Questions with Gil Del Rosario

Insect flare-ups are still happening this time of year. What insect pressures are there currently and what pressures are still growing?

Some key infestations, such as whiteflies and thrips, are happening in November, December and January in certain areas of the United States. In Florida, Thrips parvispinus, or pepper thrips, is a damaging species. Originally detected in 2020, this invasive species has been found in greenhouses, nurseries and retail stores and has begun to harm a wide range of plants, including those in residential landscapes. As sap-sucking insects, thrips can restrict plant growth, cause damage and make the plant unsellable. Plus, thrips can transmit viruses that kill the host plants.

XXpire® and Conserve® SC insecticides from Corteva Agriscience Turf & Ornamental have been found to effectively control this thrips species.

As a grower, what should I consider regarding insect management?

Growers looking to increase the effectiveness of their insect management should consider implementing an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) program approach before the new season hits.

A program approach of insecticides that includes different modes of action effective on the target pest enables growers to treat infestations and reduce the risk of insecticide resistance. By planning and purchasing the appropriate products now, growers will have the tools and strategy without delay to face urgent infestations during the busier times of the year.

When planning an insecticide program, what are some tips to help avoid resistance?

Avoiding resistance should be the goal of every insecticide program. Developing an insecticide rotation that uses IRAC numbers to plan different modes of action can help minimize resistance risk.

It is imperative to frequently scout and monitor with sticky traps to identify pests and population pressure. Plan to target the most susceptible growth stages of an insect and follow labeled application rates and spray intervals to ensure optimal efficacy. This reduces the potential of individual insects surviving and developing resistance.

In outdoor settings, weed management in the perimeter areas is good practice, because insects may inhabit perimeter weeds and move in after treatment. Controlling perimeter pest pressures also can help reduce the potential for resistance.

Why is XXpire® insecticide an effective option for insecticide programs?

XXpire® insecticide fits well into a rotation because it combines two active ingredients — sulfoxaflor and spinetoram — to control more than 39 insects, including seven of the top 10 chewing and sap-feeding insects. With two modes of action, XXpire reduces the likelihood of resistance as well as controlling a broad range of insect pests.

XXpire has shown no signs of phytotoxic risk to more than 300 plants and can be used as the final treatment before shipping because it doesn’t leave a residue.

Visit corteva.us/asktheexpert to learn more.

™ ® Trademarks of Corteva Agriscience and its affiliated companies. XXpire® is not registered for sale or use in all states. Contact your state pesticide regulatory agency to determine if a product is registered for sale or use in your state. Always read and follow label directions. © 2023 Corteva.