Professor of Entomology Cornell University Geneva, New York
The U.S. potato industry faces a critical challenge as neonicotinoid insecticides, commonly used for pest management, are under increasing scrutiny from regulators and retailers due to their undesirable profile for bees. In New York, major insect pests include the Colorado potato beetle (CPB), potato leafhopper (PLH), and aphids, which can have significant impacts on potato yields if not managed properly. Locally, the standard insecticide rotation includes applications of the neonicotinoid thiamethoxam at-plant followed by foliar applications on a non-neonicotinoid insecticide for the management of 1st and 2nd generations of CPB, respectively. Additionally, foliar applications of either neonicotinoid or non-neonicotinoid insecticides may be used to control PLH and aphids. To provide suitable alternatives to replace neonicotinoids, the following insecticide rotations will be tested for management of CPB 1st and 2nd generations: 1) cyantraniliprole at-plant followed by foliar applied spinetoram; 2) foliar applications of isocycloseram followed by foliar applications of spinetoram; and 3) foliar applications of ledprona and followed by foliar applications of chlorantraniliprole. For all three alternative programs, flupyradifurone and flonicamid may be used for PLH and aphid control, respectively. These alternative rotations will be compared with the standard thiamethoxam-based program and with an untreated control. This study was conducted at two locations in central New York and evaluations included potato pest densities, CPB defoliation levels, beneficial insect populations, and marketable tuber yields. Results will provide essential information to support the shift from neonicotinoids to more sustainable pest management practices, ensuring continued high yields while minimizing environmental and economic risks.
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