L. Soil surface treatment broadcast pre-planting, or band treatment between rows after formation of edible parts. Apply to moist soil in the evening. Do not apply directly to or contaminate edible portions of plants. Celery only.

Tarnished Plant Bug (Lygus lineolaris)

See Lettuce for information about tarnished plant bugs. Bugs may feed on leaf petioles or produce lesions or small sunken cavities on stalks. Injury to the inner growing tip can cause foliar discoloration and tissue destruction similar to the physiological condition known as blackheart. If your crop is near weedy fallow fields or alfalfa, scout weekly from when celery is 4" tall until 3 weeks before harvest to detect TPB and injury, as the economic injury level is low. Treat if there are 2-4 bugs/20 plants. Control weeds in and around the field. Do not plant near legume crops that may be harvested during the season, or TPB may migrate to celery. 

• beta-cyfluthrin (Baythroid* XL): 2.4 to 3.2 oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A. Celery only.
• carbaryl (Sevin XLR plus): 1 to 2 qt/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 1A. Celeriac only. 
• flonicamid (Beleaf 50SG): 2 to 2.8 oz/A; PHI 0d celery, 3d celeriac, REI 12, Bee: L, Group 9C. 
• insecticidal soap (M-Pede^OG): 1.25 to 2.5 oz/gal water; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: L. Spray to wet all infested plant surfaces. May need to make repeated applications and/or use a companion insecticide.
• petroleum oil (Suffoil X^OG): 1 to 2 gal/100 gal water; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: L. Celery only.
• pyrethrin (PyGanic EC5.0^OG): 4.5 to 17 oz/A, 0.25 to 0.50 oz/gal, 3 gal/1000 sq ft in greenhouse for backpack sprayers; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: M, Group 3A.

NOTES: For the herbicides listed below, one product trade name and formulation is provided for each active ingredient along with preharvest interval (PHI), restricted entry interval (REI), resistance management group number, and example of rates and special instructions. In many cases there are other products available with the same active ingredient. However, not all products with the same active ingredient are registered for use in a crop. Always check the product label to be sure that the crop is listed before using. 

Stale Seedbed

See Stale Seedbed Technique for information on the use of these herbicides or flaming.

• carfentrazone (Aim EC): REI 12h, Group 14.
• glyphosate (Roundup Power Max): PHI 7d, REI 4h, Group 9.
• pelargonic acid (Scythe): PHI 1d, REI 12h, Group 0.

Preemergent Herbicides (before weeds germinate)

• bensulide (Prefar 4E): REI 12h, Group 0. Celery only. Apply 5-6 qt/A per application. Do not exceed 6 quarts per year. Can be applied before planting or after planting before crop has emerged. Incorporate 1-2” into the soil within 36 hours by shallow cultivation or with water through irrigation or rainfall. Grass control only; should be supplemented with cultivation or another registered herbicide for broadleaf control.
• trifluralin (Treflan HFP): REI 12h, Group 3. Celery only. Apply 1-2 pts/A per application, only 1 application allowed per year. Can be applied to direct-seeded or transplanted celery before planting, at planting, or immediately after planting. Rate based on soil texture, percent organic matter, and rainfall. Incorporate 2-3” into the soil within 24 hours of application and a second time in the opposite direction for best results. Take care not to bring untreated soil to the soil surface during re-incorporation.

Pre- and Postemergent Herbicides

• linuron (Lorox DF): PHI 45d celery, 60d celeriac, REI 24h or 8d, Group 5. Apply 1.5-3 lb/A per application, only 1 application per year. Apply after the celery or celeriac has been transplanted and established, but before the crop is 8” tall. Only use on celery grown on muck soils. Do not exceed 40 psi spray nozzle pressure. Do not apply when temperatures exceed 85°F or as a tank mixture with surfactants, nitrogen or fertilizer solution, or other pesticides, as injury to the crop may result.
• prometryn (Caparol 4L): PHI 40d celery, 60d celeriac, REI 12h or 48h, Group 5. For celery, apply 2.4-3.2 pts/A before the crop emerges or 1.6-2 pts/A after the crop has emerged. Only 1 application per year. For celery seedbeds, direct-seeded, and transplanted celery, apply broadcast after 2-5 celery leaves are present or 2-6 weeks after transplanting, before weeds are 2 inches tall. Apply in a minimum of 20 gal/A for direct seeded and transplanted celery. Apply in minimum 15 gal/A for seedbed, only after seedbed covers have been removed for a week. Do not apply if crop is under water stress. For celeriac, apply 1.6-4 pts/A per application, only 1 application per year. Do not exceed 4 pts/A per year. Apply over the top of the crop after it has 6-8 true leaves. Apply in a minimum of 20 gal/A of spray. Only 1 application per crop cycle and only 2 crop cycles on the same acre per year. Always apply before the weeds are 2” tall. Rate based on soil texture; do not use on sand or loamy sand. Do not apply if crop is under water stress. Do not apply within 2 weeks after an application of an herbicidal oil, such as “carrot” oil.

Postemergent Herbicides (after weeds germinate)

• carfentrazone (Aim EC): REI 12h, Group 14. Apply 0.5-2 oz/A per application, multiple applications allowed per year. Do not exceed 6.1 oz/A per season. Apply to row middles of emerged crops with hooded sprayers to control emerged weeds, including crops grown on mulch or plastic. Prevent any spray from contacting the crop, or injury will occur. For best results, make application to actively growing weeds up to 4” tall and rosettes less than 3” across.
• clethodim (Select Max): PHI 30d, REI 24hr, Group 1. Apply 9-16 oz/A per application, multiple applications allowed per year, a minimum of 14 days apart. Do not exceed 64 oz/A per year or 4 applications per year. Apply to actively growing grasses. Add 0.25% v:v nonionic surfactant (1 qt/100 gal of spray). Can also be used as a spot-spray by mixing 0.33-0.66% (0.44-0.85 oz/gal) Select Max and 0.25% v:v nonionic surfactant (0.33 oz/gal). Spray to wet, but do not allow runoff of spray solution.
• pelargonic acid (Scythe): PHI 1d, REI 12h, Group 0. Celery only. Apply a 3-10% solution (3-10 gal/100 gal of spray). Rate is based on target weed species. Apply in 75-200 gal/A of spray. Can apply before planting, or as a directed and shielded spray during crop growth. Avoid contact with foliage or crop damage may occur. Spray to wet, but do not allow runoff of spray solution.
• sethoxydim (Poast): PHI 30d, REI 12h, Group 1. Celery only. Apply up to 1.5 pt/A per application, multiple applications allowed per year, a minimum of 14 days between applications. Do not exceed 3 pts/A per year. Apply to actively growing grasses. Rate is determined by weed species. Use with crop oil concentrate (2 pt/A) or methylated seed oil (1.5 pt/A). Note that crop oil can cause injury under hot and humid conditions. Can also be used as a spot-spray by mixing 1-1.5% (1.3-1.9 oz/gal) Poast and 1% v:v crop oil concentrate (1.3 oz/gal). Spray to wet, but do not allow runoff of spray solution.

Blackheart

Blackheart is a physiological disorder akin to tipburn in other crops. It is associated with poor calcium assimilation as a result of inconsistent water uptake. Blackheart can be identified by the death of the growing points of the innermost petioles, or heart. Blackheart occurs in most celery growing regions, and significant losses have been reported in Florida, California, Texas, Utah, and Wisconsin. If conditions favorable for the development of blackheart persist, the entire crown may be destroyed in a few days. In minor cases, the plants may recover or seem to recover, although symptoms can return. Symptom development is much more severe as plants approach maturity. The appearance of symptoms is closely linked to fluctuating water levels and available calcium. Environmental conditions that favor rapid growth, such as heavy rain or irrigation subsequent to drought, favor symptom development. High nitrogen, potassium, and sodium levels may also play a role. Certain celery cultivars are more susceptible to blackheart. Blackheart is prevented by ensuring steady plant growth, avoiding wide fluctuations in moisture and nutrients. Drench applications of soluble calcium can lessen or prevent the development of blackheart. Plant celery cultivars that are not prone to the syndrome. Drip irrigation, which provides more even moisture levels, can help reduce risk.

NOTE: For the disease control products listed below, one product trade name and formulation is provided for each active ingredient (common name) as an example of rates, preharvest interval (PHI), restricted entry interval (REI), and special instructions. In many cases, there are other products available with the same active ingredient. Please see Table 26 and Fungicides and Bactericides Alphabetically Listed by Trade Name for more information on products with the same active ingredients.

The symbol ^OG indicates a product is listed by the Organic Materials Review Institute (OMRI) as approved for use in organic production. See Organic Certification section for more details.

Leaf Spots (Helminthosporium, Cochiliobolus, Cercospora)

Symptoms and the appearance of lesions can differ by pathogen. Lesions will appear on leaves, leaf sheaths, and husks. Plant resistant varieties. Improve air circulation by increasing plant spacing and choosing sites with good air flow. Plow under crop debris promptly after harvest to speed decomposition. Fungicide rotation is critical for prevention of resistance development; do not make back-to-back applications of products in the same FRAC Group.

• azoxystrobin (Quadris F aka Abound F): 6.0 to 15.5 fl oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 4h, Group 11. See label for restrictions. 
• azoxystrobin plus propiconazole (Quilt): 7.0 to 14.0 fl oz/A; PHI 14d sweet corn, 30d popcorn, REI 12h, Groups 11 & 3. 
• chlorothalonil (Bravo Weather Stik aka Bravo 720): 0.75 to 2.0 pt/A; PHI 14d, REI 12h, Group M05. Do not apply to sweet corn to be processed. Sweet corn only.
• fluxapyroxad plus pyraclostrobin (Priaxor Xemium): 4.0 to 8.0 fl oz/A; PHI 7d sweet corn, 21d popcorn, REI 12h, Groups 7 & 11.
• mancozeb (Dithane F45): 1.5 qt/A; PHI 7d, REI 24h, Group M03. 
• propiconazole (Tilt): 2.0 to 4.0 fl oz/A; PHI 14d sweet corn, 30d popcorn, REI 24h, Group 3.
• pyraclostrobin (Headline): 6.0 to 12.0 fl oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Group 11.
• pyraclostrobin plus metconazole (Headline AMP aka BAS 556 SC): 8.0 to 10 fl oz/A; PHI 7-20d (see label), REI 12h, Groups 11 & 3.
• trifloxystrobin plus propiconazole (Stratego): 10.0 fl oz/A; PHI 14d, REI 12h, Groups 11 & 3.

Northern Corn Leaf Blight (Exserohilum [Helminthosporium] turcicum)

Northern corn leaf blight is an emerging problem on farms up and down the Connecticut River Valley. Northern corn leaf blight can develop very rapidly resulting in a complete blighting of leaves. E. turcicum overwinters in and on leaf debris and conidia (spores) can be spread long distances by wind. Under the right conditions (prolonged leaf wetness, extended rainy and humid weather, moderate temperatures), conidia are produced abundantly and disease spread is rapid. Reduce primary inoculum by crop rotation and tilling under of crop residue. Evidence suggests more severe disease in reduced-till systems; 1-year rotations are suggested for conventional practices and 2-year rotations for reduced-till. Resistant hybrids of all maturity groups are available. Lesions may vary in morphology when certain genes for resistance to this disease are present. The presence of these genes results in long, yellow, linear streaks that resemble the symptoms of Stewart's Wilt. Growing susceptible varieties will cause the resistance of nearby resistant varieties to break down. Fungicide rotation is critical for prevention of resistance development; do not make back-to-back applications of products in the same FRAC Group.

• azoxystrobin (Quadris F aka Abound F): 6.0 to 15.5 fl oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 4h, Group 11. See label for restrictions.
• azoxystrobin plus propiconazole (Quilt): 7.0 to 14 .0fl oz/A; PHI 14d sweet corn, 30d popcorn, REI 12h, Groups 11 & 3.
• chlorothalonil (Bravo Weather Stik aka Bravo 720): 0.75 to 2 pt/A; PHI 14d, REI 12h, Group M05. Do not apply to sweet corn to be processed. Sweet corn only.
• fluxapyroxad plus pyraclostrobin (Priaxor Xemium): 4.0 to 8.0 fl oz/A; PHI 7d sweet corn, 21d popcorn, REI 12h, Groups 7 & 11.
• mancozeb (Dithane F45): 1.5 qt/A; PHI 7d, REI 24h, Group M03. 
• propiconazole (Tilt): 2.0 to 4.0 fl oz/A; PHI 14d sweet corn, 30d popcorn, REI 24h, Group 3.
• pyraclostrobin (Headline): 6.0 to 12.0 fl oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Group 11.
• pyraclostrobin plus metconazole (Headline AMP aka BAS 556 SC): 8.0 to 10 fl oz/A; PHI 7-20d (see label), REI 12h, Groups 11 & 3.
• trifloxystrobin plus propiconazole (Stratego): 10.0 fl oz/A; PHI 14d sweet corn, 30d popcorn, REI 12h, Groups 11 &3.

Rust (Puccinia spp.)

The common rust fungus that occurs on sweet corn does not overwinter in the Northeastern United States; each year it is blown up from the south. Rust can appear as blister-like pustules called uredinia on the leaf epidermis. Rust can cause significant reduction in ear weight and yield on susceptible varieties. Corn is more susceptible to infection prior to tasseling so later maturing plantings may have higher losses. Fungicides will control this disease but should be applied before tasseling. Apply fungicides when 80% of the plants show 1 or more pustules per leaf. Resistant varieties are available. Fungicide rotation is critical for prevention of resistance development- do not make back; to-back applications of products from the same FRAC Group.

• azoxystrobin plus propiconazole (Quilt): 10.5 to 14 fl oz/A; PHI 14d sweet corn, 30d popcorn, REI 12h, Groups 11 & 3.
• benzovindiflupyr (Trivapro A): 13.7 fl oz/A (see label); PHI 14d, REI 12h, Groups 3, 7 & 11.
• chlorothalonil (Bravo Weather Stik aka Bravo 720): 0.75 to 2 pt/A; PHI 14d, REI 12h, Group M5. Do not apply to sweet corn to be processed. Sweet corn only.
• fluxapyroxad plus pyraclostrobin (Priaxor Xemium): 4.0 to 8.0 fl oz/A; PHI 7d sweet corn, 21d popcorn, REI 12h, Groups 7 & 11.
• mancozeb (Dithane F45 ): 1.5 qt/A; PHI 7d, REI 24h, Group M03.
• propiconazole (Tilt): 4.0 fl oz/A; PHI 14d sweet corn, 30d popcorn, REI 24h, Group 3. 
• pyraclostrobin (Headline): 6.0 to 12.0 fl oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Group 11.
• pyraclostrobin plus metconazole (Headline AMP): 8.0 to 10 fl oz/A; PHI 7-20d (see label), REI 12h, Groups 11 & 3.
• trifloxystrobin plus propiconazole (Stratego): 10.0 fl oz/A; PHI 14d, REI 12h, Groups 11 &3.

Seed Decay

Buy treated seed. Do not use treated seed for food, feed or oil purposes.

Common Smut (Ustilago maydis)

Smut occurs sporadically but usually less than 2% of the plants are affected. The disease is favored by dry conditions when temperatures are between 80° F and 90° F and nitrogen fertility is high. Injury due to cultivation, hail, or wind-blown sand can increase the incidence of disease when environmental conditions are favorable. Symptoms will appear as galls on the ears or stalks and contain black teliospores. Fungicides will not provide effective control of common smut.

Stalk Rots (Gibberella, Stenocarpella, Macrophomina, Colletotrichum & Fusarium spp.)

Fungal stalk rots continue to be serious diseases of corn. Their occurrence and severity vary from year to year. Early on, plants may wilt, and later symptoms may be leaf discoloration, browning of lower stalk, and the pith becoming hollow. Stalk rots cause losses by causing premature plant death, difficulties with mechanical harvesting, and ear rot due to contact of ears with the soil. Factors that influence stalk rot include varietal susceptibility, weather conditions, the presence of foliar diseases, plant densities, insect damage, moisture availability, soil fertility, and tillage practices. Soil fertility, tillage, and plant density can be adjusted to provide control. Stalk rot is more severe and more common where soil fertility is high. Nitrogen (N) levels can both increase and decease stalk rot; an excess of N in relation to potassium (K) increases stalk rot. A balanced and continuous supply of N reduces the occurrence of stalk rot. Adequate K reduces stalk rot severity by strengthening cell walls. In general, corn debris left on the surface of the soil harbors many foliar diseases that increase stalk rot by reducing photosynthesis. As the population of plants increases, the incidence and severity of stalk rot also increase, especially in susceptible hybrids. Control is most successfully achieved through the use of resistant hybrids. Cultural practices such as balanced fertility, proper plant spacing, and reduction of other plant stresses, such as insect damage, can also reduce stalk rot.

Stewart's Wilt (Pantoae [Erwinia] stewartii)

This bacterial disease is spread by the corn flea beetle and is particularly damaging when susceptible varieties are planted following mild winters. P. stewartii overwinters in the alimentary tract of adult corn flea beetles, not in the soil or in plant debris. Severity of Stewart's wilt depends on three factors: the winter temperatures prior to planting, the amount of disease the previous season, and cultivar susceptibility. If cold winter temperatures occur, fewer flea beetles survive to transmit the disease. The amount of disease in the previous season determines the percentage of emerging beetles carrying the bacterium. Symptoms will include narrow lesions, 5 cm or greater, that will have wavy margins. Hybrids with greater levels of resistance can tolerate more infection with less yield loss. Resistance restricts the movement of the bacteria in the plant. Grow varieties that are resistant to the disease. Use insecticides to control flea beetles, particularly on susceptible varieties in the seedling stage. This is not as effective as resistant varieties, but reduces losses where susceptible hybrids must be planted. Scout frequently for flea beetles as rapid growth of leaf tissue makes untreated surfaces available.

Maize Dwarf Mosaic Virus (MDMV)

There are several strains of MDMV which are spread by more than 20 species of aphids. The virus can be seedborne in maize and probably in some annual grasses. The virus is nonpersistent but is retained by the aphid for up to 18 hours. This allows time for the vector to be transported from southern states where MDMV is more prevalent and many weed hosts occur. Johnson grass is an important perennial weed host for MDMV occurring in southern New England and it should be eradicated. Early symptoms are chlorotic spots and streaks; leaves will later develop a mosaic pattern. Plant resistant or tolerant corn varieties. Golden Gleam, Sundance, Spring Gold, Seneca Star, Early Fortune, Sugar Loaf, Dandy, and Capitan have some tolerance. Enforcer, Biguard, Silver Red, and Seneca 258 are resistant. MDMV is more likely to be a problem for later plantings. Plant late plantings away from peach trees, as peach is an overwintering host of the green peach aphid.

NOTES: For the insecticides listed below, one product trade name and formulation is provided for each active ingredient (AI) as an example of rates, preharvest interval (PHI), restricted entry interval (REI), and special instructions. In many cases, there are other products available with the same AI. Please see Table 27 and Insecticides Alphabetically Listed by Trade Name for more information on these insecticides.

The designation (Bee: L, M, or H) indicates a bee toxicity rating of low, moderate, or high. See the Protecting Honeybees and Native Pollinators section for more details.

The symbol * indicates a product is a restricted use pesticide. See Pesticide Safety and Use for more details.

The symbol ^OG indicates a product is listed by the Organic Materials Review Institute (OMRI) as approved for use in organic production. See Organic Certification section for more details.

Caution: Insecticides should not be applied when bees are active in the field. Avoid products with high bee toxicity during pollen shed. If application of an insecticide is necessary while the crop is blooming, select products with low bee toxicity or with short residual period; apply in the evening after the bees have left the field. See Protecting Honeybees and Native Pollinators in the Insect Management section for more suggestions on how to avoid harmful effects on pollinators.

Sprayer Type and Configuration

In sweet corn, the best coverage is achieved with a boom-type sprayer with drop nozzles. The nozzles should be arranged so that one nozzle is over the row and a double-drop system is used between rows, with the lower nozzle directed up toward the ear and upper nozzle directed down, to bracket the ear zone. For whorl and pretassel stages, one nozzle over the row or with a single drop nozzle is adequate. Use hollow-cone nozzles at 75-100 psi to achieve good penetration, droplet size, and coverage. Mist blowers do not provide as effective coverage of the ear zone and may result in poorer coverage in the center of the block because each row of corn acts as a filter. However, on hilly land or for other reasons, a mist blower may be the most feasible sprayer option. If a mist blower is used, plant fewer rows per block for later corn when insect pressure is typically higher. Direct some spray over the canopy, so it can settle into the corn from above, as well as through the corn rows. Spray only in very calm conditions. For all sprayers, assess sprayer coverage by clipping water-sensitive cards on ears at the edge and center of the block and on both sides of the plant, then spraying water at the pressure and speed normally used.

Armyworm, Fall (Spodoptora frugiperda) and Common (Pseudaletia unipunctata)

The fall armyworm (FAW) does not overwinter in New England. Infestations result from moths carried northward on storm fronts from mid-July into September. Flights are heavier near the coast but occur inland as well. FAW flights are sporadic and unpredictable and do not necessarily correspond with corn earworm flights, so monitoring with pheromone traps in whorl-stage corn is very useful. Male adult moths are ¾" long and have mottled brown forewings with a slanting white bar across the wing and plain light tan hindwings. Female moths lay clusters of eggs on the leaves of various host plants, preferring whorl-stage corn to older corn. Eggs hatch in 2-10 days, depending upon temperature. Caterpillars are smooth (unlike CEW) and dark green or brown with lengthwise stripes and dark spots. Full-grown larvae reach 1.5 inches. The head capsule is dark with a distinctive light-colored marking in the form of an upside-down Y.

Feeding damage from caterpillars occurs first in whorl-stage corn, deep within the whorl, on leaves, and in the newly forming green tassel. In whorl stage corn, caterpillars produce ragged feeding damage to leaves and masses of sawdust-like excrement. As corn matures, larvae burrow into the side of corn ears, leaving behind frass and a large hole, and into the tip, making a mess of the kernels and rendering the ear unmarketable. When full grown, larvae drop to the ground and pupate in the soil. The most effective way to prevent ear damage is to apply controls during whorl and tassel stage. If flights remain high throughout ear development, silk sprays may be needed.

Monitor fall armyworm moth flight with a bucket trap (e.g., Universal Moth Trap or Multipher traps) with a lure clipped under the lid (Scentry 4-component lure is recommended) and a vapor strip placed inside the trap. Hang the trap on a stake at plant height in whorl-stage corn. Identify and count FAW moths at least weekly. Flag the location well and move the trap to younger corn at tasseling. Replace the lure every 2-4 weeks and the vapor strip every 6-8 weeks.

Scout whorl and emerging tassel stage corn by checking 100 plants in groups of 10 or 20 in a V or X pattern across the field. Avoid checking only field edges and select plants randomly, not only where you can see damage. A plant is ‘infested’ if at least one caterpillar is found. If feeding damage is old and no larva is found, the caterpillar may have left the plant to pupate in the soil. A control is needed if 15% or more of plants are infested with FAW.
In emerging tassels, combine counts for ECB and FAW. For example, if 10% of plants have FAW and 12% have ECB, the combined infestation is 22%, above the 15% threshold.

Common armyworm, also known as armyworm or true armyworm, migrates from southern areas anytime from March to September. Eggs are laid on grasses and grains in preference to corn and other crops. Larvae feed at night and are grayish-green with a broad stripe on each side and a yellow-brown head. Damage is similar to fall armyworm and is often spotty and insufficient for treatment. Outbreaks are not common in New England but do occur occasionally and can cause significant damage.

• alpha-cypermethrin (Fastac* EC): 2.8 to 3.8 oz/A; PHI 3d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A.
• Bacillus thuringiensis aizawai (XenTari^OG): 0.5 to 2 lb/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: L, Group 11. Use alone to control light populations or 1st and 2nd instar larvae. Add a contact insecticide to control more mature larvae and higher populations. Must be ingested; apply in evening or early morning, before larvae are actively feeding. Adherence and weather-fastness will improve with use of an approved spreader-sticker. Use high rate at cool temperatures. For resistance management, may be rotated with Bt kurstaki products (Dipel).
• Bacillus thuringiensis kurstaki (Dipel DF^OG): 0.5 to 2 lb/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: L, Group 11. Use alone to control light populations or first and second instar larvae. Add a contact insecticide to control more mature larvae and higher populations. Must be ingested; apply in evening or early morning, before larvae are actively feeding. Adherence and weather-fastness will improve with use of an approved spreader-sticker. Use high rate at cool temperatures. For resistance management, may be rotated with Bt aizawai (XenTari).
• beta-cyfluthrin (Baythroid* XL): 2.8 oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A. For 1st and 2nd instar only.
• Burkholderia spp. strain A396 (Venerate XC^OG): 1 to 4 qt/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: M, Group UN.
• carbaryl (Sevin XLR Plus): 1 to 2 qt/A; PHI 2d ears, REI 24h or 21 days for workers detasseling corn, Bee: H, Group 1A. Hand harvesting is prohibited. Highly toxic to bees. Avoid use in corn that is shedding pollen. May encourage buildup of aphids by killing natural enemies. FAW only.
• chlorantraniliprole (Coragen): 3.5 to 7.5 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 4h, Bee: L, Group 28. For foliar applications.
• chlorantraniliprole plus lambda-cyhalothrin (Besiege*): 6 to 10 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 24h, Bee: H, Groups 28 & 3A.
• Chromobacterium subtsugae strain PRAA4-1 (Grandevo^OG): 1 to 3 lb/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: M, Group UN.
• deltamethrin (Delta Gold*): 1.5 to 2.4 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A. Apply to early instar larvae prior to boring into ear or stalk.
• esfenvalerate (Asana* XL): 5.8 to 9.6 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A. For fall armyworm, target 1st and 2nd instar only. Direct the application to the ear zone to obtain thorough coverage of the corn silk.
• gamma-cyhalothrin (Declare*): 1.02 to 1.54 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 24h, Bee: H, Group 3A. Use higher rate for large larvae. 
• indoxacarb (Avaunt): 2.5 to 3.5 oz/A; PHI 3d, REI 12h for mechanically harvested and 14 days for hand harvested, Bee: H, Group 22. Whorl through tassel emergence (prior to silking) application only. FAW only.
• lambda-cyhalothrin (Warrior* II): 1.28 to 1.92 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 24h, Bee: H, Group 3A. Use high rate for large larvae.
• methomyl (Lannate* SP): 0.25 to 0.5 lb/A; PHI 0d, REI 48h, Bee: H, Group 1A. Some sweet corn varieties may be damaged by methomyl. More severe damage may occur with the Lannate* LV formulation than with the Lannate* SP (Soluble Powder) formulation.
• permethrin (Pounce* 25WP): 6.4 to 12.8 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A.
• spinetoram (Radiant SC): 3 to 6 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 4h, Bee: M, Group 5. Apply as directed spray into leaf whorls or as broadcast spray.
• spinosad (Entrust SC^OG): 1.5 to 6 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 4h, Bee: M, Group 5. Apply as directed spray into leaf whorls or as broadcast spray.
• zeta-cypermethrin (Mustang*): 2.8 to 4 oz/A; PHI 3d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A.

Brown Marmorated Stink Bug (Halyomorpha halys)

See stink bugs in the insect control section of Tomato, Outdoor for information on brown marmorated stink bugs.  

• acetamiprid (Assail): 5.3 oz./A; PHI 7d, REI 12 h, Bee: M, Group 4A. Suppression only.
• bifenthrin (Brigade* 2EC): 2.1 to 6.4 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12 hr, Bee: H, Group 3A. Do not make aerial or ground applications to corn if heavy rainfall is imminent.
• chlorantraniliprole & lambda-cyhalothrin (Besiege*): 6 to 10 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 24h, Bee: H, Groups 28 & 3A.
• methomyl (Lannate* LV): 1.5 pt/A; PHI 0d, REI 48h, Bee: H, Group 1A.

Corn Earworm (Helicoverpa zea)

Corn earworm (CEW) moths migrate annually into the Northeast, traveling north on storm fronts, and may arrive anytime from late June through September. There are pockets of overwintering populations in eastern NY and southern New England. The heaviest numbers are found in coastal areas and up the major river valleys. The severity of infestations varies yearly and may change suddenly during the season. CEW feeds in a wide range of crops; among vegetables, its favorite crops are corn and tomato (hence, it is also known as ‘tomato fruitworm’). 

Adult moths are light tan with a distinctive dark spot on each forewing, a dark band near the margin of the hind wing, and a 1.2-1.5" wingspan. Live and newly dead moths have bright green eyes. Moths are active at night. Fresh silk is highly attractive for egg-laying. When migratory flights arrive, females are ready to lay eggs. Single, globe-shaped eggs are laid directly on fresh silk and hatch in 2.5-6 days, depending on temperature. Newly hatched caterpillars crawl down the silk channel and feed on the kernels at the tip, leaving unsightly frass. In the tip, they are protected from insecticide sprays. CEW larvae may be brown, tan, green, or pink, with light and dark longitudinal stripes, and reach 1.5-2" when fully grown. CEW can be distinguished from FAW and ECB by the plain, golden brown head capsule and small bumps and spines that give the body a rough texture.

Monitoring moth flight with pheromone traps is key to successful season-long control because it enables farms to respond quickly to flight changes and avoid unnecessary sprays. Reports of moth trap captures at selected locations are provided in most New England states. The most accurate and timely flight information will be obtained by monitoring your own fields. Heliothis net traps baited with Hercon Heliothis zea pheromone lures are commercially available and widely used in the region. Place traps in blocks with fresh silk and count moths twice weekly to monitor the average nightly catch. Replace lures every 2 weeks and move traps to a block with fresh silk as soon as silk dries.

Sprays or other control measures must be timed to prevent larvae from entering the ear. Control depends upon maintaining insecticide coverage on the silks when eggs are being laid and hatching. Directed sprays to the ear zone provide the best control. Repeat applications to silk every 3-6 days, depending on trap captures, according to the chart below. If the maximum daily temperature is below 85º F for 2-3 days, spray intervals may be extended by 1 day. Continue treatments until 5-7 days before final harvest or until the silk is completely dry and brown. Use selective materials to conserve natural enemies of aphids and other pests.

Spray Intervals for Corn Earworm

Based on moth captures in Heliothis net traps

Bt hybrids that express the insect toxin found in Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) in leaves, husks, and kernels offer protection against CEW, but may require additional insecticide applications to control this pest. Hybrids containing the Viptera trait are currently very effective at controlling CEW.

• alpha-cypermethrin (Fastac* EC): 2.8 to 3.8 oz/A; PHI 3d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A.
• Bacillus thuringiensis aizawai (XenTari^OG): 0.5 to 2 lb/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: L, Group 11. Use alone to control light populations and add a contact insecticide to control moderate to heavy populations. Maintain frequent spray intervals.
• beta-cyfluthrin (Baythroid* XL): 1.6 to 2.8 oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A.
• Burkholderia spp. strain A396 (Venerate XC^OG): 1 to 4 qt/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: M, Group UN.
• carbaryl (Sevin XLR Plus): 1 to 2 qt/A; PHI 2d ears, REI 24h or 21 days for workers detasseling corn, Bee: H, Group 1A. Hand harvesting is prohibited. Highly toxic to bees. Avoid use in corn that is shedding pollen. May encourage buildup of aphids by killing natural enemies.
• chlorantraniliprole (Coragen): 3.5 to 7.5 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 4h, Bee: L, Group 28. For foliar applications.
• chlorantraniliprole plus lambda-cyhalothrin (Besiege*): 6 to 10 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 24h, Bee: H, Groups 28 & 3A.
• Chromobacterium subtsugae strain PRAA4-1 (Grandevo^OG): 1 to 3 lb/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: M, Group UN.
• deltamethrin (Delta Gold*): 1.5 to 2.4 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A. Apply to early instar larvae prior to boring into ear or stalk.
• esfenvalerate (Asana* XL): 5.8 to 9.6 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A.
• gamma-cyhalothrin (Declare*): 1.02 to 1.54 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 24h, Bee: H, Group 3A. For control before larvae bore into plant stalk or ear. 
• lambda-cyhalothrin (Warrior* II): 1.28 to 1.92 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 24h, Bee: H, Group 3A.
• methomyl (Lannate* SP): 0.25 to 0.5 lb/A, 0.33 to 0.5 lb/A for whorl as needed; PHI 21d, REI 48h, Bee: H, Group A. Some corn varieties may be damaged by methomyl. More severe damage may occur with the Lannate* LV formulation than with the Lannate* SP formulation. May not provide effective control under high corn earworm pressure. Effective as ovicide and larvicide.
• methoxyfenozide plus spinetoram (Intrepid Edge): 8 to 12 fl oz/A; PHI 3d ears, REI 4h, Bee: M, Groups 5 & 18. Apply as broadcast or direct spray to ear zone. Ensure thorough wetting of the silks. A 2-day re-treatment schedule may be necessary at silking. 
• nuclear polyhedrosis virus of Helicoverpa zea (Gemstar^OG): 4 to 10 fl oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: L, Group UN. Do not tank mix with Bt products. Frequent application at low rates is usually more effective than infrequent application at high rates.
• permethrin (Pounce* 25WP): 6.4 to 12.8 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A.
• soybean oil (Golden Pest Spray Oil^OG): 2 gal/A applied when insects first appear (repeat weekly for additional control), 0.5 ml applied by hand directly to silk within 6 to 7 days after 50% of the ears are silking; PHI 0d; REI 4h, Bee: L, Group 25. Apply at least 5 days after silk initiation to avoid tip injury, and before 7 days after silk initiation to gain optimum control. Mix with Bacillus thuringiensis, spinosad, or neem for improved control. One application per field. Commercial oil applicators (i.e., Zea-later) are available.
• spinetoram (Radiant SC): 3 to 6 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 4h, Bee: M, Group 5. Apply as broadcast or directed spray into ear zone.
• spinosad (Entrust SC^OG): 3 to 6 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 4h, Bee: M, Group 5. Apply as directed spray to ear zone or as broadcast spray. Ensure thorough wetting of silks. Effective for low to moderate CEW pressure. May be less effective when CEW pressure is high (13 or more moths/night in pheromone trap) or when a 3-day spray schedule is warranted. A 1- to 2-day re-treatment schedule may be necessary at silking.
• zeta-cypermethrin (Mustang*): 2.8 to 4 oz/A; PHI 3d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A.

Corn Leaf Aphid (Rhopalosiphum maidis)

The corn leaf aphid (CLA) is blue-green or black, with black legs. These aphids overwinter as eggs or females on grass weeds and grains, including barley and wheat. When these cereals mature, winged aphids develop and migrate to corn and wild grasses. Both winged and wingless female aphids occur together. Females produce live young (nymphs), which mature in as little as 6 days, resulting in many generations per year. In corn, CLA first colonizes whorl leaves and the immature tassel. Populations may become numerous enough to interfere with pollen shed, stunt plants, and infest layers of the husk with aphids. Maize dwarf mosaic virus may be spread by the corn leaf aphid, though the most important vector for this disease is the green peach aphid. In addition, aphids excrete a sugary liquid called honeydew, which coats leaves and husks and encourages the growth of sooty mold fungus. The presence of aphids and honeydew on corn husks reduces their marketability. Varieties with purple or green tassels seem less susceptible to aphid build-up than those with yellow tassels. Ample rainfall or irrigation during the silk stage can reduce or eliminate aphid populations. Natural enemies reduce aphid numbers but may not provide adequate control, especially in dry seasons. Whenever possible, conserve predators and parasites by using selective insecticides to control caterpillars. Sweet corn plantings that are seeded before June 10 are generally not bothered by CLA. Monitor for aphids while scouting whorl or pre-tassel stage corn for ECB or FAW in July and August. Pre-tassel stage sprays may be needed when 50% of the plants are infested or if 25% have heavy infestations. Sprays applied before 50% of the tassels emerge are more effective than later sprays.

• acetamiprid (Assail): 2.1 to 2.9 oz./A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: M, Group 4A.
• alpha-cypermethrin (Fastac EC*): 2.8 to 3.8 oz/A; PHI 3d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A.
• Chromobacterium subtsugae strain PRAA4-1 (Grandevo^OG): 2 to 3 lb/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: M, Group UN.
• deltamethrin (Delta Gold*): 1.5 to 2.4 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A. Suppression only.
• esfenvalerate (Asana* XL): 5.8 to 9.6 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A. For optimum results, direct spray at the aphid population to achieve maximum coverage of the exposed insects. Aphids not contacted by the spray, such as in whorls and leaf axils, may not be adequately controlled. 
• flupyradifurone (Sivanto): 7 to 14 fl oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 4h, Bee: M, Group 4D.
• gamma-cyhalothrin (Declare*): 1.02 to 1.54 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 24h, Bee: H, Group 3A. Suppression only.
• lambda-cyhalothrin (Warrior* II): 1.28 to 1.92 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 24h, Bee: H, Group 3A. Suppression only.
• methomyl (Lannate* SP): 0.25 to 0.5 lb/A; PHI 0d for ears, 3d if used for forage, REI 48h, Bee: H, Group 1A. Some sweet corn varieties may be damaged by methomyl. 
• petroleum oil (Suffoil X^OG): 1 to 2 gal/100 gal water; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: L.
• thiamethoxam (Cruiser 5FS): 1.28 to 5.1 oz/100 lb of seed; REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 4. Systemic seed treatment. Use standard slurry seed treatment equipment to ensure uniform coverage of kernels. For early season protection from corn leaf aphid.

Cutworms, including Black Cutworm (Agrotis ipsilon)

Black cutworm is the most common of the many cutworm species that damage corn in New England. Adults are night-flying tan and black moths, while the caterpillars are dark grey to black and up to 2" long. Moths from the South arrive between March and June. Eggs are laid mostly on grasses and winter annual weeds, usually near field areas prone to flooding. Certain fields tend to have a history of repeated cutworm damage. The larvae feed after dark and hide under the soil surface during the day. There are 2-3 generations per year, but usually only the first generation, which produces larvae in May and June, damages corn. Small larvae feed on leaves; larger larvae occasionally cut seedlings off near the soil line. Adults can be monitored with a yellow and white Unitrap from March through May. A catch of over 40 moths before June indicates that frequent spring and early summer scouting is prudent. Scout problem fields weekly, checking at least 100 plants for leaf feeding and cut stems, especially near field margins. Spot spray heavily hit areas or edges of the field if 5% of the plants have been cut down. For best results, apply insecticides between midnight and dawn while cutworms feed aboveground. Foliar-applied rescue treatments are recommended over preventative soil-applied insecticides. Ground beetles, parasitic flies and wasps, and other general predators help reduce populations. When corn follows sod/hay in rotation, fall-plowing may lower cutworm populations by reducing spring egg-laying sites. Weedy and reduced-till fields tend to suffer the most damage.

• alpha-cypermethrin (Fastac* EC): 2.2 to 3.8 oz/A; PHI 3d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A.
• beta-cyfluthrin (Baythroid* XL): 0.8 to 1.6 oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A.
• beta-cyfluthrin plus tebuprimphos (Aztec* 2.1G): 6.7 oz/1000 row ft; REI 48h, Bee: H, Groups 3A & 1B. Must be incorporated into soil to at least 1" depth. Apply at planting as band or in-furrow. 
• bifenthrin (Capture* LFR): 3.4 to 13.6 oz/A for at-plant applications, 4 to 5.3 oz/A for pre-plant incorporation applications, 3.4 oz/A for pre-emergence applications; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A. Apply as T-band over open furrow or over the row on soil surface, in-furrow with the seed, or incorporated pre-planting to seed planting depth. Black cutworm only for PPI and PRE applications. 
• bifenthrin plus Bacillus amyloliquefaciens strain D747 (Ethos XB): 3.4 to 17 fl oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Groups 3A & BM02. Apply as a 5-7 inch band (T-band) over an open furrow, or in-furrow with the seed mixing. Can be mixed directly with liquid fertilizer. Biofungicide suppresses pathogens responsible for damping off. 
• carbaryl (10% Sevin Granules): 10 lb/A; PHI 2d, REI 12h or 21 days for workers detasseling corn, Bee: H, Group 1A. Ground broadcast equipment applications only. Hand harvesting prohibited.
• chlorantraniliprole & lambda-cyhalothrin (Besiege*): 6 to 10 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 24h, Bee: H, Groups 28 & 3A.
• deltamethrin (Delta Gold*): 1 to 1.5 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A. Apply to early instar larvae prior to boring into ear or stalk.
• esfenvalerate (Asana* XL): 5.8 to 9.6 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A.
• ethoprop (Mocap* 15%G): 20 lb/A; REI 48h, Bee: H, Group 1B. Apply as broadcast from 3 days before planting to at-planting time. Immediately incorporate immediately into top 2" of soil.
• gamma-cyhalothrin (Declare*): 0.10 to 0.18 oz/1000 row ft for at-plant soil application in T-band or band only, 0.26 oz/1000 row ft permitted for at-plant soil application in New Hampshire only, 0.77 to 1.28 oz/A foliar; PHI 21d, REI 24h, Bee: H, Group 3A.
• lambda-cyhalothrin (Warrior* II): 0.33 fl oz/1,000 ft. as T-band or furrow application at planting, 1.28 to 1.92 oz/A foliar; PHI 1d, REI 24h, Bee: H, Group 3A. 
• methomyl (Lannate* SP): 0.5 lb/A; PHI 0d, REI 48h, Bee: H, Group 1A. Some sweet corn varieties may be damaged by methomyl. More severe damage may occur with the Lannate* LV formulation than with the Lannate* SP formulation. Variegated cutworm only. 
• permethrin (Pounce* 25WP): 6.4 to 12.8 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A.
• spinosad (Seduce^OG): 20 to 44 lb/A or 0.5 to1 lb/1000 sq ft; PHI 1d, REI 4h, Bee: M, Group 5. Spread bait on soil around plants. Reapply after heavy rain or at least every 2-4 weeks but not more than 3 times per 30 days.
• tefluthrin (Force* CS): 0.46 to 0.57 oz/1000 row feet; REI 48h, Bee: H, Group 3A. For T-banded or in-furrow applications at planting.
• thiamethoxam (Cruiser 5FS): 1.28 to 5.1 oz/100 lb of seed; REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 4A. Systemic seed treatment. Use standard slurry seed treatment equipment to ensure uniform coverage of kernels. For early season protection from black cutworm.
• zeta-cypermethrin (Mustang*): 2.24 to 4 oz/A; PHI 3d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A.

European Corn Borer (Ostrinia nubilalis)

European corn borer (ECB) is a resident pest with 2 generations per year in southern and central New England and 1 generation in northern New England. Sweet corn is one of over 200 crop and weed host plants of this pest; other vegetable crops affected include beans, peppers, and potatoes. Larvae overwinter in stalks of corn and other host plants and pupate in the spring. Adult moths emerge in late May or early June and mate in weedy or grassy areas. Growing degree days (GDD) with a base temperature of 50°F may be used to predict the beginning of moth flight (374 GDD), first eggs (450 GDD), and peak flight (631 GDD). The moths are about ¾" long, light brown in color, with lighter bands on the wings. Three to 7 days after emergence, depending on temperature, females begin to lay flat, white egg masses on the underside of leaves in early corn. Eggs hatch in about 5 to 7 days (100 GDD). ECB larvae are light-colored, with a pattern of small dark spots on each segment. The head capsule is flattened and black or dark brown. Newly hatched larvae are 1/8" long, and full-grown larvae are 3/4" to 1" long. Larvae feed in the whorl, leaving pinhole damage, and in the succulent emerging tassel, creating brown frass in the florets. As the corn matures, these larvae move downward, bore into the stalk, and tunnel into ears through the side or tip. Pupae form inside larval tunnels in the stalk. A second flight begins in mid-July to mid-August, depending on location and the seasonal growing degree day accumulation (beginning of second flight 1400 GDD; first eggs 1450 GDD; egg hatch 1550 GDD). When moths are active during silking, eggs are laid on leaves near the ear, and larvae move directly into the ear by tunneling through the husk or down the silk channel.

Since the ECB overwinters as a mature larva in corn stalks and stubble, plowing under corn residue in the fall or early spring will help control this pest. Fields that have been in sweet corn or field corn for a long time tend to have higher pressure from ECB. Weedy fields also have higher pressure. Natural enemies include the twelve-spotted ladybeetle, which preys on eggs and small larvae. Releases of Trichogramma striae, a tiny parasitic wasp that attacks ECB eggs, can reduce the need for insecticide applications. See Table 23, Biological Controls for Insect Pests for more information.

ECB flight can be monitored with 2 Scentry Heliothis net traps baited with either a New York E (II) or Iowa Z (I) lure placed at least 50' apart in weedy borders of corn fields with the bottom at weed height. Both types of lures are needed in New England because both E and Z strains are present. Check traps once or twice per week and replace lures every 2 weeks. Once flight is detected, corn with newly emerging tassels should be scouted weekly for the presence of ECB larvae by inspecting the tassels of 50-100 plants in groups of 5-20 plants throughout the field. Treat if more than 15% of the plants have one or more larvae present. Timing sprays for tassel emergence reaches larvae in the whorl and the young tassel. A sprayer configuration with one nozzle directed into the tassel and a single drop nozzle to the upper parts of the plant gives the best control. At high infestation levels, 2 applications may be needed to provide control. The use of selective products to control ECB will conserve natural enemies of aphids and ECB.

Corn started under plastic or row cover often reaches the silk stage during the first flight of ECB, such that the first eggs laid hatch during ear development. As a result, ears can be heavily infested by this pest even though scouting in early tassel stage did not show any feeding damage or larvae. If plants are in silk and moths are active, it is important to protect developing ears. This is also true for late-season corn during the second ECB flight, especially when other caterpillar pests are absent.

Genetically modified Bt hybrids that express the insect toxin found in Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) generally provide adequate defense against ECB and may not require additional insecticide applications, but scouting is still recommended to assess ECB and other pests.

• alpha-cypermethrin (Fastac* EC): 2.8 to 3.8 oz/A; PHI 3d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A.
• Bacillus thuringiensis aizawai (XenTari^OG): 0.5 to 2 lb/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: L, Group 11. See the general recommendations for Bt kurstaki below. For resistance management, may be rotated with Bt kurstaki products.
• Bacillus thuringiensis kurstaki (Dipel DF^OG): 0.5 to 2 lb/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: L, Group 11. Must be ingested. Apply when larvae are actively feeding. Ensure good coverage and use a spreader sticker. Use a shorter spray interval (4-5 days) and high rates under high ECB pressure. For resistance management, may be rotated with Bt aizawai (XenTari).
• Burkholderia spp. strain A396 (Venerate XC^OG): 1 to 4 qt/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: M. Group un.
• beta-cyfluthrin (Baythroid* XL): 1.6 to 2.8 oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A. Applications must be made prior to larva boring into the plant.
• carbaryl (Sevin XLR Plus): 1.5 to 2 qt/A; PHI 2d ears, REI 24h or 21 days for workers detasseling corn, Bee: H, Group 1A. Hand harvesting is prohibited. Highly toxic to bees. Avoid use in corn that is shedding pollen. May encourage buildup of aphids by killing natural enemies.
• chlorantraniliprole (Coragen): 3.5 to 7.5 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 4h, Bee: L, Group 28. For foliar applications.
• chlorantraniliprole plus lambda-cyhalothrin (Besiege*): 6 to 10 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 24h, Bee: H, Groups 28 & 3A.
• Chromobacterium subtsugae strain PRAA4-1 (Grandevo^OG): 1 to 3 lb/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: M, Group UN.
• deltamethrin (Delta Gold*): 1.5 to 2.4 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A. Apply to early instar larvae prior to boring into ear or stalk.
• esfenvalerate (Asana* XL): 5.8 to 9.6 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A.
• gamma-cyhalothrin (Declare*): 1.02 to 1.54 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 24h, Bee: H, Group 3A.
• indoxacarb (Avaunt): 2.5 to 3.5 oz/A; PHI 3d, REI 12h for mechanically harvested and 14 days for hand harvested, Bee: H, Group 22. Whorl through tassel emergence (prior to silking) application only.
• lambda-cyhalothrin (Warrior* II): 1.28 to 1.92 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 24h, Bee: H, Group 3A. Use higher rates for large larvae.
• methomyl (Lannate* SP): 0.25 to 0.5 lb/A on ears 1 to 3 days or as needed; PHI 0d, REI 48h, Bee: H, Group 1A. Treat a small area of the field to determine cultivar sensitivity before spraying entire field. Phytotoxicity may occur on some varieties. More severe damage may occur with the Lannate* LV formulation than with the Lannate* SP formulation.
• methoxyfenozide (Intrepid 2F): 4 to 16 oz/A; PHI 3d, REI 4h, Bee: L, Group 18. Direct application at the whorl for early season infestations. Broadcast over row for mid- to late-season infestations.
• methoxyfenozide plus spinetoram (Intrepid Edge): 4 to 12 fl. oz./A; PHI 3d, REI 4h, Bee: M, Groups 5 & 18. Direct application at the whorl for early-season infestations.
• permethrin (Pounce* 25WP): 6.4 to 12.8 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A.
• spinetoram (Radiant SC): 3 to 6 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 4h, Bee: M, Group 5. Apply as directed spray into leaf whorls or as broadcast spray.
• spinosad (Entrust SC^OG): 1.5 to 6 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 4h, Bee: M, Group 5. Apply as directed spray into leaf whorls or as broadcast spray. Time applications to coincide with peak egg hatch of each generation. Frequent treatments may be necessary when the crop is growing rapidly, during silking, or under heavy pest pressure.
• zeta-cypermethrin (Mustang*): 2.8 to 4 oz/A; PHI 3d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A.

Flea Beetle, Corn (Chaetocnema pulicaria)

Corn flea beetles are black, tinged with bronze or bluish-green, and overwinter in plant residue around the fields. They move to corn seedlings in early spring, feeding and laying eggs in the soil. Direct feeding damage is not significant, but economic damage can be caused by the bacterial disease Stewart’s wilt, which is vectored by the beetles. Cold winters reduce the risk of this disease, while mild winters improve beetle survival and, hence, transmission of wilt. A Winter Temperature Index uses the sum of the average monthly temperatures of December, January, and February (in ºF) to forecast the Stewart’s wilt severity for the season: wilt is predicted to be absent if the Index is <90ºF, intermediate if 90-100º F, and destructive if >100ºF. The disease may appear on the earliest plantings and grow worse on succession plantings of susceptible varieties. Use resistant or tolerant varieties where possible, especially in early plantings (see Sweet Corn Varieties Section). Spunbonded row covers protect plants against this pest. Scout on sunny, calm days when beetles are active. Start applications when plants are in the spike stage if beetles are present and causing damage, especially on susceptible varieties. Apply additional treatments as needed.

• acetamiprid (Assail): 4 to 5.3 oz./A; PHI 7d, REI 12 h, Bee: M, Group 4A.
• alpha-cypermethrin (Fastac* EC): 2.2 to 3.8 oz/A; PHI 3d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A.
• beta-cyfluthrin (Baythroid* XL): 0.8 to 1.6 oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A.
• carbaryl (Sevin XLR Plus): 1 to 2 qt/A; PHI 2d ears, REI 24h or 21 days for workers detasseling corn, Bee: H, Group 1A. Hand harvesting is prohibited. Highly toxic to bees. Avoid use in corn that is shedding pollen. May encourage buildup of aphids by killing natural enemies.
• chlorantraniliprole plus lambda-cyhalothrin (Besiege*): 6 to 10 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 24h, Bee: H, Groups 28 & 3A.
• deltamethrin (Delta Gold*): 1 to 1.5 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A.
• esfenvalerate (Asana* XL): 5.8 to 9.6 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A.
• gamma-cyhalothrin (Declare*): 1.02 to 1.54 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 24h, Bee: H, Group 3A.
• lambda-cyhalothrin (Warrior* II): 1.28 to 1.92 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 24h, Bee: H, Group 3A.
• methomyl (Lannate* SP): 0.25 to 0.5 lb/A; PHI 0d, REI 48h, Bee: H, Group 1A. Phytotoxicity may occur on some varieties.
• permethrin (Pounce* 25WP): 6.4 to 12.8 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A.
• phorate (Thimet* 20-G): 4.5 to 6 oz/1,000 row feet; PHI 30d, REI 48h, Bee: H, Group 1B. Apply in a 7" band over the row at planting and lightly incorporate. Granules must be incorporated into the soil. DO NOT use in-furrow.
• terbufos (Counter* 20G): 4.5 to 6 oz/1,000 row feet for any row spacing; REI 48h, Bee: M, Group 1B. Place granules in seed furrow behind planter shoe or in a 4-5" band over the row, and lightly incorporate.
• thiamethoxam (Cruiser 5FS): 1.28 to 5.1 oz/100 lb of seed; REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 4A. Systemic seed treatment. Use standard slurry seed treatment equipment to ensure uniform coverage of kernels. For early season protection from corn flea beetles.
• zeta-cypermethrin (Mustang*): 2.24 to 4 oz/A; PHI 3d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A.

Japanese Beetle (Popillia japonica)

These beetles feed on corn silk but are usually controlled by sprays directed at controlling ECB and CEW.

• acetamiprid (Assail): 5.3 oz./A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Bee: M, Group 4A.
• alpha-cypermethrin (Fastac* EC): 2.2 to 3.8 oz/A; PHI 3d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A. Adults only. 
• beta-cyfluthrin (Baythroid* XL): 1.6 to 2.8 oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A. Adults only.
• carbaryl (Sevin XLR Plus): 1 to 2 qt/A; PHI 2d ears, REI 24h or 21 days for workers detasseling corn, Bee: H, Group 1A. Hand harvesting is prohibited. Highly toxic to bees. Avoid use in corn that is shedding pollen. May encourage buildup of aphids by killing natural enemies.
• chlorantraniliprole plus lambda-cyhalothrin (Besiege*): 6 to 10 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 24h, Bee: H, Groups 28 & 3A. Adults only. 
• deltamethrin (Delta Gold*): 1.5 to 2.4 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A. Adults only.
• gamma-cyhalothrin (Declare*): 1.02 to 1.54 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 24h, Bee: H, Group 3A. Adults only.
• lamba-cyhalothrin (Warrior* II): 1.28 to 1.92 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 24h, Bee: H, Group 3A. Adults only.
• pyrethrin (PyGanic EC5.0^OG): 4.5 to 17 oz/A; 0.25 to 0.50 oz/gal, 3 gal/1000 sq ft in greenhouse for backpack sprayers; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: M, Group 3A.
• zeta-cypermethrin (Mustang*): 2.24 to 4 oz/A; PHI 3d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A. Adults only.

Sap Beetles, Fourspotted (Glischrochilus quadrisignatus) and Dusky (Carpophilus lugubris)

Sap beetle problems are more likely to occur on farms producing various fruit and vegetable crops. Adult beetles are 3/16" long and are black (dusky sap beetle) or black with orange spots (fourspotted sap beetle, also known as ‘picnic beetle’). They survive the winter as pupae or adult beetles under soil or plant debris in fields or under leaf litter along hedgerows and field margins. Eggs may be deposited in rotting fruit or discarded vegetable debris (cull piles), in wounds created by European corn borer or birds, and on silk or in kernels at the tip of the ear. Eggs are milky white and resemble tiny grains of rice, about 1/16" long. The larva is a white or light yellow grub that resembles a tiny, thin caterpillar or maggot. Larvae hollow out developing kernels, and damage may be found in the tip and scattered through the upper half of the ear. Full-grown larvae drop to the ground to pupate in the soil. The marketability of ears declines when damage, larvae, or adults are present on or in kernels. Adults feed on pollen, sap, silk, and injured or rotting fruit. Males have an aggregation pheromone that attracts other beetles, both male and female. Adults move to corn at full tassel to feed on pollen and build up as corn matures and silk turns brown. There are 2-4 generations per year, with peak infestations in July (larvae) and late July and August (adults).

Cultural controls are essential to managing sap beetles. Ears with exposed tips, especially super sweet and Bt varieties, are more susceptible to infestation. Research has shown that the tip cover's length and tightness are important to reduce infestations. Some varieties with long, tight tip covers include Accord, Argent, Avalon, Awesome, Bon Jour, Cuppa-Joe, Easy Money, Fantasia, Ka-Ching, Precious Gem, Prime Plus, Profit, Providence, and Renaissance. To prevent or reduce damage, select varieties with good tip cover, use clean cultivation, and control birds and ear-infesting caterpillars. Eliminate or bury deeply any cull piles or other areas with decaying vegetables or fruit, including infested ears. Do not leave infested blocks standing; mow aggressively to chop ears as soon as the block is finished. Deep plowing may be necessary after harvest to bury ears at least 4" deep if infestations are high.

Scout blocks at full tassel and early silk to determine if beetles are present. Unfortunately, there are no specific thresholds based on scouting. Insecticides may be warranted in fields with a previous history of 10% ear damage. Research in Maryland showed that ear infestation begins just after silk emerges and that 1 or 2 applications made 3 and 6-7 days after silking begins is more effective than later or more applications. Insecticides will reduce the number of damaged kernels and ears but will not completely control heavy infestations. Sap beetle adults and larvae are not susceptible to the Bt toxin that is present in Bt corn. Efficacy trials have shown that carbaryl (Sevin), lambda-cyhalothrin (Warrior II), bifenthrin (Bifenture), and methomyl (Lannate) are more effective than most other insecticides. However, carbaryl cannot be used during the early silk period while corn is shedding pollen and does not allow for hand harvesting after use.

• acetamiprid (Assail): 4-5.3 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: M, Group 4A. 
• alpha-cypermethrin (Fastac* EC): 2.2 to 3.8 oz/A; PHI 3d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A. Adults only. 
•  
• carbaryl (Sevin XLR Plus): 1 to 2 qt/A; PHI 2d, REI 12h, Group 1A. 1 to 2 qt/A; PHI 2d ears, REI 24h or 21 days for workers detasseling corn, Bee: H, Group 1A. Hand harvesting is prohibited. Highly toxic to bees. Avoid use in corn that is shedding pollen. May encourage buildup of aphids by killing natural enemies. 
• chlorantraniliprole plus lambda-cyhalothrin (Besiege*): 6 to 10 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 24h, Bee: H, Groups 28 & 3A. Adults only. 
• esfenvalerate (Asana* XL): 5.8 to 9.6 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A. Adults only. 
• gamma-cyhalothrin (Declare*): 1.02 to 1.54 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 24h, Bee: H, Group 3A. Adults only.
• lambda-cyhalothrin (Warrior* II): 1.28 to 1.92 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 24h, Bee: H, Group 3A. Adults only.
• malathion (Malathion 57 EC): 1.5 pt/A; PHI 5d, REI 12h or 72h for workers detasseling corn, Bee: H, Group 1B. Begin treatment when 10% of ears show silk. Apply when nymphs are young. Injury may occur in the whorl and silk stages using this type of malathion product.
• zeta-cypermethrin (Mustang*): 2.24 to 4 oz/A; PHI 3d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A. Adults only.

Seedcorn Maggot (Delia platura)

See seedcorn maggot in the insect control section of Beans for more information about biology and management.

• beta-cyfluthrin plus tebuprimphos (Aztec* 2.1G): 6.7 oz/1000 row ft; REI 48h, Bee: H, Groups 3A & 1B. Must be incorporated into soil to at least 1" depth. Apply at planting as band or in-furrow. 
• bifenthrin (Capture* LFR): 3.4 to 6.8 oz/A for at-plant applications; 4 to 5.3 oz/A for pre-plant incorporation applications; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A. Apply as T-band over open furrow, in-furrow with the seed, or incorporated pre-planting to seed planting depth.
• gamma-cyhalothrin (Declare*): 0.041 oz/1000 row ft for at-plant soil application; PHI 21d, REI 24h, Bee: H, Group 3A.
• lambda-cyhalothrin (Warrior* II): 0.33 fl oz/1,000 ft as T-band or furrow application at planting; PHI 1d, REI 24h, Bee: H, Group 3A.
• phorate (Thimet* 20-G): 4.5 to 6 oz/1,000 row ft; PHI 30d, REI 48h, Bee: H, Group 1B. Apply in a 7" band over the row at planting and lightly incorporate. Granules must be incorporated into the soil. DO NOT use in-furrow.
• tefluthrin (Force* CS): 0.46 to 0.57 oz/1000 row feet; REI 48h, Bee: H, Group 3A. For T-banded or in-furrow applications at planting.
• terbufos (Counter* 20G): 4.5 to 6 oz/1,000 row feet; REI 48h, Bee: M, Group 1B. Place granules in seed furrow behind planter shoe or in a 4-5" band over the row, and lightly incorporate.
• thiamethoxam (Cruiser 5FS): 1.28 to 5.1 fl oz/100 lb of seed; REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 4A. Systemic seed treatment. Use standard slurry seed treatment equipment to ensure uniform coverage of kernels. For early-season protection from seedcorn maggot.

Stalk Borer (Papaipema nebris)

Stalk borer (also known as common stalk borer) is an occasional pest of corn and of other vegetable crops. This pest overwinters as eggs on grassy weeds where adult moths deposited them in the fall. Upon hatching in the spring, the caterpillars feed on grasses by boring into and along the stalk. When the caterpillars become too large to feed within the grass, they migrate to nearby thicker-stemmed wild and cultivated plants. In corn, infestations are heaviest in border rows and in fields with grass weeds. Borers feed in the stalk or deep in the whorl, which may kill the growing tip. Larvae are brown to purplish brown with a broad white stripe on the back and each side. These stripes are interrupted by a distinctive, large brown spot around the whole body. Pupation occurs in the soil in late summer, with adult emergence and activity from August to October. There is 1 generation per year. Reduced tillage fields, which may have higher levels of grassy and broadleaf weeds, may result in increased levels of stalk borer. To reduce overwintering eggs, prevent or eliminate grassy weeds, especially after July. Destroy weeds and grasses at field margins to reduce invasions at field borders. Scout for injury soon after the corn emerges in the spring and treat infested corn as needed. Apply insecticides to outer rows at the first sign of damage by this pest. Treat small larvae before they bore into stalks.

• beta-cyfluthrin (Baythroid* XL): 1.6 to 2.8 oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A. Application must be made prior to larva boring into the plant.
• chlorantraniliprole plus lambda-cyhalothrin (Besiege*): 6 to 10 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 24h, Bee: H, Groups 28 & 3A.
• Chromobacterium subtsugae strain PRAA4-1 (Grandevo^OG): 1 to 3 lb/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: M, Group UN.
• deltamethrin (Delta Gold*): 1.5 to 2.4 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A. Apply to early instar larvae prior to boring into ear or stalk.
• esfenvalerate (Asana* XL): 5.8 to 9.6 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A.
• gamma-cyhalothrin (Declare*): 1.02 to 1.54 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 24h, Bee: H, Group 3A. For control before larvae bore into plant stalk or ear. 
• lambda-cyhalothrin (Warrior* II): 1.28 to 1.92 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 24h, Bee: H, Group 3A.
• permethrin (Pounce* 25WP): 6.4 to 12.8 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A.

Western Bean Cutworm (Striacosta albicosta)

Western bean cutworm (WBC) is a late-season pest of corn that causes direct physical damage to corn and leaves plants more susceptible to pathogens. WBC is native to the US corn belt and has been moving eastward since the early 2000s. WBC has 1 generation per year. Adults begin emerging in June, with peak flight occurring from July through early August. Egg-laying and plant damage occurs August-October.

Adults look similar to other cutworm moths and corn pests but can be distinguished by a long white stripe that runs along the edge of the forewings. Other diagnostic characteristics include a small white dot in the middle of the forewing and a larger U-shaped brown spot further back on the forewing. Adults also have long antennae (⅓-½ length of the body). Adult moths are active at night.

Larvae also look similar to other caterpillar corn pests, but the most prominent difference is 2 dark brown rectangles directly behind the brown head capsule and a lack of black netting on head capsule.

Females lay about 50 white eggs in masses on upper surfaces of corn leaves prior to tasseling. The eggs turn purple about 24 hours before hatching. The caterpillars are very mobile and undergo 6 instars in a month before dropping to the soil to overwinter in a prepupal stage and then pupate in the spring. The 1st-3rd instars of WBC feed on leaf axils, pollen, and corn silks, then bore into the ear during the 4th instar where they continue feeding on kernels.

Pheromone traps can be used to monitor adult activity. It’s best to scout corn tassels prior to pollen shed and upper leaf surfaces of new leaves for egg masses. Emergence holes from larvae that bored into ears can be seen in dry husks after harvest. There is also a NEWA model for WBC to help with timing of insecticide applications around moth activity and when to scout for egg masses and newly hatched larvae. Sprays will be ineffective once larvae bore into ears. Treatment is usually recommended when 95% of corn has tassels and 70-90% of egg masses have hatched

• beta-cyfluthrin (Baythroid* XL): 1.6 to 2.8 oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A. 
• Burkholderia spp. Strain A396 cells and spent fermentation media (Venerate XC^OG): 1 to 4 qt/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group UN. 
• chlorantraniliprole plus lambda-cyhalothrin (Beseige*): 6 to 10 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 24h, Bee: H, Group 28 & 3A. 
• gamma-cyhalothrin (Declare*): 1.02 to 1.54 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 24h, Bee: H, Group 3A. 
• methoxyfenozide (Intrepid 2F): 4 to 16 fl oz/A; PHI 3d, REI 4h, Bee: L, Group 18. Apply at first sign of feeding damage. 
• methoxyfenozide plus spinetoram (Intrepid Edge): 4 to 12 fl oz/A; PHI 3d, REI 4h, Bee: M, Groups 18 & 5. Apply at first sign of feeding damage. 

Wireworms and White Grub

See wireworms in the insect control section of Potato for more information. To avoid wireworm problems, corn should not be grown in rotation with sod or grass crops. Delay planting susceptible crops, such as corn or potatoes, on such land for at least 2 years after the sod has been broken. Summer fallow is recommended for at least 1 season.

Land that was in sod or pasture should be planted to legumes, such as alfalfa or clover, for a year or more before planting corn or other vegetables to reduce the number of white grubs in the soil. Plow or harrow in mid-summer, after harvesting early corn, to reduce grub numbers.

• beta-cyfluthrin plus tebuprimphos (Aztec* 2.1G): 6.7 oz/1000 row ft; REI 48h, Bee: H, Groups 3A & 1B. Must be incorporated into soil to at least 1" depth. Apply at planting as band or in-furrow. 
•  
• bifenthrin (Capture* LFR): 3.4 to 13.6 oz/A for at-plant applications, 4 to 5.3 oz/A for pre-plant incorporation applications; PHI 2d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 3A. Apply as T-band over open furrow, in-furrow with the seed, or incorporated pre-planting to seed planting depth.
• ethoprop (Mocap* 15%G): 8 oz/1,000 row feet; REI 48h, Bee: H, Group 1B. Apply as 6-7" band over closed seed furrow at-planting, then incorporate immediately into top 0.5" of soil. Suppression only for white grubs. Extremely toxic to birds. Do not leave granules on soil surface.
• gamma-cyhalothrin (Declare*): 0.041 to 0.82 oz/1000 row ft for at-plant soil application, 0.26 oz/1000 row ft permitted for at-plant soil application in New Hampshire only; PHI 21d, REI 24h, Bee: H, Group 3A. Suppression only for wireworms. For white grub control in CT, ME, MA, RI, and VT: use for reducing damage when used as T-band or in-furrow on light to moderate infestations. Use 0.14 to 0.18 oz/1000 row ft for moderate infestations. For high infestations, use a premium soil insecticide. 
• lambda-cyhalothrin (Warrior* II): 0.33 fl oz/1,000 ft. as T-band or furrow application at planting; PHI 1d, REI 24h, Bee: H, Group 3A.
• phorate (Thimet* 20-G): 4.5 to 6 oz/1,000 row feet; PHI 30d, REI 48h, Bee: H, Group 1B. Apply in a 7" band over the row at planting and lightly incorporate. granules must be incorporated into the soil. DO NOT use in-furrow.
• tefluthrin (Force* CS): 0.46 to 0.57 oz/1000 row feet; REI 48h, Bee: H, Group 3A. For T-banded or in-furrow applications. Use high rate for heavy infestations. For best control, apply as in-furrow.
• terbufos (Counter* 20G): 4.5 to 6 oz/1,000 row feet; REI 48h, Bee: M, Group 1B. Place granules in seed furrow behind planter shoe or in a 4-5" band over the row, and lightly incorporate.
• thiamethoxam (Cruiser 5FS): 1.28 to 5.1 fl oz/100 lb of seed; REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 4A. Systemic seed treatment. Use standard slurry seed treatment equipment to ensure uniform coverage of kernels. For early-season protection from wireworms and white grub (including Japanese beetle, European chafer, and May/June beetle larvae, and true white and annual white grub).

NOTES: For the herbicides listed below, one product trade name and formulation is provided for each active ingredient along with preharvest interval (PHI), restricted entry interval (REI), resistance management group number, and example of rates and special instructions. In many cases there are other products available with the same active ingredient. However, not all products with the same active ingredient are registered for use in a crop. Always check the product label to be sure that the crop is listed before using. 

Delayed Herbicide Applications

Growers using atrazine (Aatrex) and or mesotrione (Callisto) for broadleaf weed control and either metolachlor (Dual) or pyroxasulfone (Zidua) for grass control in corn should consider delayed applications in their earliest plantings. Reasons for delaying herbicide applications in the earliest sweet corn plantings include:

1. Corn is most tolerant to both Dual and Zidua after emergence. Supersweet varieties and some "se" sweet corns are easily injured by these herbicides when the soil is below 60°F. Both Dual and Zidua as well as atrazine and Callisto can be applied at any time as long as the corn is less than 5" high. Bicep Lite II, a very commonly used prepack of atrazine and Dual, can also be used this way as can Lumax, a prepack of metolachlor, atrazine, and mesotrione.
2. If the first few plantings of sweet corn are sprayed on the same day, the amount of cleaning and rinsing of the spray tank is reduced since it does not need to be cleaned between applications when the same herbicide is used.
3. Delaying herbicide applications on the earliest plantings will also extend the activity of the herbicide later into the season. This is important in maintaining good weed control throughout the season to minimize weed seed production. Growers often rely on sweet corn rotations to reduce weed seed populations in the soil.

Growers should consider waiting until their first planting of sweet corn is 3-5" high to apply herbicide. At this time all fields of sweet corn planted to-date can be treated. Each field sprayed will be at a different stage of growth. After that, each field should be sprayed soon after it is planted, since soils will be warmer and grasses are more likely to emerge soon after seeding the crop.

A possible problem with delayed applications involves the potential for poor control of grasses. Dual, Zidua, Bicep (atrazine + Dual), or Lumax (atrazine + Dual + Callisto) must be applied before grasses emerge. If grasses are not controlled in corn, yield reductions will likely occur. Also, as the soil warms up, grasses are likely to emerge soon after seeding.

Reduced Herbicide Rates for Corn Weed Management 

Be sure to follow the herbicide rates recommended in this guide. Only 1 lb active ingredient of atrazine is recommended for sweet corn in New England. This is well below the rate on the label and constitutes best management practices for groundwater protection. This rate could be reduced further, although the grower should be prepared to make a second application of atrazine if any weeds escape. Rates for Dual and Lasso should be selected based on soil type. Follow the label to determine the correct rate. Reducing the rate of Dual or Zidua is risky since it is very difficult to control grasses in sweet corn once they emerge.

Special Atrazine Precautions

The Environmental Protection Agency and Syngenta have revised the label uses of all atrazine products to reflect the potential for surface and groundwater contamination. Be sure to read and follow all directions and restrictions listed on the label. The preceding section on Reduced Herbicide Rates for Corn Weed Management reflects these concerns. All of the rates listed in this guide for atrazine are within the guidelines of the label. These include uses for single applications (applied before crop emergence or early postemergence) and sequential applications (applied both at planting and postemergence). Please read all labels carefully.

Herbicide Options

Stale Seedbed

The following herbicides are nonselective and are used to control weeds which are present in a field prior to planting the sweet corn or before the sweet corn emerges (see Stale Seedbed Technique in the Weed Management section). If a grower is using a minimum- or no-till system, these herbicides are also used to kill the cover crop that may be present in the field.

• glyphosate (Roundup Power Max): REI 12h, Group 9. Apply to emerged annual or perennial weeds prior to crop emergence. Do not feed crop residue to livestock for 8 weeks following treatment. Consult the manufacturer's label for specific weeds and rates. May be tank mixed with atrazine, simazine, or alachlor.
• paraquat (Gramoxone SL 2.0*): 2 to 4 pts/A. REI 12h, Group 22. Apply in 20 to 60 gallons spray mix to emerged weeds. Field should be prepared several days ahead of treatment to allow maximum weed emergence. Use a nonionic surfactant at a rate of 16 to 32 oz per 100 gal spray mix. May be tank mixed with atrazine or simazine preemergence. Can also be applied as a preemergence. Check label for directions. May be fatal if swallowed or inhaled. *Restricted use: Applicators must complete an EPA-approved paraquat training every 3 years: https://www.epa.gov/pesticide-worker-safety/paraquat-dichloride-training-certified-applicators.
• pelargonic acid (Scythe): PHI 1d, REI 12h, Group 17. Use a 3 -10% solution (3 to 10 gal/100 gal).

Preemergent Herbicides (before weeds germinate)

• acetochlor (Surpass): REI 12h, Group 15. Apply 1.5-3.17 pt/A per application. Do not exceed 1.5-3.17 pt/A per year. Rates based on soil texture and tillage system used (conventional or reduced- or no-till). Do not apply to sandy soils or within 50’ of any well where the depth to groundwater is 30’ or less. Apply in a minimum of 10 gal/A of spray. Can be applied to the soil surface up to 30 days before planting, but for best results, apply as close as possible to planting and prior to weed emergence. Do not apply after sweet corn has emerged. Cultivation should be delayed as long as possible after applying or the herbicide may be diluted. Can also be applied to the soil surface and incorporated into the top 2” of soil anytime up to 14 days before planting. Poor soil tilth or excessive crop residue may reduce control. Do not move soil after incorporation. Can also incorporate into the soil with 0.25” of water within 7 days of application before or after planting corn, as long as corn has not emerged.
• dimethenamid (Outlook): PHI 50d, REI 12h, Group 15. Apply 8-24 oz/A per application, up to 2 applications allowed per year, a minimum of 14 days apart. Do not exceed 24 oz/A per year. If applying a split application, use 8-16 oz/A for the first application and the remaining 8-16 oz/A for the second application. Rate based on soil texture and percent organic matter. Can be applied before up to 45 days before planting, after planting but before emergence, or after crop emergence until corn is 12” tall. If applying 15-45 days before planting, use a higher rate and apply as part of a split-application program where the second application is made after planting. If applying 2 weeks before planting or after planting but before crop emergence, incorporate 1-2" into the soil with shallow cultivation or water through irrigation or rainfall.
• pendimethalin (Prowl H2O): REI 24h, Group 3. Apply 2-4 pt/A per application, only 1 application per year. Rate based on soil texture. Can be applied after planting but before weeds and crop emerges, or after corn emerges until it is 20-24” tall or at the V8 growth stage. Use drop nozzles to direct spray to the soil surface if applying after crop emergence. When applying after planting but before emergence, there is potential for crop injury if herbicide is moved into the seed zone. Minimize the potential for crop injury by preparing a firm seedbed and planting corn seed at least 1.5" deep and covered with soil. May cause crop injury if heavy rains follow an application to dry soil.
• pyroxasulfone (Zidua): PHI 37d, REI 12h, Group 15. Apply 1-4 oz/A per application, multiple applications allowed per year. Do not exceed 2.75-5 oz/A per year. Rate based on soil texture. Can be applied before planting, after planting but before corn emerges, or early after corn has emerged. Plant corn seed at least 1" into the soil. If applying from 14 days before planting until the V4 stage, apply broadcast and do not incorporate. Do not apply earlier than 14 days before planting for sweet corn. For popcorn, can be applied in the fall or winter to manage winter annual weeds, up until 14 days before planting, and in that case, incorporate less than 2” into the soil with shallow tillage.
• s-metolachlor (Dual Magnum): PHI 30d, REI 24h, Group 15. Apply 1.33-2.6 pts/A per application, multiple applications allowed per year, a minimum of 14 days apart. Do not exceed 3.9 pts/A per year. Rate based on application timing, soil texture, and percent organic matter. Can be applied before planting, after planting but before crop emergence, or at lay-by. To target glyphosate resistant Italian ryegrass, apply to the soil surface after harvest from September 1- December 1. Do not apply to frozen ground. The combined applications in the fall plus spring must not exceed the maximum allowed annual rate. Only 1 fall application per crop cycle. Can apply in the early spring between 14 and 30 days before planting, or after planting but before crop emerges. Do not till deeper than 2-3” after application. If applying within 14 days of planting, only incorporate 2” into the soil. Incorporate if dry weather is expected. Reduce soil movement after application for improved weed control. Apply and incorporate after bed formation if planting into beds. Can also be applied after corn has emerged until it is 40” tall. For best results, direct towards the base of corn plants, when they are more than 5” tall.
• simazine (Princep): PHI 45d, REI 12h, Group 5. Apply up to 2 qt/A preplant incorporated or to the soil surface immediately after planting before corn emerges. Use alone only if annual grasses are not a problem. Do not apply on highly erodible soils unless there is at least 30% plant residue cover.

Pre- and Postemergent Herbicides

• 2,4-D (Amine 4): PHI 45d, REI 48h, Group 4. Apply 1-2 pt/A per application, multiple applications allowed per year, a minimum of 21 days apart. Do not exceed 3.15 pts/A per year. Can make 1 application before planting or before corn emergence. Can make 1 application after corn emergence. Do not till for at least 7-10 days after application. Do not use on sandy soil or unacceptable crop injury may occur. Plant corn a minimum of 7 days after application at 1 pt/A and a minimum of 14 days after application at 2 pts/A. In reduced-till systems, apply after corn is planted but before it has emerged. The seed furrow must be completely closed at application. Can also apply when corn is less than 8” tall, as long as leaves have not just unfolded. Use drop nozzles to direct spray toward base of corn if it is over 8" tall. Do not apply from 7-10 days before tasseling through dough stage. Do not apply to open whorls. Reduce rate if temperature is hot and soil is wet. Use only the amine formulation of 2,4-D. Do not use any ester or low-volatile ester formulations. Use all precautions to avoid spray drift to desirable broadleaf crops.
• atrazine (Aatrex 4L): REI 12h, Group 5. Apply 2.4-4 pts/A per application, up to 2 applications allowed per year, 1 before corn emergence and 1 after. Do not exceed 5 pt/A per year. Can be applied before planting and incorporated into the soil less than 2 weeks before planting, or applied to the soil surface immediately after planting, or after corn emergence until it is 12” high. Do not move treated soil out of the row or move untreated soil to the soil surface or weed control will be diminished. If applying after corn and weeds have emerged, add either 1 qt/A of crop oil concentrate or 1 gal/A of spray oil. Apply when weeds are 1-1.5" high. This treatment can be used as the primary broadleaf herbicide treatment instead of an application at planting or it can be used as an emergency treatment if the soil-applied broadleaf herbicide treatment failed. If applied correctly, this application will control the emerged weeds and will continue to provide residual control for later-emerging broadleaf weeds. On highly erodible soils with less than 30% residue cover at planting, use a maximum of 3.2 pts/A. It is recommended to only use 2 pts/A in all of Massachusetts.
• halosulfuron-methyl (Sandea): PHI 30d, REI 12h, Group 2. Apply 0.67-1 oz/A per application, up to 2 applications allowed per year. Do not exceed 2 oz/A per year. Can be applied over the top of corn, or with drop nozzles from the spike through layby stage of the corn. If making sequential applications, the second application should be at 0.67 oz/A, applied only with drop nozzles semi-directed or directed to avoid application into the corn plant whorl. Do not use on “Jubilee” sweet corn. Has not been tested on all varieties; crop tolerance should be verified before treating the entire field. The use of non-ionic surfactant is recommended for use on emerged weeds (1 to 2 qt/100 gal spray). Works on germinating broadleaf weed seeds, as well as emerged broadleaf weeds.
• saflufenacil (Sharpen): REI 12h, Group 14. Apply 2 oz/A per application, multiple applications allowed per year, a minimum of 14 days apart. Do not exceed 6 oz/A per year. Can be applied as a burndown herbicide, up to 14 days before planting, or after planting before crop has emerged. Do not apply after corn emergence or severe crop injury will occur. Can incorporate 1-2’’ into the soil if applying before planting. Apply at 1 oz/A before corn has emerged. No residual weed control will occur. If applying as a burndown, apply 1 oz/A with an appropriate adjuvant. Not for sweet corn grown for fresh market—processing sweet corn varieties only. Has not been tested on all varieties; crop tolerance should be verified before treating the entire field. Do not apply to course-texture soils with less than 3% organic matter. Plant corn at least 0.5” deep and ensure the seed row is closed to reduce risk of crop injury. May result in delayed crop emergence and stunting in cool wet conditions after application.
• mesotrione (Callisto): PHI 45d, REI 12h, Group 27. Apply 3-7.7 oz/A per application, up to 2 applications allowed per year, a minimum of 14 days apart. Do not exceed 7.7 oz/A per application. Can make 1 application before corn emergence and 1 after emergence, or 2 applications after corn emergence. If applying before corn has emerged, apply 6-7.7 oz/A to the soil surface after seeding, with 10-30 gal/A of spray. If applying after crop emergence, apply when corn is less than 30” tall or at the 8-leaf stage. Apply up to 3 oz/A per application (if making 2 post-emergence applications, the maximum rate is 6 oz/A per year). Applying after crop emergence may cause crop bleaching in some sweet corn varieties, but typically has no effect on final yield. Adjuvant restrictions apply to sweet corn applications. Severe corn injury resulting in yield loss may occur if any organophosphate or carbamate insecticide is applied foliar postemergence within 7 days before or 7 days after Callisto application.

Postemergent Herbicides (after weeds germinate)

• bentazon (Basagran): REI 48h, Group 6. Apply 0.8-1.6 pts/A per application, multiple applications allowed per year. Do not exceed 3.2 pts/A per year. Rate based on weed composition. Apply to actively growing weeds when corn has 1-5 leaves and weeds are small. Do not apply to crops subjected to stress conditions such as insufficient moisture or hot or cold temperature, or crop injury may result. Do not graze corn for at least 12 days after treating. An effective treatment in an emergency situation to control certain broadleaf weeds and fairly effective against yellow nutsedge when 4-6" tall. There is less chance of adjacent crop injury from spray drift than with 2,4-D.
• carfentrazone (Aim EC): PHI 14d, REI 12h, Group 14. Apply 0.5-1 oz/A per application, multiple applications allowed per year. Do not exceed 2 oz/A per year. Can be applied as a preplant burndown 1 day after planting by seed up until corn is at the 14 leaf-collar stage. For best results, make application to actively growing weeds up to 4” tall and rosettes less than 3” across. Use drop nozzles to avoid spraying into the whorl and on the corn foliage. Expect to see speckling of the crop foliage after application. Initially, the injury appears to be substantial, but it is not systemic and the corn outgrows the injury rapidly. Has not been tested on all varieties; crop tolerance should be verified before treating the entire field. Weather conditions may also affect the degree of injury observed. Injury may be more severe during periods of warm, cloudy weather with high humidity and plentiful soil moisture when corn growth is rapid and soft.
• clopyralid (Stinger): PHI 30d, REI 12h, Group 4. Apply 5-11 oz/A per application, multiple applications allowed per year, a minimum of 21 days apart. Do not exceed 11 oz/A per year. Apply anytime between corn emergence until it is 18” tall in 10-20 gal/A of spray. Rate based on weed composition. Do not cultivate before or after application, if cultivation is necessary, wait 14-20 days after application. Spray additives are not recommended.
• clopyralid (Clean Slate): PHI 30d, REI 12h, Group 4. Apply 0.33-0.67 pts/A per application, only 1 application per year. Apply 0.25-0.5 pts/A of this product from weed emergence up to the 5-leaf stage of weed growth. To target Canada thistle, apply up to 0.67 pts/A as a broadcast treatment to the entire infested area when the majority of thistle plants have emerged (rosette to 8") and thistles are at least 6-8" in diameter or height up to bud stage. Cultivation can disrupt translocation to the roots of Canada thistle, so for best control, do not cultivate before or after application for 14-20 days.
• fluthiacet-methyl (Cadet): PHI 40d, REI 12h, Group 14. Apply 0.6-0.9 oz/A per application. Do not exceed 1.25 oz/A per season. Can be applied as a preplant burndown or after corn emerges until corn is 48” tall or until tasseling occurs. Do not cultivate within 2 days before or after applying. Do not irrigate or apply within 4 hours before a rainfall as it will wash off the Cadet. Does not control grasses, but can be tank mixed with many other herbicides. See label for details. Do not apply to severely stressed or wet crop.
• glyphosate (Roundup Power Max): PHI 7d, REI 12h, Group 9. Apply 15 oz to 3.1 qts/A per application, multiple applications allowed per year. Do not exceed 5 qts/A per year. Rate based on target weed species. Can be applied after crop emergence as a broadcast spray in Roundup Ready varieties or with a completely enclosed hooded sprayer after the corn is 12” tall in non-Roundup Ready varieties. If applying in non-roundup-ready corn varieties, avoid any contact of herbicide with crop or crop death could result. Can be applied as a spot treatment before silking of corn. Do not treat more than 10% of the total field area to be harvested. Any crop plants receiving spray in the treated area will be killed. Can also be applied after corn harvest to actively growing quackgrass 6-8" tall. Wait at least 5 days after application before plowing. Can be used after harvesting corn but the application must be made a minimum of 30 days prior to planting any crop not listed on the label. Glyphosate is the only postemergent herbicide that can provide excellent control of perennial weed species commonly found in corn, including quackgrass, bindweed, and milkweed. Most effective on bindweed and milkweed at or after bloom.
• nicosulfuron (Accent Q): PHI 70d, REI 4h, Group 2. Not for use in NH. Apply 0.45-1.8 oz/A, only 1 application per year. Do not exceed 1.8 oz/A per year. Best results are obtained when broadcast-applied before corn is 12” tall to young, actively growing grasses. If corn is 12-18" tall, applications should be made with drop nozzles. Do not apply if corn is greater than 18". Has not been tested on all varieties; crop tolerance should be verified before treating the entire field. If organophosphate insecticide (IRAC Group 1B) has been applied to corn, crop injury may occur. Do not use if the crop exhibits herbicide injury from previous applications. Applications must include either a non-ionic surfactant, crop oil concentrate, or an ammonium nitrate nitrogen fertilizer.
• paraquat (Gramozone SL 3.0*): REI 12h or 24h based on application type, Group 22. Apply 0.7-2.7 pts/A per application, up to 3 application before planting or corn emergence and 3 applications after corn emergence are allowed, a minimum of 7 days apart. Do not exceed 8 pts/A (preplant/preemergence), 4 pts/A (after corn emergence), or 1.3 pts/A (harvest aid). Apply in a banded over-row or broadcast application in a minimum of 10 gal/A of spray before corn emergence. Seed with a minimum amount of soil disturbance. After corn emergence, apply with a directed spray (hooded or shielded) or without a directed sprayer when corn is at least 10" tall and nozzles spray no higher than 3" of corn stalk or 1/3 of the corn stalk if corn is over 20" tall. Rate is dependent on weed composition and application use. May be fatal if swallowed or inhaled. *Restricted use: Applicators must complete an EPA-approved paraquat training every 3 years: https://www.epa.gov/pesticide-worker-safety/paraquat-dichloride-training-certified-applicators.
• pelargonic acid (Scythe): PHI 1d, REI 12h, Group 0. Apply a 3-10% solution (3-10 gal per 100 gal). Rate based on target weed species. Apply in 75-200 gal/A of spray or with a spot sprayer until foliage is wet but not to the point of runoff. Repeat applications as necessary. Can apply for vegetative burndown during site preparation, prior to crop emergence from soil, as a directed and shielded spray during crop growth taking care to avoid contact with foliage and green tissue of crops, or after harvest.
• sethoxydim (Poast): PHI 45d for grain and fodder, 30d for fresh, REI 12h, Group 1. Apply up to 1.5 pt/A per application, multiple applications allowed per year, a minimum 10 days apart. Do not exceed 3 pt/A per year. Use only with Poast Protected sweet corn hybrids. Apply until the onset of pollen shed. Do not apply after pollination. Use with crop oil concentrate (2.0 pt/A) or methylated seed oil (1.5 pt/A). Note that crop oil can cause injury under hot and humid conditions. Can also be used as a spot-spray by mixing 1-1.5% (1.3-1.9 oz/gal) Poast and 1% v:v crop oil concentrate (1.3 oz/gal). Spray to wet, but do not allow runoff of spray solution.
• tembotrione (Laudis): REI 12h, Group 27. Apply 3 oz/A per application, only 1 application per year for sweet corn, up to 2 applications allowed per year for popcorn, a minimum of 7 days apart. Do not exceed 3 oz/A per year for sweet corn or 6 oz/A per year for popcorn. Can be applied after corn emergence until the V7 stage for sweet corn and V8 stage for popcorn. Can also be used as a burndown application after corn harvest, but maximum use rates still apply. Add oil methylated seed oil or concentrate to be 1% of the spray solution (1 gal/100 gal of spray solution). In addition, the label requires the addition of nitrogen liquid fertilizer (1.5 qt/A) or AMS (1.5 lb/A). Do not apply tank-mixes of Laudis and atrazine to corn greater than 12" tall. Do not use if Callisto, Lumax, or Lexar was used preemergence, due to herbicide resistance concerns. Most broadleaf weeds should be treated before they are 6" tall and grass weeds before they are 2" tall. Has not been tested on all varieties; crop tolerance should be verified before treating the entire field. Do not use on Merit or Shogun corn varieties.
• tolpyralate (ShieldEx 400 SC): PHI 35d, REI 12h, Group 27. Apply up to 1.35 oz/A per application, up to 2 application allowed per year, a minimum of 14 days apart. Do not exceed 2.7 fl oz/A per year. Apply when corn is emerged up to the V6 stage or up to 20” tall, whichever is more restrictive. Use an adjuvant for optimum activity. Rainfast within 1 hour after application.
• topramezone (Impact): PHI 45d, REI 12h, Group 27. Apply 0.75-2 oz/A per application, multiple applications allowed per year. Do not exceed 2 oz/A per year. Apply when weeds are actively growing, after corn has emerged up until the V8 stage. Crops under stress may show transient bleaching. These symptoms are temporary and occur infrequently. Do not use postemergence if Callisto, Lumax, or Lexar was used preemergence due to herbicide resistance concerns. Most broadleaf weeds should be treated before they are 6" tall and grass weeds before they are 2" tall. May not control species when larger than the recommended size for treatment. Rainfast within 1 hour after application.

Mixing Herbicides for Weed Control in Sweet Corn

Many corn herbicides can be tank mixed with one or more other herbicides to extend the spectrum of weed control. Labels will have detailed instruction about compatible tank mixing partners and instructions on selecting rates, etc. when tank mixing.

Formulated Mixes (Prepackaged Tank Mixes)

In recent years, many products have come on the market as prepackaged combinations of herbicides which were often recommended in the past as tank-mix combinations of products purchased separately. They are designed to expand the spectrum of control (e.g., grass herbicide mixed with broadleaf herbicide). 

There are 3 questions that a grower or pesticide applicator should ask when deciding whether to use a formulated mix or the individual herbicide.

1. Which is less expensive on a per acre basis?
2. Which formulation is easier to apply? Most pesticide applicators prefer to avoid wettable powders, for example.
3. Is the ratio of the 2 herbicides in the formulated mix appropriate for the given field situation? For example, Bicep Lite contains 2/3 as much atrazine as Bicep and should allow growers a better opportunity to obtain good grass control without using more atrazine than is needed.

Following are some examples of formulated mixes registered for use on sweet corn. There are many others in addition to those listed.

NOTE: For the disease control products listed below, one product trade name and formulation is provided for each active ingredient (common name) as an example of rates, preharvest interval (PHI), restricted entry interval (REI), and special instructions. In many cases, there are other products available with the same active ingredient. Please see Table 26 and Fungicides and Bactericides Alphabetically Listed by Trade Name for more information on products with the same active ingredients.

The symbol ^OG indicates a product is listed by the Organic Materials Review Institute (OMRI) as approved for use in organic production. See Organic Certification section for more details.

PESTICIDE USE IN GREENHOUSES AND HIGH TUNNELS:

Pesticides can be used on high tunnel and greenhouse crops if: 1) the crop and pest/disease is on the label, AND the products specifically says it can be used in the greenhouse; OR 2) the crop and pest/disease is on the label, AND the product is ‘silent’ about use in the greenhouse in the greenhouse. Products that specifically prohibit greenhouse use cannot be used in greenhouses or high tunnels regardless of the crops or pests/diseases listed on the label.

Angular Leaf Spot (Pseudomonas syringae pv. lachrymans)

The symptoms of angular leaf spot appear as small, angular brown spots with a yellow halo on the foliage. Leaf spots eventually dry out and fall through leaving holes in the leaves. Spots are typically confined to the veins of the leaves, giving infected plants the characteristic angular spots. On fruit, lesions are small, tan, and appear water-soaked. Fruit is later affected by soft rot that can consume the entire fruit as the disease progresses. Avoid working in the fields when the foliage is wet. Plow crop residue under promptly after harvest to aid decomposition. Rotate out of cucurbits for 2 years. Plant resistant varieties when possible. Use pathogen-free seed or treat with hot-water to kill the bacterium in the seed. Sprays may not be effective if applied too late or if environmental conditions are conducive to spread of the disease.

• copper hydroxide (Kocide 3000^OG): 0.5 to 1.25 lb/A; PHI 0d, REI 48h, Group M01. Do not apply in a spray solution having a pH less than 6.5 or tank mix with Aliette.
• mancozeb plus copper hydroxide (ManKocide): 2.0 to 3.0 lb/A; PHI 5d, REI 48h, Groups M03 & M01.

Anthracnose (Colletotrichum), Alternaria Leaf Spot, and Black Rot (Didymella)

Anthracnose symptoms appear on cucurbits as circular, water-soaked leaf spots. These eventually turn yellow/tan and can become brown and necrotic. Alternaria symptoms first appear on older leaves near the crown. Lesions are small, yellow-brown, and have a characteristic yellow halo around the infected spots. Black rot symptoms usually appear after harvest as small dark watery lesions on the fruit surface. Black fruiting bodies from the fungus can typically be seen on the fruit and appear as black specks. Plant only certified disease-free seed. Rotate out of cucurbits for at least 2 years. Control all weeds, especially volunteer cucurbits. Collect and burn or plow down deeply all infected crop debris after harvest. Grow cultivars with resistance if available. Avoid wounding fruit during harvesting. Immerse fruit in clean and fresh water containing a post-harvest sanitizer. Chemical control can be obtained through a regular spray program of targeted and protective fungicides. Coverage of leaf undersides and fruit is crucial to success.

• azoxystrobin (Quadris): 11.0 to 15.5 fl oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 4h, Group 11. Do not rotate with other Group 11 fungicides.
• azoxystrobin plus chlorothalonil (Quadris Opti): 3.2 pt/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Groups 11 & M05. See label for tank mix precautions.
• azoxystrobin plus difenoconazole (Quadris Top): 10.0 to 14.0 fl oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Groups 11 & 3.
• boscalid (Endura): 6.5 oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Group 7. Black rot and Alternaria only.
• chlorothalonil (Bravo Weather Stik): 1.5 to 3.0 pt/A; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Group M05. Bravo WS can cause injury to watermelon fruit; see label.
• copper hydroxide (Kocide 3000^OG): 0.5 to 1.25 lb/A; PHI 0d, REI 48h, Group M01. Do not apply in a spray solution having a pH of less than 6.5 or tank mix with Aliette.
• cyprodinil plus fludioxonil (Switch 62.5 WG): 11.0 to 14.0 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Groups 9 & 12.
• difenoconazole plus cyprodinil (Inspire Super): 16.0 to 20.0 fl oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Groups 3 & 9. Apply in sufficient volume to achieve thorough coverage.
• famoxadone plus cymoxanil (Tanos): 8.0 oz/A; PHI 3d, REI 12h, Groups 11 & 27. Tank mix with an appropriate contact fungicide with a different mode of action. Anthracnose and Alternaria only.
• fenamidone (Reason 500 SC): 5.5 fl oz/A; PHI 14d, REI 12h, Group 11. Do not rotate with other Group 11 fungicides. Alternaria only.
• fluopyram plus tebuconazole (Luna Experience): 6.0 to 17.0 fl oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Groups 7 & 3. Watermelon only.
• mancozeb (Dithane F45): 1.6 to 2.4 qt/A; PHI 5d, REI 24h, Group M03. Some cantaloupe varieties are sensitive.
• mancozeb plus copper hydroxide (ManKocide): 2.0 to 3.0 lb/A; PHI 5d, REI 48h, Groups M03 & M01. 
• penthiopyrad (Fontelis): 12.0 to 16.0 fl oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Group 7. Black rot and Alternaria only.
• polyoxin D (OSO 5%SC^OG): 6.5 to 13.0 fl oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Group 19.
• potassium bicarbonate (MilStop^OG): 2.0 to 5.0 lb/100 gal/A; PHI 0d, REI 1h, Group NC. See label for small volume application rates.
• pyraclostrobin (Cabrio EG): 12.0 to 16.0 oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Group 11.
• pyraclostrobin plus boscalid (Pristine): 12.5 to 18.5 oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Groups 11 &7. Do not make more than 1 application before alternating with a non-Group 11 fungicide.
• thiophanate methyl (Topsin M 70WP): 0.5 lb/A; PHI 1d, REI 24h, Group 1. Repeated exclusive use may lead to buildup of resistant strains of fungi and loss of disease control. Anthracnose and black rot only.