Planting Date Influences Thrips Infestations and Management Programs in Georgia Cotton

Field trials were conducted in 2015 and 2016 to evaluate the influence of planting date on thrips infestations in cotton.  A split split plot with four replications was utilized.  Main plots included planting date (9 dates beginning in mid-April and continuing weekly until mid-June).  Split plots included at plant insecticide (Gaucho vs untreated).  Split split plots included foliar Orthene vs untreated.  Thrips infestations were sample 2 times each week until seedlings reached the 4-leaf stage and various plant growth measures including yield were assessed.