Application and Timing of Insecticides for Aphid Management in Head Lettuce

The timing and application methods of new insecticide chemistries for aphid control were compared to imidacloprid in several studies in 1998 and 1999. Foliar applications of Fulllfill, Aphistar, Actara and Acetamiprid appear to provide an alternative method of controlling aphids on lettuce comparable to prophylactic applications of Admire. Timing applications as aphids began to colonize was critical for preventing head contamination at harvest. In addition, at planting and side dress soil applications of Platinum provided aphid control comparable to Admire. Residual activity of the new foliar alternatives appeared to differ depending on spray timing relative to aphid density and plant stage. These studies suggest that more than one application of the foliar products will be necessary to adequately suppress aphid contamination in heads. Evaluations of thiamethoxam suggest that it is more mobile in the soil than Admire and may be a candidate for side dress applications for aphid management.