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Malheur County Onion Maggot Control

Onion    Northern Idaho

Onion Maggot

Posted on: April 28, 2020 by Stuart Reitz

Please remember the Malheur County Onion Maggot Control order remains in effect until July 1 mandating the proper disposal or treatment of culls, including volunteers, to protect this season’s onion crop. If you have questions or concerns regarding the Order, please contact Casey Prentiss (see his contact below).

Malheur County Onion Maggot Control Order

The Onion Maggot Control Order 603-052-0360 for Malheur County requires that all cull or waste onions in Malheur County have to be disposed of by a method approved of within this control order prior to March 15th each year. The objective of the control order is to protect the onion industry from the Onion Maggot pest.

Please keep in mind that the cull onion disposal order remains in effect and will be enforced through July 1. All cull or waste onions are required to be disposed of, plowed under and covered by 12 inches of onion-free soil by March 15th at the latest. Additionally, for cull onions produced after the March 15 deadline until July 1 the Control Order permits only a maximum of one week for proper disposal.
Culls include “volunteer” onions growing in last season’s fields, which may be planted to another crop at this time. Because the Control Order remains in effect until July 1, volunteer onions still need to be disposed of or treated properly.

The Onion Maggot Control Order offers several disposal options:

A) Disposal by covering in a dump site approved by the Oregon Department of Environmental
Quality (DEQ). Culls and onion debris shall be dumped and covered by at least 12 inches of onion-free soil by March 15 each year;

(B) Disposal by animal feeding: Culls and onion debris shall be completely removed from feeding areas by March 15 and buried under 12 inches of onion-free soil. Onions tramped into the soil so they cannot be removed shall be plowed to a depth of 12 inches;

(C) Disposal by chopping or shredding: Chopped or shredded onion debris that is incapable of
sprouting may be returned to the field at the DEQ-approved tonnage rate which is no higher than 80 tons per acre and plowed to a depth where no onion parts are exposed on the surface;

(D) Composting: All onion debris shall be incorporated into the compost bed and completely covered by 12 inches of onion-free soil;

(E) Disposal of residue in onion producing fields: Commercial onion fields where sort out bulbs are left at harvest shall be disked to destroy the bulbs and shall be plowed to a depth of at least 12 inches by March 15 each year. Seed bulbs shall be disposed of in the same manner following the last harvest;

(F) Culls may be treated with an EPA-labeled insecticide. David Priebe of the ODA Pesticides Program has provided a list of insecticides that can be sprayed on wheat and/or sugar beet fields for onion maggot control. Please see the link below.

Please contact the Ontario ODA office at 541-889-5274 or Casey Prentiss directly at 541-212-3361 cprentiss@oda.state.or.us

Onion Thrips update 6/28/2019

Onion    Treasure Valley

Onion thrips

Posted on: June 30, 2019 by Stuart Reitz

Below are the results from this past week’s thrips monitoring program. Thrips pressure continues to be strong – as there were increases in adults and immatures in most areas. Please keep in mind that numbers vary from field to field.
This week, we found Iris yellow spot virus in fields in Ontario, Nyssa and Fruitland, with the highest levels around 10% in a couple of fields. Infected plants have been more abundant closer to the edges of fields, which suggests that most transmission at this time is from adults dispersing into fields. That would change later in the season if immature thrips survive on infected plants and then transmit virus to other plants within a field.
As the onions’ canopy develops and leaves start folding over one another, be sure to use sufficient spray volumes and pressure to get insecticides down in the neck of plants. This week some I saw some recently sprayed fields that had dead thrips several inches up on the leaves but still had live ones in the neck at the base of leaves.
The Malheur Experiment Station Annual Farm Fest will be July 10, beginning at 8 AM with drone demonstrations followed by research tours and kids’ activities. ODA Director Alexis Taylor will be our special guest speaker at lunch. She will be there with other ODA representatives, including Susanna Pearlstein, ODA’s Produce Safety Program Manager, and Casey Prentiss. Please call 541-889-2174 to RSVP.



Figure 1. IYSV on leaves 2019-06-28


Adults per Plant
Growing Area 5/15 5/25 5/31 6/8 6/15 6/22 6/29
Oregon Slope/Weiser 0.03 0.04 0.06 0.15 2.47 4.41 5.22
Vale 0.15 0.55 1.64 2.60 4.79 6.44 5.72
Ontario 0.07 0.03 0.78 0.71 1.92 4.35 5.98
Nyssa 0.02 0.07 1.32 1.03 3.67 5.20 7.33
Adrian 0.02 0.22 1.60 1.67 2.15 2.63 7.60
Fruitland 0.05 0.03 0.19 0.94 1.29 6.12 6.30
Parma - 0.09 1.60 0.67 2.75 7.89 3.47
Overall Average 0.06 0.15 1.03 1.11 2.72 5.29 5.95

Immatures per Plant
Growing Area 5/15 5/25 5/31 6/8 6/15 6/22 6/29
Oregon Slope/Weiser 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.26 5.45 12.55 9.90
Vale 0.00 0.41 6.28 4.20 11.16 5.99 11.64
Ontario 0.00 0.00 3.60 1.71 8.71 22.81 21.28
Nyssa 0.00 0.02 3.56 5.52 8.00 10.58 26.98
Adrian 0.00 0.00 8.42 3.64 5.45 1.10 5.17
Fruitland 0.00 0.00 0.16 2.20 3.39 7.62 1.55
Parma - 0.00 1.97 4.37 1.66 2.90 12.78
Overall Average 0.00 0.06 3.43 3.13 6.26 9.08 12.76

Total average per Plant
Growing Area 5/15 5/25 5/31 6/8 6/15 6/22 6/29
Oregon Slope/Weiser 0.03 0.04 0.06 0.42 7.92 16.96 15.12
Vale 0.15 0.96 7.92 6.79 15.96 12.43 17.36
Ontario 0.07 0.03 4.38 2.42 10.63 27.16 27.26
Nyssa 0.02 0.09 4.88 6.55 11.67 15.78 34.31
Adrian 0.02 0.22 10.01 5.31 7.61 3.73 12.77
Fruitland 0.05 0.03 0.35 3.14 4.68 13.74 7.85
Parma - 0.09 3.58 5.03 4.41 10.79 16.25
Overall Average 0.06 0.21 4.45 4.24 8.98 14.37 18.70


% Plants with Thrips
Growing Area 5/15 5/25 5/31 6/8 6/15 6/22 6/29
Oregon Slope/Weiser 0% 4% 6% 14% 68% 81% 93%
Vale 0% 31% 64% 54% 81% 83% 76%
Ontario 0% 3% 34% 35% 73% 89% 96%
Nyssa 0% 5% 73% 56% 70% 87% 97%
Adrian 0% 19% 57% 53% 70% 86% 98%
Fruitland 0% 3% 17% 50% 54% 94% 100%
Parma 0% 7% 54% 41% 89% 84% 74%
Overall Average 0% 10% 43% 43% 72% 86% 91%


IYSV Incidence (% plants with lesions)
Growing Area 5/15 5/25 5/31 6/8 6/15 6/22 6/29
Oregon Slope/Weiser 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0%
Vale 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0%
Ontario 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.9%
Nyssa 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.1%
Adrian 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0%
Fruitland 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.2% 9.4%
Parma 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0%
Overall Average 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 1.5%

Onion Thrips update 6/22/2019

Onion    Treasure Valley

Onion thrips

Posted on: June 22, 2019 by Stuart Reitz

Below are the monitoring results for this week. Fields were checked Thursday afternoon, Friday, and a few Saturday morning. There are 7 – 10 fields in each area.

Not surprisingly, there’s been a sharp increase in thrips in some areas. In other areas, numbers have held fairly steady. Some of the difference reflects where people are with their insecticide programs. For example, fields that have already received a second Movento application tend to have few immatures. Some of those that haven’t or just had a recent application tend to have more immatures and a higher proportion of immatures relative to adults. One way to see when the residual effect of Movento is declining is to see if the proportion of immatures is increasing.

I did find two Iris yellow spot infected plants this week so be on the lookout for it.

Despite a couple of brisk days this week, the degree days for June have been about the same as last year. For the season, 2019 is a couple of days behind 2018 but still a few days ahead of the historic average.

Adults per Plant
Growing Area 5/15 5/25 5/31 6/8 6/15 6/22
Oregon Slope/Weiser 0.03 0.04 0.06 0.15 2.47 4.41
Vale 0.15 0.55 1.64 2.60 4.79 6.44
Ontario 0.07 0.03 0.78 0.71 1.92 4.35
Nyssa 0.02 0.07 1.32 1.03 3.67 5.20
Adrian 0.02 0.22 1.60 1.67 2.15 2.63
Fruitland 0.05 0.03 0.19 0.94 1.29 6.12
Parma - 0.09 1.60 0.67 2.75 7.89
Overall Average 0.06 0.15 1.03 1.11 2.72 5.29

Immatures per Plant
Growing Area 5/15 5/25 5/31 6/8 6/15 6/22
Oregon Slope/Weiser 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.26 5.45 12.55
Vale 0.00 0.41 6.28 4.20 11.16 5.99
Ontario 0.00 0.00 3.60 1.71 8.71 22.81
Nyssa 0.00 0.02 3.56 5.52 8.00 10.58
Adrian 0.00 0.00 8.42 3.64 5.45 1.10
Fruitland 0.00 0.00 0.16 2.20 3.39 7.62
Parma - 0.00 1.97 4.37 1.66 2.90
Overall Average 0.00 0.06 3.43 3.13 6.26 9.08

Total average per Plant
Growing Area 5/15 5/25 5/31 6/8 6/15 6/22
Oregon Slope/Weiser 0.03 0.04 0.06 0.42 7.92 16.96
Vale 0.15 0.96 7.92 6.79 15.96 12.43
Ontario 0.07 0.03 4.38 2.42 10.63 27.16
Nyssa 0.02 0.09 4.88 6.55 11.67 15.78
Adrian 0.02 0.22 10.01 5.31 7.61 3.73
Fruitland 0.05 0.03 0.35 3.14 4.68 13.74
Parma - 0.09 3.58 5.03 4.41 10.79
Overall Average 0.06 0.21 4.45 4.24 8.98 14.37

% Plants with Thrips
Growing Area 5/15 5/25 5/31 6/8 6/15 6/22
Oregon Slope/Weiser 0% 4% 6% 14% 68% 81%
Vale 0% 31% 64% 54% 81% 83%
Ontario 0% 3% 34% 35% 73% 89%
Nyssa 0% 5% 73% 56% 70% 87%
Adrian 0% 19% 57% 53% 70% 86%
Fruitland 0% 3% 17% 50% 54% 94%
Parma 0% 7% 54% 41% 89% 84%
Overall Average 0% 10% 43% 43% 72% 86%

Onion Thrips update 6/15/2019

Onion    Treasure Valley

Onion thrips

Posted on: June 16, 2019 by Stuart Reitz

With the warmer weather, thrips numbers continue to increase around the valley, with a greater and greater proportion of plants having thrips on them. The sharp increase in abundance in the Slope / Weiser area are from fields that had not been sprayed yet. Similar increases in other areas reflect fields where counts were taken ahead of an insecticide treatment. Keep in mind that adults continue to come into fields from outside sources so their numbers rebound soon after insecticide applications followed by increases in the immatures. Monitoring fields can help you prioritize and schedule fields for applications.

We have not observed Iris yellow spot virus yet in this season’s crop.

Adults per Plant
Growing Area 5/15 5/25 5/31 6/8 6/15
Oregon Slope/Weiser 0.03 0.04 0.06 0.15 2.47
Vale 0.15 0.55 1.64 2.60 4.79
Ontario 0.07 0.03 0.78 0.71 1.92
Nyssa 0.02 0.07 1.32 1.03 3.67
Adrian 0.02 0.22 1.60 1.67 2.15
Fruitland 0.05 0.03 0.19 0.94 1.29
Parma - 0.09 1.60 0.67 2.75
Overall Average 0.06 0.15 1.03 1.11 2.72

Immatures per Plant
Growing Area 5/15 5/25 5/31 6/8 6/15
Oregon Slope/Weiser 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.26 5.45
Vale 0.00 0.41 6.28 4.20 11.16
Ontario 0.00 0.00 3.60 1.71 8.71
Nyssa 0.00 0.02 3.56 5.52 8.00
Adrian 0.00 0.00 8.42 3.64 5.45
Fruitland 0.00 0.00 0.16 2.20 3.39
Parma - 0.00 1.97 4.37 1.66
Overall Average 0.00 0.06 3.43 3.13 6.26

Total average per Plant
Growing Area 5/15 5/25 5/31 6/8 6/15
Oregon Slope/Weiser 0.03 0.04 0.06 0.42 7.92
Vale 0.15 0.96 7.92 6.79 15.96
Ontario 0.07 0.03 4.38 2.42 10.63
Nyssa 0.02 0.09 4.88 6.55 11.67
Adrian 0.02 0.22 10.01 5.31 7.61
Fruitland 0.05 0.03 0.35 3.14 4.68
Parma - 0.09 3.58 5.03 4.41
Overall Average 0.06 0.21 4.45 4.24 8.98



% Plants with Thrips
Growing Area 5/15 5/25 5/31 6/8 6/15
Oregon Slope/Weiser 0% 4% 6% 14% 68%
Vale 0% 31% 64% 54% 81%
Ontario 0% 3% 34% 35% 73%
Nyssa 0% 5% 73% 56% 70%
Adrian 0% 19% 57% 53% 70%
Fruitland 0% 3% 17% 50% 54%
Parma 0% 7% 54% 41% 89%
Overall Average 0% 10% 43% 43% 72%

Onion Thrips update

Onion    Treasure Valley

Onion thrips

Posted on: May 31, 2019 by Stuart Reitz

We had a sharp increase in thrips numbers in most areas over the past week. Fields were checked on Thursday and Friday (5/30 – 5/31). Thrips were in 90% of the fields checked this week and are being found on more plants per field now. The overall increase was largely a result of thrips beginning to reproduce in fields (as marked by the increase in immature thrips). Numbers tend to be higher in fields with larger plants. The highest numbers have been in red onion fields with plants at the 4-5 leaf stage and in early onion fields (e.g. Spanish Medallion and other early varieties). The highest numbers in the network were about 32 per plant in a red onion field (about 85% being immatures). The lowest numbers have been in fields at the 1-2 leaf stage, especially those in the Oregon Slope/Weiser area.

Expect additional movement of thrips into onion fields as more alfalfa fields get their first cutting and as rangeland weeds begin to dry down and senesce. Populations will increase rapidly with the warmer, drier weather in the forecast.

Adults per Plant
Growing Area 5/15 5/25 5/31
Oregon Slope/Weiser 0.03 0.04 0.06
Vale 0.15 0.55 1.64
Ontario 0.07 0.03 0.78
Nyssa 0.02 0.07 1.32
Adrian 0.02 0.22 1.60
Fruitland 0.05 0.03 0.19
Parma - 0.09 1.60
Overall Average 0.06 0.15 1.03

Immatures per Plant
Growing Area 5/15 5/25 5/31
Oregon Slope/Weiser 0.00 0.00 0.00
Vale 0.00 0.41 6.28
Ontario 0.00 0.00 3.60
Nyssa 0.00 0.02 3.56
Adrian 0.00 0.00 8.42
Fruitland 0.00 0.00 0.16
Parma - 0.00 1.97
Overall Average 0.00 0.06 3.43

Total average per Plant
Growing Area 5/15 5/25 5/31
Oregon Slope/Weiser 0.03 0.04 0.06
Vale 0.15 0.96 7.92
Ontario 0.07 0.03 4.38
Nyssa 0.02 0.09 4.88
Adrian 0.02 0.22 10.01
Fruitland 0.05 0.03 0.35
Parma - 0.09 3.58
Overall Average 0.06 0.21 4.45

% Plants with Thrips
Growing Area 5/15/2019 5/25/2019 5/31/2019
Oregon Slope/Weiser 3% 4% 6%
Vale 15% 31% 64%
Ontario 7% 3% 34%
Nyssa 2% 5% 73%
Adrian 2% 19% 57%
Fruitland 5% 3% 17%
Parma - 7% 54%
Overall Average 6% 10% 43%



A couple of notes unrelated to onion thrips
1 – As a result of the cool, wet spring, downy mildew has shown up in some overwinter onions in the Columbia Basin. I haven’t seen signs of it in the Treasure Valley, but it’s worth keeping an eye out for it. Even with the wet weather, I don’t think the bulb crop is at high risk since the crop is relatively small and doesn’t have a dense canopy yet that keeps moisture levels high on the leaves. It could be a greater risk for seed crops that have a denser canopy now. Please let me know if you have concerns about it in your fields.


Thanks to Carrie Wohleb and Lindsey du Toit for the pictures of downy mildew on onion foliage and flower scapes.

2 – if you have sugarbeets, there have been reports of leafminer and armyworms in beet fields.

3 –June 13 2019: Snake River Weed Research Tour, Malheur Experiment Station, 595 Onion Ave, Ontario, OR, beginning at 8:30 AM
http://www.cropinfo.net/events.php

Cull Onion Disposal Deadline for Onion Maggot Control - March 15

Onion    All Locations

Onion Maggot

Posted on: March 13, 2019 by Stuart Reitz

The deadline for disposal of cull onions for Malheur County and Ada, Canyon, Gem, Payette, Owyhee and Washington counties in Idaho is March 15.

All cull or waste onions are required to be disposed of properly by March 15.

For cull onions produced after the March 15 deadline until July 1, the Control Orders require cull be disposed of properly within one week for proper disposal.

Please remember to keep trucks covered to avoid onions spilling onto roadways.

Please see the attached letter or the link below for more information from ODA and ISDA.

Thrips Update 7/13/18

Onion    Treasure Valley

thrips

Posted on: July 16, 2018 by Jerry Neufeld

Stuart Reitz, from OSU Malheur County Extension, is monitoring Treasure Valley onion fields for thrips this summer. Click on the pdf below for an update on this project as of 7/13/18.

University of Idaho onion workshop and field tour

Onion    Treasure Valley

Posted on: June 27, 2018 by Jerry Neufeld

The University of Idaho is hosting an onion workshop and field tour on July 13 at the Parma R and E Center. You are encouraged to RSVP since seating in limited. Click on the pdf below for more information.

Hail damage to onions

Onion    Treasure Valley

Hail Damage

Posted on: May 6, 2018 by Stuart Reitz

A strong thunderstorm with high winds and hail crossed through parts of the valley Sunday evening. According to the National Weather Service, it went from Nyssa to the Fruitland and Payette areas.

If your onions were damaged in the storm, remember that the plants will benefit from a protective bactericide/fungicide application. Hail can create small and large wounds that leave plants extremely vulnerable to diseases.

As soon as you can get on the field, apply a copper containing protectant spray. Copper protects against bacterial and fungal diseases so it is a better option than fungicides that do not contain copper. This will help prevent infections while those wounds heal. The sooner after any damage occurs, the better.

Allium (Onion) Leaf Miner

Onion    Treasure Valley

Allium Leaf Miner

Posted on: March 27, 2018 by Jerry Neufeld

Allium Leaf Miner, or Onion Leaf Miner is one of the worst onion pests in Europe. It is currently found in several counties in New Jersey and Pennsylvania. This pest was recently deregulated by USDA-APHIS, meaning it will not be stopped when found at port inspections, thereby posing a threat to other onion producing areas in the U.S. Click on the link below for more information about this pest from the Oregon Department of Agriculture.

Cull Onion Disposal Deadline - March 15

Onion    Treasure Valley

Onion Maggot

Posted on: March 9, 2018 by Stuart Reitz

March 15th is the deadline for disposing of cull onions in Malheur County, and in Ada, Canyon, Gem, Payette, Owyhee and Washington counties of Idaho, according to Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA) and Idaho State Department of Agriculture (ISDA) rules. That means there must be no culls – onions deemed waste or not useable for human consumption – on hand at any packing sheds, in fields or at animal feed facilities on the morning of that date. Onions sorted after March 15th must be properly disposed of within one week. Trucks transporting onions should be covered to prevent spillage along roadsides.

ODA Rules: https://secure.sos.state.or.us/oard/viewSingleRule.action?ruleVrsnRsn=158227

ISDA Rules: https://adminrules.idaho.gov/rules/current/02/0617.pdf

Iris yellow spot virus in Onion bulb fields

Onion    Treasure Valley

Iris yellow spot virus / Onion thrips

Posted on: July 10, 2017 by Stuart Reitz

Iris yellow spot virus was detected at the end of last week in commercial onion fields in Malheur County, Canyon County, Payette County and Washington County. So far, only a few infected plants were found but no widespread outbreaks were found.

Maintaining good thrips management will help limit the spread and severity of the disease. Infective adult thrips spread the virus from plant to plant as well as within a plant. Infective juveniles also can spread the virus within a plant.

In addition to thrips management, minimize stress on onion plants by making sure fields are maintained at an adequate but not excessive fertility level, and that the soil moisture is kept at about the 20 centibar level. This will help reduce the severity of virus symptoms.

Please contact Stuart Reitz at Malheur County Extension (541-881-1417 / stuart.reitz@oregonstate.edu) if you have questions about your onion fields or would like assistance with virus diagnosis.

Onion Maggot Advisory for Malheur County

Onion    Northern Idaho

Onion Maggot

Posted on: April 14, 2017 by Stuart Reitz

ODA Pesticides Program has identified a limited number of pesticide products with labels allowing applications to cull piles. Those products are:
Azaguard (BioSafe),
Ecozin Plus (AMVAC),
Malathion 8F (Gowan) and
Malathion 5EC (Arysta).

The Advisory and Labels for the four products specified in the Advisory are available on the Malheur County Website: http://extension.oregonstate.edu/malheur/agriculture.

The directions for applications to cull pile areas on the labels may indicate mosquitos as the target pest, but it is the specific use site (cull piles) that is necessary for the applications to be legally allowed, regardless the specific pest being targeted.

Please note, this advisory is for Oregon. The Idaho Department of Agriculture has issued information for Idaho.

Please contact David Priebe, Rose Kachadoorian, or Dale Mitchell if you have questions or concerns about the advisory for Malheur County.

David Priebe (503)986-4656 / dpriebe@oda.state.or.us

Onion Variety Day at the Malheur Experiment Station

Onion    Treasure Valley

Posted on: August 22, 2016 by Bill Buhrig

The annual Onion Variety Day at the Malheur Experiment Station will be Tuesday, August 30th. It is free to attend and you are invited to check things out. The field portion starts at 9am and there will be lunch starting at noon in the barn. It will be a good time to see how the varieties performed and visit with your neighbors!

Iris yellow spot virus in Volunteer Onions

Onion    All Locations

Iris yellow spot virus / onion thrips

Posted on: May 27, 2016 by Stuart Reitz

Iris yellow spot virus (IYSV) was detected in volunteer onions in the Ontario, OR area. Characteristic necrotic, diamond-shaped lesions were found on flower scapes. Volunteer onions can serve as a source of virus-infected thrips to move into this season's onion crop.

Although the virus has not yet been found in this season's bulb fields, please continue to monitor fields carefully for thrips. Thrips populations have grown substantially over the past week, and the high temperatures forecast for later next week will further increase thrips development and population growth.

Reducing overall stress on onions will help reduce the severity of damage from thrips and virus

If you see potentially symptomatic plants that you would like tested for virus or have questions about thrips and the virus, please contact Stuart Reitz, Malheur County Extension, 541-881-1417.

Malheur County, OR - 24(c) label to apply Outlook to Onions through Drip

Onion    Northern Idaho

Yellow Nutsedge

Posted on: April 12, 2016 by Stuart Reitz

MALHEUR COUNTY has a new Special Local Needs (24C) label for applying the herbicide Outlook to onions through drip irrigation for yellow nutsedge control.

Applications can be made from the 2 - 6 leaf stage of the onion crop, A total of 21 oz. per season may be applied to the crop. There is a single application limit of 14 oz of Outlook per acre. The remainder of the 21 oz limit can be applied in a sequential application made at least 14 days later.

Please consult the label for complete instructions.

Research conducted at the Malheur Experiment Station has shown improved yellow nutsedge control with drip applications compared with conventional post-emergence foliar applications (http://cropinfo.net/pdf/ar/2014/2014-011-OnionOutDrip.pdf). Please note the research was conducted with one variety, "Vaquero".

To make drip applications of Outlook, users must have the 24(c) label and the entire Outlook container label in possession at the time of pesticide application.

IDAHO - 24(c) label for Outlook applied to onions through drip irrigation

Onion    Treasure Valley - Idaho

Yellow Nutsedge

Posted on: April 4, 2016 by Stuart Reitz

IDAHO has a new Special Local Needs (24C) label for applying the herbicide Outlook to onions through drip irrigation for yellow nutsedge control.

Applications can be made from the 2 - 6 leaf stage of the onion crop, with a maximum application rate of 14 oz of Outlook per acre. A total of 21 oz. per season may be applied to a crop.

Please consult the label for complete instructions.

Research conducted at the Malheur Experiment Station has shown improved yellow nutsedge control with drip applications compared with conventional post-emergence foliar applications (http://cropinfo.net/pdf/ar/2014/2014-011-OnionOutDrip.pdf). Please note the research was conducted with one variety, "Vaquero".

To make drip applications of Outlook, users must have the 24(c) label and the entire Outlook container label in possession at the time of pesticide application.

For distribution and use only in Ada, Canyon, Gem, Owyhee, Payette, and Washington Counties in Idaho

Cull Onion Disposal 2016

Onion    Treasure Valley

onion maggot

Posted on: February 22, 2016 by Jerry Neufeld

The Idaho State Department of Agriculture has prepared a news release reminding the onion industry about the rules for cull onion disposal to control onion maggot in the Treasure Valley of Idaho. Click on the pdf below for more detailed information.

Black Mold on Onion

Onion    Treasure Valley

Black Mold of Onion - Aspergillus niger

Posted on: August 20, 2015 by Stuart Reitz

Black mold has been found in some early harvested onions in the Treasure Valley.

Black mold is caused by the fungus Aspergillus niger. This disease can develop in the field or during storage. The predominant symptom is a black discoloration of tissue. Infected bulbs may show blackening at the neck, streaks or spots of black fungal spores on or beneath the outer scales, and black discoloration in bruised areas.

Bulbs usually get infected by the fungus through wounds, especially through the neck as onions mature and tops fall over or are cut. The fungus is common in the soil and on dead plant material and spores can readily spread through the air.
Therefore, keeping bulbs in good condition will help prevent disease development.
It is critical to promptly and adequately dry bulbs after harvest so there is not too much moisture in the necks to promote disease development. Remember, warmth and moisture favor disease development.

It is also important to avoid wounding and bruising when bulbs are harvested, transported, or stored.

Storing bulbs at low temperatures (35°F to 55°F) and low humidity helps to control black mold if the bulbs have been cured properly.

Malheur Exp. Station Onion Variety Day

Onion    Treasure Valley - Oregon

Posted on: August 14, 2015 by Bill Buhrig

Please join us for the annual Onion Variety Day at the Malheur Experiment Station outside of Ontario on August 25. Tour the plot in the morning and catch lunch as well! It will be a good time!

Check out the attached PDF for more information!

Iris yellow spot in bulb onions

Onion    Treasure Valley

IYSV and Onion thrips

Posted on: June 13, 2015 by Stuart Reitz

Iris yellow spot virus was detected in commercial bulb fields in Payette County.

The advanced symptoms (dried necrotic tissue) seen on some infected plants suggests the infection has been present for at least 2 weeks.

The early appearance of virus points out the need for onion growers to be vigilant in their thrips control programs.

Insecticides won't prevent movement of virus-infected thrips into fields, but can help reduce the secondary spread of virus within fields by reducing plant to plant movement of thrips and their reproduction within the crop.

In addition to thrips management, minimize stress on onion plants by making sure fields are maintained at an adequate but not excessive fertility level, and that the soil moisture is kept at about the 20 centibar level. This will help reduce the severity of virus symptoms.

Please contact Stuart Reitz at Malheur County Extension (541-881-1417 / stuart.reitz@oregonstate.edu) if you have questions about your onion fields or would like assistance with virus diagnosis.

Iris yellow spot in bulb onions

Onion    Treasure Valley

IYSV and Onion thrips

Posted on: June 13, 2015 by Stuart Reitz

Iris yellow spot virus was detected in commercial bulb fields in Payette County.

The advanced symptoms (dried necrotic tissue) seen on some infected plants suggests the infection has been present for at least 2 weeks.

The early appearance of virus points out the need for onion growers to be vigilant in their thrips control programs.

Insecticides won't prevent movement of virus-infected thrips into fields, but can help reduce the secondary spread of virus within fields by reducing plant to plant movement of thrips and their reproduction within the crop.

In addition to thrips management, minimize stress on onion plants by making sure fields are maintained at an adequate but not excessive fertility level, and that the soil moisture is kept at about the 20 centibar level. This will help reduce the severity of virus symptoms.

Please contact Stuart Reitz at Malheur County Extension (541-881-1417 / stuart.reitz@oregonstate.edu) if you have questions about your onion fields or would like assistance with virus diagnosis.

Iris yellow spot in volunteer onions

Onion    Treasure Valley

Iris Yellow Spot / Onion thrips

Posted on: May 21, 2015 by Stuart Reitz

Several volunteer onions with Iris yellow spot virus (IYSV) have been found this week in Malheur County. Volunteer onions can serve as a source virus-infected thrips to move into this season's onion crop. Although the virus has not yet been found in this season's bulb fields, please continue to monitor fields carefully.

If you see potentially symptomatic plants that you would like tested for virus or have questions about thrips and the virus, please contact Stuart Reitz, Malheur County Extension, 541-881-1417.

Onion Bulb Mites

Onion    Treasure Valley

Onion Bulb MIte

Posted on: May 15, 2015 by Stuart Reitz

Onion bulb mites have been found in several onion fields across the Treasure Valley. So far numbers appear to be low but they may be a contributing factor to stand losses.

Bulb mites can overwinter in the soil on decomposing vegetation or on volunteer onions in the field and in cull piles. Mild winter weather may have reduced their natural overwinter mortality.

Management relies on preventative measures, such as field sanitation and fumigation of fields with a history of problems.

If you have questions or concerns about onion bulb mites, please contact Stuart Reitz, Malheur County Extension, 541-881-1417, stuart.reitz@oregonstate.edu.

Onion thrips on volunteer onions

Onion    Treasure Valley

Onion thrips

Posted on: March 17, 2015 by Stuart Reitz

Onion thrips are present on volunteer onions that have resprouted from last year's onion fields. Both adult and immature thrips are present.

Volunteer onions can serve as a reservoir for thrips and Iris yellow spot virus to infest nearby onion fields. Control of volunteer onions may help to reduce thrips and Iris yellow spot pressure this season.

cull onion disposal in the Treasure Valley

Onion    Treasure Valley

onion maggot

Posted on: February 25, 2015 by Jerry Neufeld

The Idaho State Department of Agriculture has prepared a news release reminding the onion industry about the rules for cull onion disposal to control onion maggot in the Treasure Valley of Idaho. Click on the pdf below for more detailed information.

Malheur Experiment Station Onion Variety Day

Onion    Treasure Valley

Posted on: August 15, 2014 by Stuart Reitz

You are invited to the Malheur Experiment Station Onion Variety Day presented by the OSU Malheur Experiment Station. The Variety day will be Tuesday August 26, 2014 from 9 AM to 1 PM.

At 10 AM there will be an overview of research trials related to E. coli bacteria in irrigation water and the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA).

Complimentary lunch will be served. Please reserve lunch by calling Janet Jones at the Malheur Experiment Station, 595 Onion Ave., Ontario OR 97914, (541) 889-2174.

Iris Yellow Spot Virus (IYSV) in Onion

Onion    Treasure Valley

Onion thrips / IYSV

Posted on: June 9, 2014 by Stuart Reitz

On June 9th, Iris Yellow Spot Virus was detected in a commercial onion bulb field in Malheur County and confirmed by diagnostic tests.

Although, there has been a substantial increase in onion thrips populations over the past week, the advanced symptoms (dried necrotic tissue) seen on some infected plants suggests the infection has been present for several weeks.

The early appearance of virus points out the need for onion producers to be vigilant in their thrips control programs.

This is especially important for fields close to overwintering onions or volunteers as these plants can act as a “green bridge” for onion thrips and IYSV.

In addition to thrips management, minimize stress on onion plants by making sure fields are maintained at an adequate fertility level, and that the soil moisture is kept at about the 20 centibar level. This will help reduce the severity of symptoms.

Please feel free to contact Stuart Reitz at Malheur County Extension if you have questions about your onion fields or would like assistance with virus diagnosis.

Onion thrips

Onion    Treasure Valley

Onion thrips

Posted on: April 6, 2014 by Stuart Reitz

Onion thrips have been found this week on volunteer onions growing in last year’s onion fields in Malheur, Canyon and Payette Counties. Adult thrips have also been found on sticky traps placed around those fields. Volunteer onions can host onion thrips and Iris Yellow Spot Virus, and act as a reservoir to infest newly emerged onion fields that are nearby. Control of volunteer onions, especially in fields that were heavily infected, before emergence of nearby seeded onion fields may help to reduce thrips and Iris yellow spot pressure this season.

Starane Ultra - Section 24(c) for Oregon

Onion    Treasure Valley - Oregon

Posted on: March 24, 2014 by Stuart Reitz

label for the FIFRA Section 24(c) Special Local Need registration of Starane® Ultra, EPA Reg. No. 62719-577, for control of kochia, volunteer potatoes, and other broadleaf weeds in dry bulb onions grown in Oregon, EPA SLN No. OR-080026 has been revised.

The expiration date has been extended to December 31, 2018.

Onion Variety Day

Onion    Treasure Valley

Posted on: August 26, 2013 by Jerry Neufeld

The OSU Malheur Experiment Station is hosting an Onion Variety Day Tuesday, August 27, 2013. Click on the pdf below for the details.

Iris Yellow Spot in Malheur County

Onion    Treasure Valley

Iris yellow spot virus

Posted on: July 9, 2013 by Stuart Reitz

Iris yellow spot virus has been confirmed in onion fields in the Nyssa and Ontario, Oregon areas.

Reducing plant stress will help to reduce the severity of the disease. Try to minimize stress by making sure fields are maintained at an adequate fertility level, and that the soil moisture is kept at about the 20 centibar level.

Maintain good thrips management with insecticide applications to help to reduce further spread of the virus.

Iris Yellow Spot Virus

Onion    Treasure Valley

Iris Yellow Spot Virus

Posted on: June 28, 2013 by Jerry Neufeld

Dr. Clint Shock from the OSU Malheur Experiment Station is reporting that Iris Yellow Spot virus has been confirmed in the Fruitland, Idaho area. Make sure onion fields are maintained at an adequate fertility level, and that the soil moisture level is kept at about the 20 centibar level. Make thrips control insecticide applications every 7 - 10 days.

Onion Thrips

Onion    Treasure Valley

Onion Thrips

Posted on: May 8, 2013 by Stuart Reitz

Onion Thrips – A check of the onion fields at the Malheur Experiment Station and surrounding grower fields showed an average of almost 1 thrips per plant. Most thrips found were adults, but larvae were also observed on several plants. With the warm weather that is forecast for the next 7 - 10 days, thrips populations may build very rapidly. This would be a good time for growers to begin scouting fields for thrips activity.

volunteer onions

Onion    Treasure Valley - Idaho

thrips

Posted on: April 5, 2013 by Jerry Neufeld

Dr. Mike Thornton, from the U of I, Parma R and E Center is reporting that volunteer onions are emerging. Volunteer onions can be a host for both onion thrips and Iris Yellow Spot Virus, and act as a reservoir to infest newly emerged onion fields that are nearby. He recommends that growers take measures to control volunteer onions prior to emergence of the seeded onion crop.

Movento Section 18 Label for Onions

Onion    Treasure Valley - Idaho

Onion Thrips

Posted on: March 27, 2013 by Stuart Reitz

The U.S. EPA has APPROVED our request for Section 18 emergency use of spirotetramat (Movento, Bayer CropScience) to control thrips in dry bulb onions grown in Idaho and Oregon during 2013.

This exemption is effective immediately and expires on 15 September 2013.

As always, the Section 18 label must be in possession of the user at the time of application.

cull onion disposal

Onion    All Locations

onion maggot

Posted on: February 22, 2013 by Jerry Neufeld

The deadline for disposing of cull onions in Ada, Canyon, Gem, Payette, Owyhee and Washington Counties is March 15, 2013. Click on the pdfs below, from the Idaho State Department of Agriculture,for more information about disposal of cull onions

onion thrips field tour

Onion    Treasure Valley - Idaho

announcement

Posted on: August 6, 2012 by Jerry Neufeld

Attached is a flyer about an upcoming field tour on thrips control in onions. Tour is Wednesday, August 8, from 3:30 to 5 pm at the UI Parma R and E Center. Refreshments will be served. Click on the pdf below for more details.

thrips control field tour

Onion    Treasure Valley - Idaho

onion thrips

Posted on: July 20, 2012 by Jerry Neufeld

Attached is a flyer about an upcoming field tour on thrips control in onions. Tour is Wednesday, August 8, from 3:30 to 5 pm at the UI Parma R and E Center. Refreshments will be served. Click on the pdf below for more details.

onion thrips and green peach aphid

Onion    Treasure Valley - Oregon

onion thrips and green peach aphid

Posted on: July 2, 2012 by Jerry Neufeld

Dr. Clint Shock from the OSU Malheur Experiment Station is reporting the following:

onion thrips populations in Ontario area are high where not well controlled.

Green peach aphid populations are still low on potato across Malheur County.

Squash bugs are showing up on squash in Ontario.

onion thrips

Onion    Treasure Valley - Idaho

thrips

Posted on: May 16, 2012 by Jerry Neufeld

Dr. Mike Thornton from the UI Parma station is reporting that they are starting to find a few onion thrips in their plants samples. While we have not yet reached the action threshold of 1 thrips per plant, the warm weather forecast for the next week means that insect populations may build very rapidly. He advises that growers begin scouting for thrips in the next few days to help in scheduling the first insecticide application.

U-Idaho Fruit Conference February 7-8

Onion    Treasure Valley - Idaho

Posted on: January 23, 2012 by Tony McCammon

Do you need Pesticide Certification Credits? Plan on joining the fruit industry for a pest management conference on February 7-8 in Weiser, Idaho. 8 Idaho and 7 Oregon Credits are offered. Open the attachments for registration details. Space is limited.

onion thrips control

Onion    Treasure Valley - Idaho

onion thrips

Posted on: August 1, 2011 by Jerry Neufeld

Attached is a flyer about an upcoming meeting on thrips control in onions. Meeting is Thursday, August 11, from 4 to 5 pm at the UI Parma R and E Center. Refreshments will be served. Click on the link below for more details.

Iris Yellow Spot Virus in onions

Onion    Treasure Valley - Idaho

Iris Yellow Spot Virus

Posted on: July 26, 2011 by Jerry Neufeld

Dr. Mike Thornton from the U of I Parma Research and Extension Center is reporting that Iris Yellow Spot Virus in onions has been confirmed in Canyon County. Make sure onion fields are maintained at an adequate fertility level, and that the soil moisture level is kept at about the 20 centibar level. Make thrips control insecticide applications every 7 - 10 days.

Agri-Mek Section 18 approved

Onion    All Locations

Thrips

Posted on: June 27, 2011 by Steve Norberg

Section 18 approved for Agri-Mek in Oregon for thrips in onions. See Oregon Department of Agriculture for label at
http://oregon.gov/ODA/PEST/sec18.shtml or see attached label and letter.

onion thrips

Onion    All Locations

onion thrips

Posted on: June 14, 2011 by Jerry Neufeld

Dr. Clint Shock, Superintendant at the OSU Malheur Experiment station is reporting that thrips counts have passed three per plant at the Oregon State University Malheur Experiment Station. Dr. Mike Thornton from the UI-CALS Parma Research and Extension Center is reporting average thrip counts of nearly one per plant. Recent research has shown that most control programs are most effective when early season sprays start when populations are no more than 1 to 3 thrips per plant.

onion thrips

Onion    Treasure Valley - Idaho

thrips

Posted on: May 18, 2011 by Jerry Neufeld

Dr. Mike Thornton from the UI Parma station is reporting that onion thrips adults are being caught on sticky traps, and larvae have been observed on volunteer onions. Even though the crop is behind schedule due to cool weather, he advises that growers begin scouting for thrips in the next few days to help in scheduling the first insecticide application.

Movento for onion thrips

Onion    Treasure Valley - Idaho

onion thrips

Posted on: March 21, 2011 by Jerry Neufeld

Idaho has received a section 18 label for use of Movento to use in management of onion thrips in onion bulbs during the 2011 growing season. Growers need to have a copy of the label in hand and follow all label directions. The label can be found on the Idaho State Department of Agriculture website at the following address: http://www.agri.state.id.us/Categories/Pesticides/registration/Section18.php

Onion Cull Order

Onion    Treasure Valley - Oregon

Onion Maggot

Posted on: March 14, 2011 by Steve Norberg

Onion Maggot Control Area in Malheur County
603-052-0360
Control Area: Onion Maggot -- Malheur County

(1) A control area is established within the boundaries of Malheur County for the protection of
the onion industry by the eradication or control of the insect pest known as the onion maggot.
This control area order is based on IPM principles first recognized and used by Malheur County
growers in 1957.

(2) The following methods of eradication and control are declared to be the proper methods used
in this control area order:

(a) All cull or waste onions in Malheur County shall be disposed of by a method approved by
this control order prior to March 15 each year; for onions sorted after that date until July 1, the
resulting cull and waste onions shall be disposed of within one week after such sorting;

(b) Disposal of cull or waste onions shall be accomplished only as set forth below:
(A) Disposal by covering in a dump site approved by the Oregon Department of Environmental
Quality (DEQ). Culls and onion debris shall be dumped and covered by at least 12 inches of
onion-free soil by March 15 each year;

(B) Disposal by animal feeding. Culls and onion debris shall be completely removed from
feeding areas by March 15 and buried under 12 inches of onion-free soil. Onions tramped into
the soil so they cannot be removed shall be plowed to a depth of 12 inches;

(C) Disposal by chopping or shredding. Chopped or shredded onion debris that is incapable of
sprouting may be returned to the field at a tonnage rate no higher than the DEQ-approved rate of
80 tons per acre and plowed to a depth where no onion parts are exposed on the surface;

(D) Composting. All onion debris shall be incorporated into the compost bed and completely
covered by 12 inches of onion-free soil;

(E) Disposal of residue in onion producing fields. Commercial onion fields where sort out bulbs
are left at harvest shall be disked to destroy the bulbs and shall be plowed to a depth of at least
12 inches by March 15 each year. Seed bulbs shall be disposed of in the same manner following
the last harvest. The owner of the field is ultimately responsible for compliance with this rule;

(F) If inclement weather prevents plowing, the culls will be treated with an EPA-labeled
insecticide currently listed in the PNW Insect Control Handbook at prescribed intervals until
proper disposal occurs.

Cull Onion Piles

Onion    Treasure Valley - Idaho

onion maggot

Posted on: March 7, 2011 by Jerry Neufeld

Attached below is a pdf with information from the Idaho State Department of Agriculture about the disposal rules for the control of Onion Maggot.

Iris Yellow Spot Virus

Onion    Treasure Valley - Oregon

Iris Yellow Spot Virus

Posted on: July 21, 2010 by Jerry Neufeld

Lynn Jensen from the OSU Malheur County Extension office is reporting that Iris yellow spot virus has been confirmed in Malheur County. Make sure onion fields are maintained at an adequate fertility level, and that the soil moisture level is kept at about the 20 centibar level. Make thrips control insecticide applications every 7 - 10 days.

Iris Yellow Spot Virus

Onion    Treasure Valley - Idaho

Posted on: June 16, 2009 by Jerry Neufeld

I received the following email from Dr. Mike Thornton, from the UI Parma Research and Extension Center regarding Iris Yellow Spot Virus in onions.

On June 16th we noticed severe symptoms of Iris Yellow Spot Virus in an onion trial at the Parma R&E Center. This is 3 to 4 weeks earlier than we normally see virus symptoms in commercial onions. Although these onions were not overwintering, they were planted in early March from sets, and were the first field with green foliage in this region. There were also volunteer onions in an adjacent field that may have acted as a source of thrips and virus.

The early appearance of virus in this field points out the need for onion producers to be vigilant in their thrips control programs. This is especially important for fields close to overwintering onions or volunteers as these plants can act as a “green bridge” for thrips and IYSV.

Try to minimize stress by making sure fields are maintained at an adequate fertility level, and that the soil moisture is kept at about the 20 centibar level.

new onion disease

Onion    Treasure Valley - Idaho

Posted on: June 10, 2009 by Jerry Neufeld

Lynn Jensen, Potato and Onion Specialist with OSU in Malheur County is reporting that an onion disease that is new to the Treasure Valley has been identified. It is onion smut. The field is in Malheur County and is spring planted onions. The following web site has more information about onion smut.

http://plant-disease.ippc.orst.edu/disease.cfm?RecordID=758

onion thrips

Onion    Treasure Valley - Idaho

Posted on: June 1, 2009 by Jerry Neufeld

Dr. Mike Thornton, from the UI Parma Research and Extension Center, is reporting that the recent spike in temperatures has contributed to an increase in onion thrips populations in the onion fields near Parma. This small pest can cause direct plant damage when populations build to high levels, and also transmits the Iris Yellow Spot Virus (IYSV) to onions from overwintering sources. Past experience indicates that we normally start seeing symptoms of IYSV develop in local onion fields around mid-July to early August. It takes about 6 weeks after the plants become infected with IYSV for symptoms to develop, indicating that early to mid-June is a critical time for thrips control. This is a good time to start scouting onion fields for this pest.

Iris Yellow Spot Virus

Onion    Treasure Valley - Idaho

Posted on: July 23, 2008 by Jerry Neufeld

Lynn Jensen from the OSU Malheur County Extension office is reporting that Iris yellow spot virus has been confirmed in a bulb onion crop in the Nyssa and Ontario, Oregon areas. Make sure fields are maintained at an adequate fertility level, and that the soil moisture level is kept at about the 20 centibar level. Make thrips control insecticide applications every 7 - 10 days.

iris yellow spot virus

Onion    Treasure Valley - Idaho

Posted on: July 7, 2008 by Jerry Neufeld

Iris yellow spot virus has been confirmed in a bulb onion crop in the Fruitland area. This is an area that was hit hard by the virus last year, with increased potential for problems this year due to higher thrips numbers and a slow start to the growing season. Make sure fields are maintained at an adequate fertility level, and that the soil moisture level is kept at about the 20 centibar level. Make thrips control insecticide applications every 7 - 10 days.

Cull Onion Disposal

Onion    Treasure Valley - Idaho

Posted on: March 3, 2008 by Jerry Neufeld

DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE REMINDS THE ONION INDUSTRY OF THE CULL ONION DISPOSAL RULES FOR THE CONTROL OF
ONION MAGGOT

BOISE, Idaho – March 15th is the deadline for disposing of cull onions in Ada, Canyon, Gem, Payette, Owyhee and Washington counties, according to Idaho State Department of Agriculture (ISDA) rules.

That means there must be no culls – onions deemed waste or not useable for human consumption – on hand at any packing sheds, infields or at animal feed facilities on the morning of that date. Onions sorted after March 15th must be properly disposed of within one week. Trucks transporting onions should be covered to prevent spillage along roadsides.

A civil penalty of up to $10,000 per violation may be enforced under the Plant Pest Act of 2002. There are several options for proper disposal under the rule, including pit burial, feeding, composting, spreading, chopping and shredding. The ISDA publication “Cull Onion Disposal in Idaho” details the various options for proper disposal. The University of Idaho’s “Best Management Practices for Pit Disposal of Cull Onions” (publication CIS 1064) is referenced in the rules and is available through the University of Idaho Extension Service.

Michael Cooper, Agricultural Bureau Chief for the ISDA’s Division of Plant Industries, said the regulations are aimed at reducing the potential for damage to Idaho’s onion crop.

“The larval stage of the onion maggot attacks and destroys portions of the onion bulb, providing an avenue for fungi and bacteria to cause bulbs to rot during storage,” Cooper said. “With consecutive years of wet springs, the insect has been known to destroy 80 percent to 90 percent of the crop. We frequently find the onion maggot in cull onion piles.”

The maggot adult flies emerge in April and May and are attracted to the volatile odors given off by sprouting onions and new seedlings. Each onion maggot can destroy up to two dozen seedlings during its two-week lifespan, so crop damage can be substantial. If not properly disposed of, culls serve as breeding and egg-laying sites for the adult flies.

A copy of the cull onion disposal rules, as well as the publication “Cull Onion Disposal in Idaho” and other ISDA rules, can be obtained from the State of Idaho Homepage at: http://adm.idaho.gov/adminrules/rules/idapa02/0617.pdf

Cooper said that the regulations have been in effect for several years and the program is working well. “We have received excellent cooperation from the onion industry. Let us continue to work together to protect Idaho’s onion industry.”

Iris Yellow Spot Virus

Onion    Treasure Valley - Idaho

Posted on: July 13, 2007 by Jerry Neufeld

Lynn Jensen from the Oregon State University, Malheur County Cooperative Extension Office is reporting that Iris Yellow Spot Virus has been identified in onion fields in the Fruitland/New Plymouth and Ontario, Oregon areas. There are currently no known fungicide treatment options for this virus. The virus is transmitted by onion thrips. Growers should keep their fields as stress free as possible by keeping thrips populations in check and by maintaining good irrigation practices.

Onion Bulb Mites

Onion    Treasure Valley - Idaho

Posted on: April 27, 2007 by Jerry Neufeld

Lynn Jensen, Potato and Onion Specialist with OSU at the Malheur County Extension Office is reporting Bulb Mites have been identified in an onion field in the Adrian, Oregon area. At least some stand reduction has occurred because of the mites.

According to the PNW Insect Management Handbook, Bulb mites are shiny, creamy white, bulbous, and about 1⁄32 inch long. They generally occur in clusters, inhabiting damaged areas under the root plate of onion bulbs or garlic cloves. They have a wide host range, feed on many kinds of bulbs, roots, and tubers, and can infest bulbs in storage or in the field. Bulb mites can survive on decaying vegetation in the field until it is completely decomposed.
Bulb mites damage bulbs by penetrating the outer layer of tissue and allowing rot organisms to gain entry. This pest is most damaging when plant growth is slowed by mild, wet weather. Bulb mites can reduce plant stands, stunt plant growth, and promote rot of bulbs in storage. On seeded onions, they can cut off the radicle before the plant becomes established.

Onion Maggot

Onion    Treasure Valley - Idaho

Posted on: April 27, 2007 by Jerry Neufeld

Lynn Jensen, Potato and Onion Specialist with OSU at the Malheur County Extension Office is reporting an Onion Maggot infestation has been found in an onion field in the Cairo production area near Ontario. Onion maggot larvae attack germinating seedlings, feeding on the developing roots and epicotyl, and can continue to feed on the expanding bulbs during later stages of growth. This results in increased rot in bulbs held in storage.

Carzol Plantback Restrictions

Onion    Treasure Valley - Idaho

Posted on: April 13, 2007 by Jerry Neufeld

The US-EPA has issued updated plantback restrictions on the use of Carzol in Idaho and Oregon. The new restrictions can be accessed by clicking on “Crop Info”, then “Onion” and finally “Carzol Plantback Restrictions”.

onions

Onion    Treasure Valley - Idaho

Posted on: April 6, 2007 by Jerry Neufeld

Dr. Mike Thornton, Superintendent of the U of I’s Southwest Idaho R&E Centers has noticed volunteer onions are beginning to emerge in fields planted to onions during the 2006 season. He goes on to say “volunteer onions have been shown to harbor early season populations of onion thrips and act as a reservoir for Iris Yellow Spot Virus. Destroying volunteer onions as part of a weed control program in rotation crops is a good way to reduce insect and virus pressure.”

Basagran Advisory Notice

Onion    Treasure Valley - Idaho

Posted on: March 15, 2007 by Jerry Neufeld

The Idaho State Department of Agriculture has asked me to post an advisory notice regarding the circulation of a false/misleading label for the use of Basagran to control yellow nutsedge in onions. The advisory notice can be read by clicking on “Crop Info”, then “Onion” and finally “Basagran Advisory Notice".

Iris Yellow Spot Virus

Onion    Treasure Valley - Idaho

Posted on: July 21, 2006 by Jerry Neufeld

Lynn Jensen from the Oregon State University, Malheur County Cooperative Extension Office is reporting that Iris Yellow Spot Virus has been identified in onion fields in the Ontario, Oregon area. There are currently no known fungicide treatment options for this virus. The virus is transmitted by onion thrips. Growers should keep their fields as stress free as possible by keeping thrips populations in check and by maintaining good irrigation practices.

Onion Thrips and Iris Yellow Spot Virus

Onion    Treasure Valley - Idaho

Posted on: June 7, 2006 by Jerry Neufeld

Onion Thrips/Iris Yellow Spot Virus Control Seminars sponsored by the University of Idaho and Oregon State University will be held at the following locations next week.

Monday, June 12 – Ontario, Oregon, OSU Extension office
Wednesday, June 14 – Parma, Idaho, Parma Research and Extension Center classroom
Thursday, June 15 – Weiser, Idaho at the Vendome

Meetings will start at noon and last an hour. Free sack lunches will be provided.

Topics to be covered are the relationship between thrips control and development of IYSV. Additional topics include the section 18 label for Carzol, experience from 2005 research trials, application timing, resistance management, and handler safety.

All growers and distributor field personnel that plan to use this product in 2006 are encouraged to attend this meeting.

Onion Root Maggot

Onion    Treasure Valley - Idaho

Posted on: May 12, 2006 by Steven Reddy

Poor germination and slow emergence of onions has been widespread in Washington County. There are probably several potential causes; however, onion root maggot has been identified and treated in an onion field east of Weiser. Our cool, moist spring has created ideal conditions for onion root maggot damage. Growers might want to take a second look at problem areas to see if onion maggot is involved.

Cull Onions

Onion    Treasure Valley - Idaho

Posted on: February 23, 2006 by Jerry Neufeld

A new publication from the ISDA entitled “Cull Onion Disposal in Idaho” has been posted to the TVPestAlert.net website. The publication can be viewed by clicking on “Crop Info” then “Onion” and finally “Cull Onions 2006.”

Iris Yellow Spot Virus

Onion    Treasure Valley - Oregon

Posted on: July 27, 2005 by Jerry Neufeld

Lynn Jensen from the Oregon State University, Malheur County Cooperative Extension Office is reporting that Iris Yellow Spot Virus has been identified in onion fields in the Treasure Valley area including fields in Weiser, Fruitland, Ontario and Nyssa. There are currently no known fungicide treatment options for this virus. The virus is transmitted by onion thrips. Growers should keep their fields as stress free as possible by keeping thrips populations in check and by maintaining good irrigation practices.

Onion Maggots

Onion    Treasure Valley - Idaho

Posted on: May 4, 2005 by Jerry Neufeld

Lynn Jensen from the Oregon State University, Malheur County Cooperative Extension Office is reporting that onion maggots have been found infesting onion fields in the Weiser, Idaho area. Onion maggot eggs are laid on the soil near the onion plants. Upon emergence, maggot larvae feed on the developing onion roots. Problems are more likely to occur in fields with high amounts of residue.

Onion Bulb Mite

Onion    Treasure Valley - Idaho

Posted on: April 21, 2005 by Jerry Neufeld

Charlie Robinson with Western Farm Service in Parma is reporting that onion bulb mites have been found in onion fields southwest of Caldwell. In one case there is an estimated 30% stand loss. The mites were positively identified by U of I Extension Pathologist Krishna Mohan. Dr. Mohan said that with the wet/cool weather we have been having, a stand loss such as that caused by the mites can be confused with ”damping off.” He warns that if you are experiencing onion stand loss, it may not be “damping off” it may be bulb mites. Positive identification of mites needs to be made by using a microscope to examine either undecayed vegetation from the field or the onions. Fields that have a history of bulb mite problems, or onion fields with undecayed vegetative matter are more prone to these pests. No treatment thresholds exist and there are no in-season treatments available. Preventative soil fumigation treatments can help to control this pest.

Cull Onion Disposal in Idaho

Onion    Treasure Valley - Idaho

Posted on: March 2, 2005 by Jerry Neufeld

Below is a Press Release from Micheal E. Cooper, Chief of the Bureau of Feeds and Plant Services at the Idaho State Department of Agriculture. The Press Release deals with the disposal of cull onions. For additional information on this subject, click on the “Crop Info” button on the left side of the TVPestAlert.net home page. Then click on “Onion” and finally “Cull Onion Memorandum.”


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 25, 2005

DEPARTMENT OF AG REMINDS THE ONION INDUSTRY OF THE CULL ONION DISPOSAL FOR ONION MAGGOT CONTROL


BOISE, Idaho --- We are expecting it to be a big year for cull onions. The market was depressed to the point that many fields were never harvested are there are a lot of onions still in farm and commercial storage. March 15th is the deadline for disposal of cull onion piles in Ada, Canyon, Gem, Payette, Owyhee and Washington Counties, according to rules of the Idaho State Department of Agriculture (ISDA). Mike Cooper, Chief, Bureau of Feeds and Plant Services, Division of Plant Industries, ISDA said the potential for damage to Idaho's onion crop is the basis for the regulations." The larval stage of the onion maggot attacks and destroys portions of the onion bulb providing an avenue for fungi and bacteria to cause bulbs to rot during storage. With consecutive years of wet springs, the insect has been known to destroy 80% to 90% of the crop. We frequently find the onion maggot in cull onion piles."

According to state rules, cull onions – those not useable for human consumption or deemed waste - must be disposed of by March 15th of each year or within one week of sorting after March 15th. Trucks transporting onions should be covered to prevent spillage along roadsides. Such spilled onions create good breeding sites for the onion maggot.

A civil penalty of up to $1,000 per violation has been in effect since 2000. There are also new disposal methods such as dumping, feeding, composting, spreading, chopping and shredding. The University of Idaho “Best Management Practices” for the dumping or pit disposal of culls is referenced in the rules and is available through the University of Idaho Extension Service.

The onion maggot adult flies emerge in April and May and are attracted to the volatile odors given off by sprouting onions and new seedlings. The onion maggot can destroy up t two dozen seedlings during its two week life span, so damage to a field can be substantial. If not properly disposed of, culls serve as breeding and egg-laying sites for the adult flies.

A copy of the cull onion disposal rules, as well as other ISDA rules, can be obtained from the State of Idaho Homepage at:

http://www.state.id.us/adm/adminrules/rules/idapa02/02index.htm.

Double click on the cull onion disposal rules numerical designation of 02.06.17 and download it to your computer. You will need a copy of Acrobat 3.0 or better to read it. See the instructions at the top of that Web page to obtain a free copy of Acrobat.

Cooper said the regulations have been in effect for several years and the program is working well. "We have received excellent cooperation from the onion industry. Let us continue to work together to protect Idaho’s onion industry.

Section 18 approval for Success on onions

Onion    Treasure Valley - Oregon

Posted on: July 1, 2004 by Lynn Jensen

Success has recieved approval for use on onions for thrips control in Oregon (Idaho approval is expected) as a section 18 label.

onion bulb mite

Onion    Treasure Valley - Idaho

Posted on: April 21, 2004 by Jerry Neufeld

Mike Thornton, Superintendent of the U of Idaho Parma Research and Extension Center, is reporting that onion bulb mites are feeding on onion seedlings in Parma area onion fields. Mite pressure is severe enough to damage stands.

Onion Maggot

Onion    Treasure Valley - Oregon

Posted on: April 21, 2004 by Clint Shock

Onion maggot has been identified north of Vale, OR in seedling onion fields.

Onion Bulb MIte

Onion    Treasure Valley - Oregon

Posted on: April 15, 2004 by Mick Warden & Lynn Jensen

Onion Bulb Mite in Fruitland - New Plymouth area is causing some stand loss to new seedling onions.

Malheur Experiment Station Onion Variety Day August 26

Onion    Treasure Valley - Oregon

Posted on: August 8, 2003 by Cedric Shock

YOU ARE INVITED TO THE
Malheur Experiment Station
Onion Variety Day

Presented By the OSU Malheur
Experiment Station

August 26, 2003 from 9AM to 1PM

Complimentary Lunch will be served.


Please reserve lunch by calling Janet Jones
Malheur Experiment Station
595 Onion Ave.
Ontario OR 97914
(541) 889-2174

http://www.cropinfo.net/

Iris Yellow Spot Virus found in Nyssa, Oregon Slope

Onion    Treasure Valley - Oregon

Posted on: July 31, 2003 by Lynn Jensen

The Iris Yellow Spot Virus has been identified on onion fields in the Nyssa and Oregon Slope areas of the Treasure Valley. Keep onions well watered and free of stress.

Iris Yellow Spot Virus in Onions

Onion    All Locations

Posted on: July 23, 2002 by Brad Geary

Iris Yellow Spot Virus symptoms are becoming very prevelant in onion fields where the symptoms were not obvious a couple of weeks ago. Once the virus is in the plant, minimize damage by reducing stress - particularly water stress. Fungicides will not control viral pathogens, so do not apply fungicides unless you are targeting a fungal pathogen.

Virus disease in onions

Onion    All Locations

Posted on: July 26, 2001 by Lynn Jensen, Brad Geary, Vincent Bijman

Iris yellow spot virus has been positively identified on onions in several locations of the Treasure Valley. These sites include the Oregon Slope area and the Nyssa area. In addition, plants with similar symptoms have been seen in the Homedale/Marsing and Parma areas.
Symptoms include straw colored chlorotic ring spots on leaves, followed by deterioration of the leaf. In Israel the disease has led to a rapid die of leaf tissue, causing the field to look like a straw field. Their name for the disease is "straw bleaching". The disease is known to be transmitted by onion thrips, but thus far Western Flower thrips have not been associated with the disease.
The disease has probably been here for several years, but not identifyed until now. A number fields died eary last year, probably due to the virus. It has been identifyed in both bulb and seed crops.
Fungicides are not effective. Probably most of the plant infection has already occured. More information will be sent out as it becomes available.

New, unidentified insect appears to be feeding on seedling o

Onion    none

Posted on: May 15, 2001 by Lynn Jensen

An unidentified insect (class hemiptera or true bug class) appears to be feeding on young onion plants, causing stipling of the leaves.
The insect has been sent to Corvallis for identification. There may be times when treatment is necessary, when the onions are small. Will submit more information when it becomes available.

New, unidentified insect appears to be feeding on seedling o

Onion    none

Posted on: May 15, 2001 by Lynn Jensen

An unidentified insect (class hemiptera or true bug class) appears to be feeding on young onion plants, causing stipling of the leaves.
The insect has been sent to Corvallis for identification. There may be times when treatment is necessary, when the onions are small. Will submit more information when it becomes available.

Bulb Mites on onions

Onion    none

Posted on: May 1, 2001 by Greg Lierman - Simplot

Their has been a field of onions near the Cairo area that
has a problem with onion bulb mites. If growers have
fields with thin stands, they may want to have their
their fields checked.

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