New Options for Managing Thrips in the Upper Southeast

Management of the thrips in the upper Southeast, with both high thrips levels and often unsuitable weather for early seedling growth, remains this region's most challenging insect complex. Recent field trials in North Carolina and Virginia demonstrated that several new alternatives may provide season-long thrips control. These alternatives include liquid and granular in-furrow treatments, high seed treatment rates, and new foliar treatment options.  Selected products, application techniques, and the impact of adjuvants on thrips levels were evaluated. Trials included both small plot tests and large replicated strip trials on growers’ farms. Data taken to evaluate the efficacy and utility of each option included plant injury ratings, thrips counts and lint yields.