Insect Control : New England Vegetable Management Guide : UMass Amherst

Outdoor Tomato - General Outdoor Tomato Disease Control Outdoor Tomato Physiological Disorders Outdoor Tomato Weed Control

Insects are seldom serious pests on tomatoes grown in the field; be sure there is a problem before sprays are applied. Ensure that transplants are free of aphids, whiteflies, and thrips before planting into the field.

Aphids, Potato (Macrosiphum euphorbiae) and Green Peach (Myzus persicae)

See the Potato insect control section for more information on potato aphid and the Pepper insect control section for more information on green peach aphid. Scout for aphids under surfaces of leaves in both upper and lower foliage. Potato aphids (PA) feed first in young growing tips, spreading downward as they multiply. Leaves become distorted, with the leaf edges curling downward. They also feed in blossoms and PA colonies cause blossom drop and fruit deformities. By contrast, green peach aphids (GPA) feed first in lower leaves. Scout weekly across the field, sampling 3 leaves per plant at lower, mid and upper levels. Count aphid adults and nymphs and note if numbers are increasing. Treat when aphids exceed 6 per leaf. Beneficials generally keep aphids under control in tomato, unless broad spectrum insecticides are used for other pests. Do not use emulsifiable concentrates on tomatoes setting young fruit, or injury may occur.

IRAC Group 1:

dimethoate (Dimethoate 4EC): 0.5 to 1 pt/A; PHI 7d, REI 48h, Bee: H, Group 1B.
malathion (Malathion 57EC): 1 to 2.5 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.
oxamyl (Vydate* L): 2 to 4 pt/A foliar; PHI 3d, REI 48h, Bee: H, Group 1A. Apply by ground or air when insects first appear.

IRAC Group 3:

alpha-cypermethrin (Fastac* CS): 3.2 to 3.8 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H. See resistance statement on label. Aphid control may be variable depending on species present and host-plant relationships.
bifenthrin (Brigade* 2EC): 2.1 to 5.2 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H.
fenpropathrin (Danitol* 2.4EC): 10.66 oz/A; PHI 3d, REI 24h, Bee: H. May be combined with Belay (see label for rates and increased PHI).
gamma-cyhalothrin (Declare*): 1.02 to 1.54 oz/A; PHI 5d, REI 48h, Bee: H. See resistance statement on label. Suppression only.
pyrethrin (PyGanic EC5.0^OG): 4.5 to 15.61 oz/A, or 0.25 to 0.50 oz/gal and 3 gal/1000 sq ft in greenhouse for backpack sprayers; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: M.

IRAC Group 4:

acetamiprid (Assail 30SG): 2 to 4 oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Bee: M, Group 4A.
dinotefuran (Safari 20SG): 3.5 to 7 oz/100 gal, 7 to 14 oz/A, 0.16 to 0.32 oz/1,000 sq ft; REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 4A. For transplants while in greenhouse. Not for field use.
dinotefuran (Venom): 1 to 4 oz/A foliar, 5 to 7.5 oz/A soil; PHI 1d foliar, 21d soil, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 4A. Do not apply to vegetables grown for seed. Suppression of green peach aphid (foliar and soil) and potato aphid (soil).
flupyradifurone (Sivanto): 10.5 to 14 oz/A foliar green peach aphid, 7 to 14 oz/A foliar other aphids, 21 to 28 oz/A soil, 0.34 oz/10,000 plants on seedling transplants in greenhouse (tray drench); PHI 1d foliar, 45d soil and greenhouse, REI 4h, Bee: L, Group 4D.
imidacloprid (Admire Pro): 1.3 to 2.2 oz/A foliar, 7 to 10.5 oz/A soil, 0.44 oz/10,000 plants on seedling transplants in greenhouse; PHI 0d foliar, 21d soil, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 4A.
thiamethoxam (Actara): 2 to 3 oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 4A.
thiamethoxam (Platinum 75SG): 1.66 to 3.67 oz/A; PHI 30d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 4A. Systemic insecticide used at planting.

IRAC Group 8:

sodium tetraborohydrate decahydrate (Prev-AM): 100 oz/100 gal; REI 24h, Bee: L, Group 8D. Do not apply in midday sun or mix with copper.

IRAC Group 9:

afidopyropen (Sefina): 3 oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: L, Group 9D.
pymetrozine (Fulfill): 2.75 oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: L, Group 9B. Translaminar. Green peach and potato aphids only.

IRAC Group 21:

tolfenpyrad (Torac): 17 to 21 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H.

IRAC Group 23:

spirotetramat (Movento): 4 to 5 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 24h, Bee: M. Must be tank-mixed with a spray adjuvant with spreading and penetrating properties to maximize leaf uptake and systemicity. Don't use sticker adjuvants. Controls immature stages, may also reduce adult fertility. Do not use in greenhouses or high tunnels.

IRAC Group 28:

cyantraniliprole (Exirel): 13.5 to 20.5 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H.
cyantraniliprole (Verimark): 6.75 to 13.5 oz/A at planting, 6.75 to 10 oz/A chemigation/soil injection; PHI 1d, REI 4h, Bee: H. Suppression only.

IRAC Group 29:

flonicamid (Beleaf 50SG): 2.8 to 4.28 oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: L.

IRAC Group UN:

azadirachtin (Azatin O^OG): 4 to 16 oz/A foliar or drench; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: L. When using lower rates, combine with adjuvant for improved spray coverage and translaminar uptake.
Chromobacterium subtsugae strain PRAA4-1 (Grandevo^OG): 2 to 3 lb/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: M.
insecticidal soap (M-Pede^OG): 1.25 to 2.5 oz/gal water; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: L. Apply with a labeled companion insecticide on green peach aphids. On other aphids, use of a companion insecticide is recommended for enhanced and residual control. Do not mix with sulfur.
mineral oil (SuffOil-X^OG): 1 to 2 gal/100 gal water; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: L. Apply as needed.

Colorado Potato Beetle (Leptinotarsa decemlineata)

See the Potato and Eggplant insect control sections for more information on Colorado potato beetle. If possible, do not transplant tomatoes to fields previously in potato or eggplant. Trap cropping may be used by rotating tomatoes to the opposite side of a field with a prior potato, eggplant or tomato planting and seeding 2 rows of early potatoes between old and new plantings. Treat potatoes with effective insecticide to kill migrating beetles before they infest tomatoes. If foliar insecticides are needed on tomatoes, use only selective insecticides to preserve natural enemies and avoid secondary pest problems such as aphids. Although Colorado potato beetles may attack young transplants in the field, most varieties develop resistance within a few weeks of field setting.

IRAC Group 1:

oxamyl (Vydate* L): 2 to 4 pt/A foliar; PHI 3d, REI 48h, Bee: H, Group 1A. Apply by ground or air when insects first appear.

IRAC Group 3:

alpha-cypermethrin (Fastac* CS): 2.2 to 3.8 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H.
beta-cyfluthrin (Baythroid* XL): 1.6 to 2.8 oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: H. See resistance statement on label.
deltamethrin (Delta Gold*): 1.5 to 2.4 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H. See resistance statement on label.
esfenvalerate (Asana* XL): 5.8 to 9.6 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H.
fenpropathrin (Danitol* 2.4EC): 10.66 oz/A; PHI 3d, REI 24h, Bee: H. May be combined with Belay (see label for rates and increased PHI).
gamma-cyhalothrin (Declare*): 1.02 to 1.54 oz/A; PHI 5d, REI 48h, Bee: H. See resistance statement on label.
lambda-cyhalothrin (Warrior* II): 1.28 to 1.92 oz/A; PHI 5d, REI 24h, Bee: H. See resistance statement on label.
permethrin (Pounce* 25WP): 3.2 to 12.8 oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: H. Do not apply to varieties which produce fruit less than 1" in diameter, such as cherry and grape tomatoes.
pyrethrin (PyGanic EC5.0^OG): 4.5 to 15.61 oz/A, or 0.25 to 0.50 oz/gal and 3 gal/1000 sq ft in greenhouse for backpack sprayers; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: M.
zeta-cypermethrin (Mustang* Maxx): 2.24 to 4 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H.

IRAC Group 4:

acetamiprid (Assail 30SG): 1.5 to 2.5 oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Bee: M, Group 4A.
dinotefuran (Venom): 1 to 4 oz/A foliar, 5 to 7.5 oz/A soil; PHI 1d foliar, 21d soil, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 4A. Do not apply to vegetables grown for seed.
flupyradifurone (Sivanto): 10.5 to 14 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 4h, Bee: L, Group 4D. Foliar applications only.
imidacloprid (Admire Pro): 1.3 to 2.2 oz/A foliar, 7 to 10.5 oz/A soil; PHI 0d foliar, 21d soil, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 4A.
thiamethoxam (Actara): 2 to 3 oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 4A.
thiamethoxam (Platinum 75SG): 1.66 to 3.67 oz/A; PHI 30d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 4A. Systemic insecticide used at planting.

IRAC Group 5:

spinetoram (Radiant SC): 5 to 10 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 4h, Bee: M.
spinosad (Entrust SC^OG): 3 to 6 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 4h, Bee: M. Do not apply to seedlings for transplant.

IRAC Group 6:

abamectin (Agri-Mek* SC): 1.75 to 3.5 oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Bee: H.

IRAC Group 15:

novaluron (Rimon 0.83EC): 9 to 12 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: L. Do not apply to successive generations. Most effective on 1st and 2nd instars.

IRAC Group 17:

cyromazine (Trigard): 2.66 oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: M. Insect growth regulator for small larvae just after egg hatch.

IRAC Group 28:

chlorantraniliprole (Coragen): 3.5 to 7.5 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 4h, Bee: L. May be applied through drip irrigation or as a foliar spray.
cyantraniliprole (Exirel): 7 to 13.5 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H.
cyantraniliprole (Verimark): 5 to 10 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 4h, Bee: H. For drip chemigation or soil injection applications.
cyclaniliprole (Harvanta 50SL): 10.9 to 16.4 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 4h, Bee: H.

IRAC Group 30:

isocycloseram (Incipio): 2.1 to 4.1 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H. Do not treat plants grown for transplanting. Not for use in greenhouses.

IRAC Group UN:

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. When using lower rates, combine with adjuvant for improved spray coverage and translaminar uptake. Insect growth regulator for small larvae.
Beauveria bassiana (Mycotrol ESO^OG): 0.5 qt to 1 qt/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: L. Apply up to 3 qt/A for high pest pressure and/or dense foliage.
mineral oil (SuffOil-X^OG): 1 to 2 gal/100 gal water; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: L. Apply as needed. For beetle larvae only.

Cutworm, Black (Agrotis ipsilon) and Variegated (Peridroma saucia)

The most common species on tomatoes is the black cutworm, but occasionally the variegated cutworm can also be a problem. Black cutworms tend to do minor leaf feeding or cut seedling stems shortly after transplanting (see the Pepper insect control section for more information on black cutworm). Variegated cutworms occur later in the season and will feed on leaves, but will also chew shallow or deep holes in the fruit. Adults are night-flying reddish-brown moths, while the caterpillars are brownish-grey with diamond-shaped marks along the back and light lines along the sides. They are up to 2" long. Moths from the South arrive in mid- to late summer. Some may also survive warm winters as pupae in the soil and feed on seedlings in the spring. The larvae hide under the soil surface, within the plant canopy, or in fruit holes during the day and feed after dark. There are 2 generations per year. Moths can be monitored with a black light trap or with a yellow and white Unitrap from July through September. Scout fields weekly, checking at least 100 plants for fruit feeding. Spray tomatoes if 1% of the plants are infested with variegated cutworms. For best results, make applications after dark. Thorough coverage of the upper and lower foliage is needed for good control. Parasitic flies, wasps, and other general predators help reduce populations. Weedy plantings tend to suffer greater damage.

IRAC Group 1:

carbaryl (10% Sevin Granules): 20 lb/A; PHI 3d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 1A. Apply evenly over soil surface.
methomyl (Lannate* LV): 1.5 pt/A; PHI 1d, REI 48h, Bee: H, Group 1A. Variegated cutworm only.

IRAC Group 3:

alpha-cypermethrin (Fastac* CS): 2.2 to 3.8 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H.
bifenthrin (Brigade* 2EC): 2.1 to 5.2 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H.
deltamethrin (Delta Gold*): 1.5 to 2.4 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H.
esfenvalerate (Asana* XL): 5.8 to 9.6 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H.
fenpropathrin (Danitol* 2.4EC): 10.66 oz/A; PHI 3d, REI 24h, Bee: H. May be combined with Dipel DF for variegated cutworm (see label for rates).
gamma-cyhalothrin (Declare*): 0.77 to 1.28 oz/A; PHI 5d, REI 48h, Bee: H.
lambda-cyhalothrin (Warrior* II): 0.96 to 1.6 oz/A; PHI 5d, REI 24h, Bee: H.
zeta-cypermethrin (Mustang* Maxx): 2.24 to 4 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H.

IRAC Group 5:

spinosad (Seduce^OG): 20 to 44 lb/A, 0.5 to1 lb/1000 sq ft.; PHI 1d, REI 4h, Bee: M. Spread bait on soil around plants.

IRAC Group 18:

tebufenozide (Confirm 2F): 6 to 8 oz/A early season on young plants, 8 to 16 oz/A mid- to late-season; PHI 7d, REI 4h, Bee: L. Black cutworm only.

IRAC Group UN:

Burkholderia spp. strain A396 (Venerate XC^OG): 1 to 4 qt/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: M. Variegated cutworm only.
Chromobacterium subtsugae strain PRAA4-1 (Grandevo^OG): 1 to 3 lb/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: M. Variegated cutworm only.

Flea Beetle, Potato (Epitrix cucumeris)

See the Eggplant insect control for information on flea beetles that attack potato and other solanaceous crops. Adults spend the winter under plant residue along tree lines or in the field. In the early spring, they feed on solanaceous weeds until they move to tomato or other solanaceous crops. Numerous tiny feeding shot holes can injure leaves and stunt young plants. Management practices include clean cultivation, crop rotation, removing or avoiding spring weed hosts, row covers, and spot treatments targeting young tomato plants along the field edges. Perimeter Trap Cropping: young tomato plants can be protected from flea beetles by planting Italian or Oriental eggplant around the tomato field. Full-size plants rarely require treatment for flea beetles. Most insecticides registered to control Colorado potato beetle, including spinosad, will control flea beetles.

IRAC Group 1:

carbaryl (Sevin XLR Plus): 0.5 to 1 qt/A; PHI 3d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 1A. Do not apply to crops or weeds in bloom.

IRAC Group 3:

alpha-cypermethrin (Fastac* CS): 2.2 to 3.8 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H.
beta-cyfluthrin (Baythroid* XL): 2.8 oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: H.
bifenthrin (Brigade* 2EC): 2.1 to 5.2 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H.
deltamethrin (Delta Gold*): 1.5 to 2.4 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H.
esfenvalerate (Asana* XL): 5.8 to 9.6 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H.
fenpropathrin (Danitol* 2.4EC): 10.66 oz/A; PHI 3d, REI 24h, Bee: H. May be combined with Belay (see label for rates and increased PHI).
gamma-cyhalothrin (Declare*): 1.02 to 1.54 oz/A; PHI 5d, REI 48h, Bee: H.
lambda-cyhalothrin (Warrior* II): 1.28 to 1.92 oz/A; PHI 5d, REI 24h, Bee: H.
pyrethrin (PyGanic EC5.0^OG): 4.5 to 15.61 oz/A, or 0.25 to 0.50 oz/gal and 3 gal/1000 sq ft in greenhouse for backpack sprayers; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: M.
zeta-cypermethrin (Mustang* Maxx): 2.24 to 4 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H.

IRAC Group 4:

dinotefuran (Venom): 1 to 4 oz/A foliar, 5 to 7.5 oz/A soil; PHI 1d foliar, 21d soil, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 4A. Do not apply to vegetables grown for seed.
imidacloprid (Admire Pro): 7 to 10.5 oz/A soil; PHI 21d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 4A. Soil applications only for flea beetles.
thiamethoxam (Actara): 2 to 3 oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 4A.
thiamethoxam (Platinum 75SG): 1.66 to 3.67 oz/A; PHI 30d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 4A. Systemic insecticide used at planting.

IRAC Group 5:

spinosad (Entrust SC^OG): 4 to 8 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 4h, Bee: M. Do not apply to seedlings for transplant. Suppression only.

IRAC Group 21:

tolfenpyrad (Torac): 17 to 21 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H.

IRAC Group 28:

cyantraniliprole (Verimark): 6.75 to 13.5 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 4h, Bee: H. For soil applications at planting.

IRAC Group 30:

isocycloseram (Incipio): 2.1 to 4.1 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H. Do not treat plants grown for transplanting. Not for use in greenhouses.

IRAC Group UN:

kaolin (Surround WP^OG): 12.5 to 50 lb/A (12.5 lb/25 gal preferred up to fruit set), 0.125 to 0.5 lb/gal; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: L. Suppression only. Supplemental controls may be needed for complete control.
mineral oil (SuffOil-X^OG): 1 to 2 gal/100 gal water; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: L. Apply as needed. For beetle larvae only.

Slugs

Damage appears as shredded foliage or fruit holes. 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, Broccoli, Cauliflower and Other Brassica Crops insect control section for more information on slugs.

IRAC Group UN:

iron phosphate (Sluggo: Snail and Slug Bait^OG): 20 to 44 lb/A; PHI 0d, REI 0h, Bee: L. 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 maximum in single application, up to 3x per season; REI 12h, Bee: L. Apply to moist soil in the evening. Do not apply directly to or contaminate edible portions of plants.

Spotted Wing Drosophila (Drosophila suzukii)

Spotted wing drosophila (SWD) is an invasive pest that first arrived and spread throughout New England in 2011. It is primarily a pest of fruit crops, where the ability to oviposit in sound fruit (especially blueberry, raspberry, cherry, and peach) makes it a more serious pest than native fruit flies. SWD is deterred from laying eggs in sound tomato fruit by the strength of the tomato skin. However, where there are cracks and other openings, eggs are laid and larvae build up in fruit, liquefying the fruit contents and leaving nothing but an empty skin. Thus, the management of cracked fruit is key to preventing buildup of SWD populations in tomatoes and possible contamination of cracked tomato fruit and containers post-harvest. See the Greenhouse and High Tunnel Tomato insect control section for more information on controlling SWD in the field and postharvest.

Follow Extension monitoring alerts or place traps on your own farm, to know when SWD is starting to build up in your area. Currently, there are no thresholds for use of insecticides to control SWD in tomato. Few insecticides are registered specifically for control of SWD on tomato. Consult Extension SWD materials for updates on efficacy of products labeled for tomato.

IRAC Group 1:

malathion (Malathion 57EC): 2.5 pt/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 1B.

Stink Bugs, Brown (Euschistus servus) and Brown Marmorated (Halyomorpha halys)

The brown stink bug is a native pest that feeds on blossoms, buds, and fruit on a wide range of vegetables, fruits, and weeds. Adults are plain brown or grayish-yellow, 11-15 mm long, and the shield-like shape typical of stink bugs is rounded at the ‘shoulders’. Adults overwinter among plant debris and in weeds, and persist for 2 or more months in summer. Eggs are yellowish-white and laid in clusters of about 20. Nymphs are light colored, yellowish-brown above and white to yellow underneath. There are 2 generations per year. Both adults and nymphs cause damage to tomato fruit, causing white star-like patches on the fruit skin with shallow injury to the flesh below the skin. Bugs migrate into fields from weedy borders, woods, or brambles. Damage is worse in dry seasons and is often limited to the edge of the field; border treatments are often adequate to manage this pest. High tunnel tomatoes may be affected. High weed pressure, reduced-tillage, and increased use of cover crops may increase damage by providing hiding places within fields. Natural enemies in the field usually contain outbreaks if they are not disrupted by broad-spectrum insecticides. It is difficult to monitor by direct observation in tomato as it is reclusive, well-camouflaged, and inconspicuous. Shake plants over sheet or tray to check for presence of bugs.

The brown marmorated stink bug (BMSB) was first documented in the US in PA in 2001 and since then has become a serious pest of fruit, vegetables, and field crops in the mid-Atlantic region and a sporadic pest in the Hudson Valley region and southern New England. Its range is expanding northward into New England. Adults have a shield-shaped body (a trait of most stink bugs), are about 3/4" (14 to 17 mm) long, 3/8" (8 mm) wide, and mottled or marbled grey-brown in color. The underside is white, sometimes with grey or black markings, and the legs are brown with faint white banding. One way to distinguish a BMSB from other stink bug species commonly found in New England is by the alternating dark and light bands on the insect's last 2 antennae segments. The name stink bug refers to the scent glands located on the dorsal surface of the abdomen and the underside of the thorax. BMSB is also commonly confused with the western conifer seed bug; both invade homes in the fall to overwinter.

BMSB eggs are elliptical (1.6 x 1.3 mm), light yellow to yellow-red with minute spines forming fine lines. They are attached, side-by-side, to the underside of leaves in masses of 20-30 eggs. There are 5 nymphal instars (immature stages). Nymphs have deep red eyes, yellowish red abdomen in the first instar progressing to off-white with reddish spots in the fifth instar. The legs, head and thorax of nymphs are black. Adults overwinter and emerge late April to mid-May, to mate and deposit eggs from May through August. They migrate into cropped areas from outside. There is likely 1 generation per year in New England, but research is indicating that 2 generations are occurring in mid-Atlantic states.

Fruits have been the most severely attacked (including apples, peaches, figs, mulberries, citrus fruits, and persimmons). Other hosts include many ornamental plants, weeds, and soybeans. Vegetable crops damaged by BMSB include sweet corn, tomatoes, lima beans, and green peppers. Feeding damage to fruits and vegetables includes scarring, cat-facing, spotting, and internal damage which reduce marketability.

Research on monitoring, thresholds and control methods is ongoing. Look for adults, eggs and nymphs and for damage. Insecticides labeled for stink bugs (without species indicated) may be used for BMSB; a few products have expanded labels to include BMSB specifically.

IRAC Group 1:

methomyl (Lannate* LV): 1.5 to 3 pt/A; PHI 1d, REI 48h, Bee: H, Group 1A. For brown marmorated stink bug.
oxamyl (Vydate* L): 1.5 to 4 pt/A foliar; PHI 3d, REI 48h, Bee: H, Group 1A. Apply by ground or air when insects reach threshold. For brown marmorated stink bug only.

IRAC Group 3:

beta-cyfluthrin (Baythroid* XL): 1.6 to 2.8 oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: H.
bifenthrin (Brigade* 2EC): 2.1 to 5.2 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H.
deltamethrin (Delta Gold*): 1.5 to 2.4 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H.
fenpropathrin (Danitol* 2.4EC): 10.66 oz/A; PHI 3d, REI 24h, Bee: H. May be combined with Belay for control of brown stink bug (see label for rates and increased PHI).
gamma-cyhalothrin (Declare*): 1.02 to 1.54 oz/A; PHI 5d, REI 48h, Bee: H.
lambda-cyhalothrin (Warrior* II): 1.28 to 1.92 oz/A; PHI 5d, REI 24h, Bee: H.
pyrethrin (PyGanic EC5.0^OG): 4.5 to 15.61 oz/A, or 0.25 to 0.50 oz/gal and 3 gal/1000 sq ft in greenhouse for backpack sprayers; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: M.
zeta-cypermethrin (Mustang* Maxx): 2.24 to 4 oz/A green stink bug, 3.2 to 4 oz/A brown stink bug; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H.

IRAC Group 4:

dinotefuran (Venom): 1 to 4 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 4A. Foliar applications only. Do not apply to vegetables grown for seed. For brown, consperse, green, and Southern green stink bugs only.
thiamethoxam (Actara): 3 to 5.5 oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 4A.

IRAC Group 15:

novaluron (Rimon 0.83EC): 12 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: L. Most effective on early nymphs.

Tomato and Tobacco Hornworms (Manduca quinquemaculata and M. sexta) and other caterpillars

Tomato and tobacco hornworms (THW) are large green caterpillars with white stripes along the sides that may grow up to 4" long. Despite their size and striking appearance, they can be very difficult to find on the plant. It is easier to look for the large fecal droppings on the plastic mulch under the plants. Scouting is easiest at dawn and dusk or at night using a UV flashlight to spot the caterpillars which flouresce under ultraviolet light. The caterpillars climb to feed near the tops of the plants just before dusk, and spritzing with water will make them flinch so that they are easy to find and remove. The insect spends the winter as a pupa 2-4" under the soil. Caterpillar infestations usually begin in July and may extend through September. Track activity of the sphinx moth, and you will usually see egg laying or larvae 3-5 days later. When numerous, they can nearly defoliate tomato plants and may even surface feed on the immature green fruit. Fall or early spring plowing will reduce the survival of the pupae. Hornworms only occasionally require treatment and can be controlled by their natural enemies (braconid wasp, bugs, and pathogens). Caterpillars covered with numerous white wasp pupae should be moved to a plant that will not be sprayed to help preserve and build up parasite populations. Spot–treat areas of the field with severe defoliation. It is recommended to use insect growth regulators, microbial products (Bt) or other selective insecticides (e.g., chlorantraniliprole, emamectin benzoate, indoxacarb, or methoxyfenozide) to preserve natural enemies and avoid secondary pest outbreaks (i.e. aphids).

Tomato fruitworm (TFW) is another name for the corn earworm (Helicoverpa zea), which may attack tomatoes and other solanaceous crops late in the season, especially if moth numbers are high and fresh corn silk is relatively scarce. Use selective insecticides to avoid disrupting natural enemies that control secondary pests, such as mites and aphids. See the Sweet Corn insect control section for more information about tomato fruitworm/corn earworm. Cabbage looper (CL) is an occasional pest of tomato; see the Cabbage, Broccoli, Cauliflower, and Other Brassica Crops insect control section for more information. Make sure that tomato is listed on the label.

IRAC Group 1:

malathion (Malathion 57EC): 1 to 2.5 pt/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 1B. Armyworm and TFW only.
methomyl (Lannate* LV): 1.5 to 3 pt/A; PHI 1d, REI 48h, Bee: H, Group 1A.

IRAC Group 3:

alpha-cypermethrin (Fastac* CS): 2.2 to 3.8 oz/A TFW and hornworm; 3.2 to 3.8 oz/A looper; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H.
beta-cyfluthrin (Baythroid*XL): 1.6 to 2.8 oz/A TFW and hornworm, 2.1 to 2.8 oz/A cabbage looper and others; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: H.
bifenthrin (Brigade* 2EC): 2.1 to 5.2 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H. Not for hornworms.
deltamethrin (Delta Gold*): 1 to 2.4 oz/A cabbage looper and hornworm, 1.5 to 2.4 oz/A TFW and others; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H.
esfenvalerate (Asana* XL): 2.9 to 5.8 oz/A hornworm, 5.8 to 9.6 oz/A other caterpillars; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H.
fenpropathrin (Danitol* 2.4EC): 10.66 oz/A hornworms; PHI 3d, REI 24h, Bee: H. May be combined with Dipel DF for control of other caterpillars (see label for rates).
gamma-cyhalothrin (Declare*): 0.77 to 1.28 oz/A cabbage looper and hornworm, 1.02 to 1.54 oz/A TFW and armyworms; PHI 5d, REI 48h, Bee: H.
lambda-cyhalothrin (Warrior* II): 0.96 to 1.6 oz/A cabbage looper and hornworm, 1.28 to 1.92 oz/A TFW and others; PHI 5d, REI 24h, Bee: H.
permethrin (Pounce* 25WP): 3.2 to 12.8 oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: H. Do not apply to varieties which produce fruit less than 1" in diameter, such as cherry and grape tomatoes.
pyrethrin (PyGanic EC5.0^OG): 4.5 to 15.61 oz/A, or 0.25 to 0.50 oz/gal and 3 gal/1000 sq ft in greenhouse for backpack sprayers; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: M.
zeta-cypermethrin (Mustang* Maxx): 2.24 to 4 oz/A TFW, hornworms, and others; 3.2 to 4 oz/A fall and beet armyworm, cabbage looper; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H.

IRAC Group 5:

spinetoram (Radiant SC): 5 to 10 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 4h, Bee: M.
spinosad (Entrust SC^OG): 3 to 6 oz/A hornworms, 4 to 8 oz/A armyworms, 1.5 to 3 oz/A maintenance; PHI 1d, REI 4h, Bee: M. Do not apply to seedlings for transplant.

IRAC Group 6:

emamectin benzoate (Proclaim*): 2.4 to 4.8 oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Bee: H. Apply when larvae are first observed.

IRAC Group 11:

Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. aizawai (XenTari^OG): 0.5 to 1.5 lb/A all caterpillars except 0.5 to 2 lb/A armyworms; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: L. Must be ingested. For resistance management, may be rotated with Bt kurstaki products (Dipel).
Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. kurstaki (Dipel DF^OG): 0.5 to 2 lb/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: L. Must be ingested. For resistance management, may be rotated with Bt aizawai products (XenTari).

IRAC Group 15:

novaluron (Rimon 0.83EC): 9 to 12 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: L. Most effective on 1st and 2nd instars.

IRAC Group 18:

methoxyfenozide (Intrepid 2F): 4 to 8 oz/A early season on young plants, 8 to 16 oz/A mid- to late-season, 10 to 16 oz/A fruitworm; PHI 1d, REI 4h, Bee: L. Suppression only for TFW.
tebufenozide (Confirm 2F): 6 to 8 oz/A early season on young plants, 8 to 16 oz/A mid- to late-season; PHI 7d, REI 4h, Bee: L.

IRAC Group 22:

indoxacarb (Avaunt): 2.5 to 3.5 oz/A; PHI 3d, REI 12h, Bee: H. Use high rate for TFW and other caterpillars.

IRAC Group 28:

chlorantraniliprole (Coragen): 3.5 to 7.5 oz/A, 2 to 5 oz/A foliar hornworms; PHI 1d, REI 4h, Bee: L. May be applied to soil at planting, through drip irrigation or as a foliar spray. Not for hornworm control at planting.
cyantraniliprole (Exirel): 10 to 17 oz/A loopers, 7 to 13.5 oz/A TFW, hornworm, and others; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H.
cyantraniliprole (Verimark): 5 to 10 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 4h, Bee: H. For soil applications at planting, drip chemigation, or soil injection. Chemigation and soil injection only for hornworm control.

IRAC Group 30:

isocycloseram (Incipio): 5.1 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H. Do not treat plants grown for transplanting. Not for use in greenhouses. TFW only.

IRAC Group UN:

Burkholderia spp. strain A396 (Venerate XC^OG): 1 to 4 qt/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: M.
Chromobacterium subtsugae strain PRAA4-1 (Grandevo^OG): 1 to 3 lb/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: M.

Tomato Russet Mite (Aculops lycopersici)

Surface feeding on stems produces a russeted or bronzed appearance, beginning at the soil line, which later moves up to leaves and fruit. Sulfur and other miticides are effective.

IRAC Group 1:

malathion (Malathion 57EC): 1 to 2.5 pt/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 1B.

IRAC Group 6:

abamectin (Agri-Mek* SC): 1.75 to 3.5 oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Bee: H.

IRAC Group 8:

sodium tetraborohydrate decahydrate (Prev-AM): 50 oz/100 gal; REI 24h, Bee: L, Group 8D. Do not apply in midday sun or mix with copper.

IRAC Group 23:

spirotetramat (Movento): 4 to 5 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 24h, Bee: M. Must be tank-mixed with a spray adjuvant with spreading and penetrating properties to maximize leaf uptake and systemicity. Don't use sticker adjuvants. Controls immature stages. Do not use in greenhouses or high tunnels.

IRAC Group UN:

insecticidal soap (M-Pede^OG): 1.25 to 2.5 oz/gal water; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: L. Use of a companion labeled insecticide/miticide is recommended for enhanced and residual control. Do not mix with sulfur.
Metarhizium anisopliae Strain F52 (Met 52 EC): 40 to 80 oz/100 gal drench, 8 to 64 oz/A foliar; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: L.
mineral oil (SuffOil-X^OG): 1 to 2 gal/100 gal water; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: L. Apply as needed.
neem oil (Trilogy^OG): 0.5 to 2% solution in 25 to 100 gal water/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: M.
sulfur (Microthiol Disperss^OG): 10 to 20 lb/A; REI 24h, Bee: L. Begin application when symptoms first appear. Thorough coverage is required.

Two-spotted Spider Mite (Tetranychus urticae)

See the Eggplant insect control section for information on two-spotted spider mite.

IRAC Group 3:

bifenthrin (Brigade* 2EC): 5.12 to 6.4 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H.
fenpropathrin (Danitol* 2.4EC): 10.66 oz/A; PHI 3d, REI 24h, Bee: H. Treat when mite populations are just beginning to build, less than 5 motiles per leaf.
gamma-cyhalothrin (Declare*): 1.02 to 1.54 oz/A; PHI 5d, REI 48h, Bee: H. Suppression only.

IRAC Group 6:

abamectin (Agri-Mek* SC): 1.75 to 3.5 oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Bee: H.

IRAC Group 8:

sodium tetraborohydrate decahydrate (Prev-AM): 50 oz/100 gal; REI 24h, Bee: L, Group 8D. Do not apply in midday sun or mix with copper.

IRAC Group 20:

acequinocyl (Kanemite 15SC): 31 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: L, Group 20B.
bifenazate (Acramite 50WS): 0.75 to 1 lb/A; PHI 3d, REI 12h, Bee: L, Group 20D. Long residual.

IRAC Group 21:

fenpyroximate (Portal XLO): 2 pt/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: L.

IRAC Group 23:

spiromesifen (Oberon 2SC): 8.5 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: M.

IRAC Group UN:

insecticidal soap (M-Pede^OG): 1.25 to 2.5 oz/gal water; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: L. Use of a companion labeled insecticide/miticide is recommended for enhanced and residual control. Do not mix with sulfur.
Metarhizium anisopliae Strain F52 (Met 52 EC): 40 to 80 oz/100 gal drench, 8 to 64 oz/A foliar; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: L.
mineral oil (SuffOil-X^OG): 1 to 2 gal/100 gal water; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: L. Apply as needed.
neem oil (Trilogy^OG): 0.5 to 2% solution in 25 to 100 gal water/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: M.
soybean oil (Golden Pest Spray Oil^OG): 2 gal/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: L. Low volume application. Apply once a week beginning when mites first appear. Decrease frequency as pest is controlled.
sulfur (Microthiol Disperss^OG): 3 to 10 lb/A; REI 24h, Bee: L. Begin application when symptoms first appear. Thorough coverage is required.

Whitefly, Greenhouse (Trialeurodes vaporariorum) and Sweet Potato (Bemisia tabaci)

Whiteflies found in the outdoor vegetable crops in New England are most commonly greenhouse whitefly (Trialeurodes vaporariorum) or, less commonly, sweet potato whitefly B-biotype (Bemisia tabaci). See the Greenhouse and High Tunnel Tomato insect control section for more information on biology and management of whiteflies. Whitefly outbreaks in field tomatoes and other field crops are not common in New England. Both species winter-kill but may be introduced on infested transplants that are moved from the greenhouse to the field. Manage populations in the greenhouse using biological controls or insecticides (see Insect and Mite Management in the Vegetable Transplant section for more on managing whitefly on transplants in the greenhouse). Natural enemies in the field may contain outbreaks if they are not disrupted by broad-spectrum insecticides. Row covers over transplants may protect whiteflies from natural enemies, allowing populations to build. If whitefly populations reach high levels, damage appears as yellowing, spots, leaf drop, plant wilting or stunting, and may result in problems with honeydew and sooty mold or viruses. Most feeding occurs on lower leaf surfaces, so systemic insecticides are often more effective than contact insecticides. Practice resistance management by alternating between insecticide groups to preserve the effective life of products.

IRAC Group 1:

oxamyl (Vydate* L): 2 to 4 pt/A; PHI 3d, REI 48h, Bee: H, Group 1A. Apply by ground or air when insects first appear. Suppression only.

IRAC Group 3:

alpha-cypermethrin (Fastac* CS): 3.2 to 3.8 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H. See resistance statement on label. Aids in control.
beta-cyfluthrin (Baythroid* XL): 2.8 oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: H. Suppression of adult whiteflies only.
bifenthrin (Brigade* 2EC): 2.1 to 5.2 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H.
deltamethrin (Delta Gold*): 1.5 to 2.4 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H. Suppression only.
esfenvalerate (Asana* XL): 5.8 to 9.6 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H.
gamma-cyhalothrin (Declare*): 1.02 to 1.54 oz/A; PHI 5d, REI 48h, Bee: H. See resistance statement on label. Suppression only.
pyrethrin (PyGanic EC5.0^OG): 4.5 to 15.61 oz/A, or 0.25 to 0.50 oz/gal and 3 gal/1000 sq ft in greenhouse for backpack sprayers; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: M.
zeta-cypermethrin (Mustang* Maxx): 3.2 to 4 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H. See resistance statement on label. Aids in control.

IRAC Group 4:

acetamiprid (Assail 30SG): 2.5 to 4 oz/A; PHI 7d, REI 12h, Bee: M, Group 4A.
dinotefuran (Safari 20SG): 3.5 to 7 oz/100 gal, 7 to 14 oz/A foliar, 0.16 to 0.32 oz/1000 sq ft; REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 4A. For transplants while in greenhouse. Not for field use.
dinotefuran (Venom): 1 to 4 oz/A foliar, 5 to 7.5 oz/A soil; PHI 1d foliar, 21d soil, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 4A. Do not apply to vegetables grown for seed.
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.
imidacloprid (Admire Pro): 1.3 to 2.2 oz/A foliar, 7 to 10.5 oz/A soil, 0.44 oz/10,000 plants on seedling transplants in greenhouse (tray drench); PHI 0d foliar, 21d soil, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 4A.
sulfoxaflor (Closer SC): 4.25 to 4.5 oz/A.; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 4C. Do not use in greenhouses or high tunnels.
thiamethoxam (Actara): 3 to 5.5 oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 4A.
thiamethoxam (Platinum 75SG): 1.66 to 3.67 oz/A; PHI 30d, REI 12h, Bee: H, Group 4A. Systemic insecticide used at planting.

IRAC Group 7:

pyriproxyfen (Knack): 8 to 10 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: L, Group 7C. Apply when threshold levels are reached. Higher water volumes provide improved control.

IRAC Group 8:

sodium tetraborohydrate decahydrate (Prev-AM): 50 oz/100 gal; REI 24h, Bee: L, Group 8D. Do not apply in midday sun or mix with copper.

IRAC Group 9:

afidopyropen (Sefina): 14 oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: L, Group 9D.
pymetrozine (Fulfill): 2.75 oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: L, Group 9B. Translaminar. Suppression only.

IRAC Group 21:

fenpyroximate (Portal XLO): 2 pt/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: L.

IRAC Group 23:

spiromesifen (Oberon 2SC): 8.5 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: M. Effective against egg and immature stages.
spirotetramat (Movento): 4 to 5 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 24h, Bee: M. Must be tank-mixed with a spray adjuvant with spreading and penetrating properties to maximize leaf uptake and systemicity. Don't use sticker adjuvants. Controls immature stages, may also reduce adult fertility. Do not use in greenhouses or high tunnels.

IRAC Group 28:

cyantraniliprole (Exirel): 13.5 to 20.5 oz/A; PHI 1d, REI 12h, Bee: H. For best performance, use with an effective adjuvant.
cyantraniliprole (Verimark): 6.75 to 13.5 oz/A at planting, 6.75 to 10 oz/A chemigation/soil injection; PHI 1d, REI 4h, Bee: H. Allow 1-3 days for control to be translocated into the aerial portions and to fully protect transplants following an at-plant application. Allow 2-5 days for control following a drip application.

IRAC Group 29:

flonicamid (Beleaf 50SG): 2.8 to 4.28 oz/A; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: L. Suppression of greenhouse whitefly only.

IRAC Group UN:

Chenopodium extract (Requiem EC): 2 to 3 qt/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: L. Apply before pests reach damaging levels. For silverleaf whitefly.
Chromobacterium subtsugae strain PRAA4-1 (Grandevo^OG): 2 to 3 lb/A; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: M.
insecticidal soap (M-Pede^OG): 1.25 to 2.5 oz/gal water; PHI 0d, REI 12h, Bee: L. For enhanced and residual control, apply with a companion labeled insecticide. Do not mix with sulfur.
Metarhizium anisopliae Strain F52 (Met 52 EC): 40 to 80 oz/100 gal drench, 8 to 64 oz/A foliar; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: L.
mineral oil (SuffOil-X^OG): 1 to 2 gal/100 gal water; PHI 0d, REI 4h, Bee: L. Apply as needed.