Managing western tarnished plant bug (Lygus hesperus) in a regional context

摘要

The increasing portion of cotton production costs dedicated to insecticides is forcing a re-evaluation of managing Lygus hesperus in cotton in the San Joaquin Valley through mitigation of insect movement. The idea of managing crops around cotton to prevent the movement of insects into cotton is becoming more acceptable. The management of alfalfa hay is key to limiting the movement of Lygus into cotton and was suggested as a cultural management tool over 30 years ago. Using on-farm demonstrations, we confirmed the validity of this approach. We were able to limit the migration from alfalfa into cotton by two approaches. First, alfalfa harvests were staggered between fields to provide sufficient amount of suitable habitat. Second, uncut strips were left in harvested fields to maintain habitat during the harvest period.