A Practical Approach for Managing Lepidopterous Larvae with in Head Lettuce

During the past 5 years, the efficacy and field performance of several new insecticides for control of Lepidopterous insects on desert lettuce crops has been investigated in small plot trials at the Yuma Agricultural Center and in produce fields with commercial cooperators. The objective has been to determine how these new chemistries will fit into pest management programs in Arizona. Thus, research programs have been focused on studies to define use patterns for these insecticides chemicals that can be integrated into our local management programs in the most cost-effective way possible. This report was created to provide an overview of the new chemistries being developed, their field activity and characteristics, and guidelines for use in head lettuce. In addition, an approach for sustaining the long-term efficacy of these products is discussed