Chlorpyrifos Alternative for Lesser Peach Tree Borer Control in Peach Orchards
Applied Research
Sarah Scott
Horticulture Agent
Clemson Extension Service
Edgefield
Abstract
South Carolina is the number 2 producer of peaches in the United States behind California. The 5 yr average value of peach production in SC is $92,234,800, according to reports from NASS. One of the top insect pests in commercial peach production is the lesser peach tree borer. For years, the industry standard for chemical control of lesser peach tree borer has been the use of Chlorpyrifos. In recent years the EPA has made changes to regulations and restrictions on this product which has affected the availability and use of the chemical control for growers. In addition to regulatory changes, when there is continued use of a single chemical control there is concern for resistance build up in crops. Alternative control options such as mating disruption are now available for commercial use but have not been widely used in South Carolina therefore there is little research on efficacy. The main objective of this project was to determine the efficacy of chlorpyrifos alternatives for the control of lesser peach tree borer (LPTB) in commercial peach orchards in South Carolina. Mating disruption ties were applied throughout 19 peach tree blocks, totaling 275 acres, in place of conventional chemical treatment of chlorpyrifos for control of peach tree borer at a rate of 1 per tree during the 2023 and 2024 peach season in SC. Traps were monitored weekly from April-September and LPTB counts were recorded from organic control orchards, orchards treated using conventional applications of chlorpyrifos and those treated with mating disruption ties. Data from both seasons show there is no significant difference in LPTB present in conventionally treated orchards compared to those treated using the Isomate mating disruption ties. Based on this information we can assume that mating disruption in a viable option for a chlorpyrifos alternative for control of LPTB in commercial peach orchards in SC. Additional trial work will be performed to further support these findings.
Poster has NOT been presented at any previous NACAA AM/PIC
This poster is being submitted for judging. It will be displayed at the AM/PIC if not selected as a State winner. The abstract will be published in the proceedings.
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Authors: Sarah Scott
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Scott, S. Horticulture Agent, Clemson Cooperative Extension, South Carolina, 29824