Consider Soil Insecticides at Planting
Apr 17, 2012
Farmers aren’t the only ones who enjoy mild winters. Insects like them, too, and corn growers may see more of them based on the temperate winter and higher-than-average temperatures to date this spring.
Western corn rootworm in particular is top-of-mind this year. University Extension researchers confirmed resistance to the Cry3Bb1 gene in some Midwest corn rootworm populations in 2011.
Farmers concerned about how well their trait package will withstand corn rootworm pressure this season might consider using a soil insecticide as they head to fields now to plant.
Insecticides that are labeled for 2012 corn rootworm control at planting are detailed in the following chart, courtesy of the University of Wisconsin cooperative Extension.
In addition, University of Wisconsin Extension advises farmers to be sure to avoid using the same insecticide for several consecutive years as that may increase the potential for insect resistance and decrease product efficacy.
Soil insecticides labeled for rootworm control at planting in 2012.
Source: University of Wisconsin Cooperative Extension. 2012. Pest Management in Wisconsin Field Crops, A3646.
