Spinach XXIX-2

Defoliating Caterpillars

Whitney S. Cranshaw

Looper

 

Identification (and life cycle/seasonal history)

Several species of caterpillars can feed on lettuce. Adult moths emerge and mate in late spring, soon after laying eggs on plant leaves.

Management approaches

Cultural Controls

Row covers are effective in excluding loopers and preventing egg laying

Biological Control

Loopers are preyed upon by several generalist predators, such as wasps and spider. Parasites and viral diseases also commonly kill loopers. Bacillus thuringiensis is effective in killing larval stages.

Chemical control

Insecticides should be employed to prevent excessive defoliation.

 

Product List for Defoliating Caterpillars:

Insecticide

Product per Acre

Preharvest Interval, remarks

Dipel 2X1, Biobit W1

Dipel 4L1, Biobit F1

Javelin WG1

0.5-2.0 lb

0.5-2 pt

0.25-0.5 lb

(0 days) Bacillus thuringiensis product. Most formulations are acceptable under current regulations for Certified Organic produce.

Pyrenone

2-6 fl oz

(0 days) Botanical insecticide (pyrethrins) with fast action and irritant activity but very short residual.

Ambush 25WR, Pounce 25WR

Ambush 2ER

Pounce 3.2ER

6.4-12.8 oz

6-12.8 fl oz

4-8 fl oz

(1 day) Restricted Use. Pyrethroid  insecticides (permethrin).  Extremely toxic to aquatic organisms.

Lannate 90SR

Lannate LR

0.5-1 lb

2-4 p1

(7 days) Do not apply when minimum daily temperatures are below freezing. Do not apply to seedlings. Carbamate insecticide (methomy). 48 hour reentry interval proposed. Not registered for chemigation.

 

Ammo WSBR1

Ammo 2.5ECR1

1-2 bags/acre (WSB)

2.5-5.0 fl oz (2.5EC)

1 day.  Pyrethroid insecticide.  Maximum 0.4 lb

(AI)/acre per season, applications at least 7 days apart.

Larvin 3.21

16-30 fl oz

14 days.  Carbamate insecticide.  Do not exceed 1.5 lb (AI)/acre per season.  Has some ovicidal activity.

RRestricted Use Product. 1Labeled for chemigation
The information herein is supplied with the understanding that no discrimination is intended and that listing of commercial products, necessary to this guide, implies no endorsement by the authors or the Extension Services of Nebraska, Colorado, Wyoming or Montana. Criticism of products or equipment not listed is neither implied nor intended. Due to constantly changing labels, laws and regulations, the Extension Services can assume no liability for the suggested use of chemicals contained herein. Pesticides must be applied legally complying with all label directions and precautions on the pesticide container and any supplemental labeling and rules of state and federal pesticide regulatory agencies.  State rules and regulations and special pesticide use allowances may vary from state to state: contact your State Department of Agriculture for the rules, regulations and allowances applicable in your state and locality.
 
 

Categories: Caterpillars, Insects, Spinach

Date: 05/05/02