By Scout Nelson
The 2024 sprinkler corn competition highlighted the limited economic impact of insecticide treatments targeting western bean cutworm, a significant moth and caterpillar pest. Participants were given the choice to apply insecticides based on scouting data and expert resources.
Scouting by researchers on July 12, 15, and 19 revealed that only 4% of corn plants were infested with eggs or larvae. Competitors made quick decisions on whether to apply insecticides, with three options available: Brigade, Vantacor, and Elevest.
Insecticide application was carried out on July 25 by a high clearance sprayer equipped with a 10-foot boom. Within treated plots, the final 28 feet were left unsprayed as controls. The majority (71.1%) of competitors opted not to treat, while 23.7% used Brigade, and 2.6% each selected Vantacor and Elevest.
On August 22, the entomology team assessed feeding injury by examining 10 corn ears from both treated and untreated portions of each plot. The damage prevented by insecticides was calculated by comparing sprayed and unsprayed sections. Results showed minor differences in feeding damage, suggesting limited economic benefits from insecticide use in this scenario.
The findings underline the importance of scouting and informed decision-making in pest management to optimize resources and minimize unnecessary pesticide applications in crop production.
Photo Credit:gettyimages-dszc
Categories: Nebraska, Crops, Corn, General