Sugarcane Aphid Update: 7/3/2015

We are now beginning to get numerous calls from around the state about sugarcane aphid infestations. Populations range from very low to well above threshold with treatments becoming more common this week. At this time aphids are being found in the Hills and Delta region widely at some level in most fields. However, there are the occasional fields with very low to no aphids at this time. Calls have become numerous enough that we are no longer mapping positive finds but still appreciate the calls so we can let others know the proximity to their fields when asked.

I have had reports of midge applications flaring aphids requiring sprays within 5-7 days of the application. Although most of our early planted sorghum generally misses midge infestations, there are midge present in many fields now so scout closely. Although we constantly talk about the potential to flare aphids with midge applications, don’t let midge get by you if they are present at threshold (1 midge/head) for the sake of flaring aphids. Midge can be extremely damaging. If you flare aphids on a justified midge spray, we can deal with that problem when or if it comes up. Also, it is not necessary to add an aphid material in with a midge spray for the sake of not flaring aphids if aphid numbers are extremely low.

The reports I have gotten so for this year on field performance of Transform and Sivanto have been good. Remember to use a minimum of 5 GPA by air and 15-20 by ground. It is important to try and get the materials down low in the canopy to control those aphids on the bottom leaves. Often the level of control in the lower canopy will determine the time until the next application.