A future without organophosphorus insecticides – yet plenty of cabbage maggots in Brassica crops! (2010)

Report to the Oregon Processed Vegetable Commission

Amy Dreves
OSU Dept. of Crop and Soil Science

Robert McReynolds
NWREC

Dan McGrath
OSU Dept. of Hort

Ed Peachey
OSU Dept. of Hort

Objectives:

  1. Evaluate efficacy and persistence of non-OP seed, infurrow, and foliar treatments for control of CRF (See attached report for efficacy results)
  2. Test the CRF degree-day model describing high risk periods to avoid high risk planting dates and optimal harvest dates; and synchronize insecticides to high populations of CRF
  3. Determine the relationship between egg counts and CRF injury in transplanted cauliflower in order to adjust the timing of insecticide applications to optimize insecticide efficacy

Introduction:

The cabbage root fly (Delia radicum (L.); Diptera: Anthomyiidae; CRF)) is a universal pest problem. The impact of CRF is widespread throughout the Pacific Northwest and many other Brassica growing regions around the US and world (midwest, south, and northeast mainland US; Canada and European countries). Brassica production in western Oregon is reliant on the use of chlorpyrifos (organophosphate; Lorsban®) as the singular method of control for cabbage root fly (Delia radicum (L.); Diptera: Anthomyiidae; CRF)). The potential for losing this product is immediate. The threat of crop failure, resistance, lack of treatment efficacy, and loss of livelihood has increased grower willingness to test and adopt new management strategies for an old pest.

Attachment: 

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