Integration of Biological and Chemical Control Tactics for Apple Pests Through Selective Timing and Choice of Synthetic Pyrethroid Insecticides1

Abstract

A two-part study was conducted to assess the potential use of synthetic pyrethroid (SP) insecticides in an integrated pest management (IPM) program for apple orchards. The first test evaluated the effects of application timing of fenvalerate (112 g [AI]/ha) on the control of the tufted apple budmoth (TABM), Platynota idaeusalis (Walker), and the impact of these applications on the predator-prey interaction between Stethorus punctum (LeConte) and the European red mite (ERM), Panonychus ulmi (Koch). Two to three applications of fenvalerate were effective for TABM control, but these applications decimated S. punctum populations and resulted in higher ERM populations. The second test evaluated the differential activity of six Sp’s for pest control and predator-prey disruption. All Sp’s controlled TABM and various other apple pests as well as or better than did the standard organophosphorus insecticide azinphosmethyl. Only the SP permethrin allowed substantial survival of S. punctum when applied for control of TABM Broods I and II.