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IPM Field Dat at UI Extension Parma Research & Extension Center

All Crops    Treasure Valley, Treasure Valley - Idaho, Magic Valley

Posted on: July 18, 2023 by Brad Stokes

Join University of Idaho Extension Specialists and Researchers on Thursday August 17, 2023 for IPM Field Day at Parma with registration beginning at 7:15 a.m. and Field Tour starting promptly at 8:00 a.m. until 10:30 a.m.  

Southern / Southeastern Cereals Field Days coming up!

All Crops    Treasure Valley, Treasure Valley - Idaho, Eastern Idaho, Magic Valley

CEREALS ARE NOT A PEST!

Posted on: July 7, 2023 by Juliet Marshall

That's the name of our field days this year? Yes, it's true - come learn about the wheat and barley varieties that available to our area producers, cropping systems, fertility management and yes, those dang pests! What can be more fun that talking about smut? (Dwarf, loose, flag and cover your smut!) Scalds? Head blight?

Representatives from private industry, commissions and University of Idaho will be there, so hope to see you at one of the events!

Western Cherry Fruit Fly (Rhagoletis indifferens) Detected In Canyon and Gem Counties

Cherry    Treasure Valley, Treasure Valley - Idaho

Western Cherry Fruit Fly (Rhagoletis indifferens)

Posted on: June 23, 2023 by Brad Stokes

Tree Fruits    Treasure Valley

Western Cherry Fruit Fly (Rhagoletis indifferens)

 

Idaho State Department of Agriculture 

 

On June 21st the first 2023 Western Cherry Fruit Fly was captured in an Idaho State Department of Agriculture WCFF trap was reported from Canyon and Gem County. With traps being placed in north Marsing and south Emmett cherry trees. 

Historically we expect to find WCFF in Gem County traps about a week after the first one is found in Canyon County, this year they arrived on the same week.

Thinning Fruits - Cultural Practices

Tree Fruits    Treasure Valley, Treasure Valley - Idaho, Eastern Idaho, Magic Valley

Posted on: June 21, 2023 by Brad Stokes

2023 Fruit Thinning – June 21, 2023


Cultural Alert

Fruits which are crowded on limbs should be thinned. Apples, pears, Asian pears, apricots, plums, and peaches all respond positively to thinning. Cherries and nut trees are usually not thinned. Thinning fruit will 1) increase fruit size, 2) improve the trees productivity in the year to come, and 3) reduce limb breakage as fruits begin to size. Too many fruits on a tree translates into small fruit that is often of poor quality.

General rules for thinning: 1) the earlier the better, 2) remove smaller fruits and leave the larger ones, 3) remove fruits with disease spots, hail damage, or other defects, 4) aim for even spacing. 

General guidelines by fruit – see links below for additional detail. 

Apples & pears:  Almost always need thinning. Should be thinned to one fruit per spur with a good spacing of one fruit per 6” of branch. Asian pears spaced at one fruit per 6-8” of branch. Be careful not to break off spurs while thinning – spurs produce flowers and fruit for many years if not broken. Recommend to thin apples within 40 days of full bloom and pears within 60 days of full bloom. 

Peaches & nectarines: Should be spaced at one fruit per 6-8” of branch. Fruits that are joined should be removed. Recommend to thin peaches about 70 days past full bloom.

Plums: Should be thinned to have spacing at 6” between fruit along the branch.

Apricots: If tree experiences heavy fruit set thin fruit spaced to 3” along branch. 

Trees will exhibit “June Drop” which is when the tree will naturally drop fruit. Some prefer to wait until this event happens to thin, however there are great advantages to thinning early. More details can be found in the links below.

 

https://extension.wsu.edu/maritimefruit/fruit-thinning-for-high-quality/

http://homeorchard.ucdavis.edu/8047.pdf or attach as PDF from complete reference library

 

 

Other reference:

https://extension.oregonstate.edu/gardening/berries-fruit/fruit-thinning

Importance of scouting for late blight in potato

Potato    Treasure Valley, Treasure Valley - Idaho, Magic Valley

Late blight (potato)

Posted on: June 21, 2023 by Brad Stokes

Importance of scouting for late blight in potato

 

Kasia Duellman, Jeff Miller, Nora Olsen, Mike Thornton, Phill Wharton and James Woodhall

 

It has been several years since we have had an outbreak of late blight in Idaho.  It is easy to forget that late blight can be a threat in this region given all the other issues that growers have to deal with during the growing season.  However, history tells us that the most widespread late blight outbreaks have been associated with two factors: 1) presence of volunteer potatoes from the previous crop and/or planting of seed potatoes sourced from regions where late blight frequently occurs, and 2) frequent rain events throughout the growing season.

 

We want to stress that late blight has not been found in Idaho so far this year.  However, the unseasonably wet and moderate weather we’ve had recently has created conditions for potential late blight outbreaks in many locations.  For example, in western Idaho where the crop is just closing the rows, we have had several weeks of intermittent showers as shown by records from the Parma Agrimet site.

 

 

 

 

Although many areas of Idaho experienced a colder than normal winter, higher snow falls across the Snake River Valley mean that the soil temperatures in many areas remained above freezing.  The University of Idaho Volunteer Survival Model (https://cropalerts.org/volunteer-survival/), shows the risk of volunteer potato survival this year was high in most areas in southern Idaho.  Infected volunteer potatoes, cull piles and seed tubers along with the recent wet weather conditions can all potentially contribute to the development of a late blight this year.  As such, it would be prudent to plan ahead for the management of any potential late blight outbreaks.

 

Effective management of late blight requires the implementation of an integrated disease management approach, including strict sanitation practices (e.g. management of cull piles), good irrigation management, and the proper timing and application of effective fungicides.  All these practices together can reduce the chances of a late blight outbreak.  

 

Scouting is the first line of defense against late blight.  Field scouting should begin after emergence when the first plants are 4 to 6 inches tall. In potato fields after plants close across the rows, look for late blight in the lower portions of the plant where the foliage stays wet longer. Scouting should be concentrated in areas of the field most likely to remain wet for the longest period of time, such as the center tower of pivot irrigation system, irrigation overlaps, and areas missed by fungicide applicators such as the edges of fields.  Low spots where soil moisture is highest and parts of the field shaded by windbreaks are examples of areas where scouting should be intensified.  The symptoms of late blight (see pictures at the end of this article) can be confused with other diseases and physiological disorders.  If you find plants displaying symptoms of late blight, we recommend you take them to a local expert than can confirm the diagnosis.

 

Scouting allows growers to make informed disease and pest management decisions and provides early detection of other problems that may be present in the field, such as nutrient deficiency or herbicide injury.  By using information collected by scouts, growers can time fungicide applications for optimal effectiveness.  This is especially important for the control of late blight as fungicides are most effective when applied to foliage before infection occurs or when the disease is in its very earliest stages of development and no symptoms are visible.  In the irrigated fields of southern Idaho, late blight can be very difficult to manage once infections become established as the humid microclimate within the canopy favors further disease development after irrigation.

 

There are a wide range of fungicides labeled for use against potato late blight.  Each fungicide is different and will have specific conditions for use listed on the label with additional details regarding application rates, re-entry intervals and total product amounts that can be applied in a season.  Some may even include information on how to minimize the risk of fungicide resistance developing.  Fungicides that are effective for the control of late blight tend to have one of three modes of action: germination inhibition (they prevent germination of spores and thus plant infection), inhibiting mycelial growth (they block pathogen colonization of the plant cells), anti-sporulation activity (they prevent the pathogen from sporulating and thus limit spread of the disease).  For more information on properties of fungicides registered for use in potatoes go to the following link: https://cropalerts.org/2020/04/24/potato-late-blight-control-recommendations-for-southern-idaho-in-2020/.

 

In years when late blight has been confirmed in Idaho it has usually appeared after mid-July.  In the last wide scale outbreak that occurred in SE Idaho, late blight was first reported in Bingham County on July 10.  On that date, the high temperature recorded at Aberdeen R&E Center was 67oF and it had been a wet June with daily rainfall totals as high as 0.5 in. (see below). These are ideal disease conditions.  If you suspect late blight please contact your local county UI Extension office or Kasia Duellman, Jeff Miller, Nora Olsen, Mike Thornton, Phill Wharton or James Woodhall. 

 

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To provide additional information on the threat of late blight the University of Idaho operates a spore trapping network in cooperation with the Idaho Potato Commission.  Weekly updates from this network will be on the IPM website (https://idahopestmonitoring.org) starting the week of July 3rd

Master Gardeners Confirm Squash Bugs are Active!

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley, Treasure Valley - Idaho

Squash Bug (Anasa tristis)

Posted on: June 20, 2023 by Brad Stokes

2023 Squash Bug – June 20, 2023
Squash Bug (Anasa tristis) 

Squash bugs have been reported in Canyon County by an Idaho Master Gardener. It is time to check the underside of cucurbit (pumpkins and squash are the most attractive) leaves for the bronze-colored egg clusters. In addition, monitor plants for nymphs, adults and plants wilting due to feeding injury. 

MANAGEMENT

Wooden boards, shingles, or heavy cardboard can be placed on the ground next to the host plant. Squash bugs tend to move under the board/object at night. In the morning, turn the object over and destroy the pest.

Hand-pick and destroy adults, nymphs or egg clusters. Other options include rolled duct tape around fingers to pull off egg clusters, cutting off the egg part of the leaf or applying petroleum jelly directly to the eggs. Increased success is achieved when started early in the season and done every 2 to 3 days to keep numbers low.

Cultural methods include sanitation, plating squash varieties that are more tolerant of squash bug feeding, crop rotation and time of planting. 

Additional control methods can be found in the linked publications:

https://pnwhandbooks.org/insect/vegetable/vegetable-pests/common-vegetable/vegetable-crop-squash-bug

https://extension.usu.edu/pests/ipm/notes_ag/veg-squashbug

http://ipm.ucanr.edu/PMG/PESTNOTES/pn74144.html


UI Extension Parma Field Day Tour

All Crops    Treasure Valley, Treasure Valley - Idaho, Magic Valley

Field Tour - Parma

Posted on: June 13, 2023 by Brad Stokes

UI Extension Parma Research and Extension Center Agricultural Field Day is next Wednesday June 21st 2023 beginning at 8:00 a.m. with registration of participants.  The Field tour located at the UI Parma Research & Extension Center (29603 U of I Ln, Parma, ID 83660) will last until 11:15 a.m. with 2 CEU credits from Oregon Department of Agriculture and Certified Crop Assistants, 1 CEU credit from Idaho State Department of Agriculture.  No need to pre-register and this is a FREE event.  For further information contact James Woodhall, Olga Walsh or Brad Stokes.  

2023 Peach Tree Borer

All Crops    Treasure Valley, Treasure Valley - Idaho

Posted on: June 7, 2023 by Ruth Givens

Peachtree bores are predicted to emerge between June 15 and July 18. This pest is a concern for stone fruits: Peach, nectarine, apricot, cherry, and plum. Key symptoms of peachtree borer infestation is the presence of sawdust and frass mixed with the gummy substance near the base of the trunk. Prevention is the best method of control.

Larvae injure the fruit tree primarily by burrowing into the tree trunks just at or below the soil line but may enter trunk up to 12” above the soil line. Larvae feed in the cambium beneath the bark girdling the tree.

Chemical Control, Home Use: For orchards less than 1 acre, or for home yard trees, preventative trunk sprays are the primary control. Apply the first application immediately after first trap catch and repeat application based on product label guidelines. Follow the required pre-harvest interval (time between last application and allowed harvest of fruit) of insecticide product. Apply insecticide as a bark drench at a rate of 1⁄2 to 1 gallon of spray mix per tree. Thoroughly cover the lower 12 inches of trunk and soak the ground at the base of tree. Do not allow the sprays to contact fruit. For chemical option review the PNW handbook link below.

Chemical Control, Commercial: Reference the PNW handbook link below to see spring and summer application recommendations.

Cultural Control: Larvae inside the trunks can be killed by inserting a wire into entry holes. Kill larvae in the late summer and fall before they spend the winter and inflict their most extensive feeding damage the following spring. Keep base of tree free of vegetation – heat and dryness reduce the survival of eggs and larvae.

The following links have information about the life cycle of peachtree borer and control methods.

https://pnwhandbooks.org/insect/tree-fruit/peach-nectarine/peach-nectarine-peachtree-borer

https://extension.colostate.edu/topic-areas/insects/peach-tree-borer-5-566/

https://digitalcommons.usu.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1651&context=extension_curall

2023 Peach Twig Borer

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley, Treasure Valley - Idaho

2023 Peach Twig Borer

Posted on: May 31, 2023 by Ruth Givens

It is time for management of the peach twig borer, based on degree days. This pest is a concern for those growing peach, nectarine, apricot, plum and prune. Adult moths are 0.3 – 0.5 inches long, with light and dark gray mottled wings. Scales on the front of head cause the head to appear pointed. The larva is a caterpillar, about 0.5 inch long, with a dark brown head and distinctive, alternating light and dark bands on the body 

Larvae injure fruit trees by feeding on the buds and twigs early in the season, then the larvae bore into the shoots, causing a characteristic "flagging" or wilting of the new growth. Later generations of larvae feed within shoots or even on the fruit itself. Flagging of twigs indicates an infestation. 

For chemical control management options review the PNW Handbook link below to select a control option appropriate for operation. Apply according to label directions. 

For cultural controls prune out shoot strikes in the late spring and early summer as soon as they are detected to prevent these larvae from completing development and contributing to summer generations of the pest. If old shoot strikes are observed during pruning in late winter to early spring, plan to apply early season controls. Old strikes hold onto the dead leaves and appear as “flagged” terminals. 


https://pnwhandbooks.org/insect/tree-fruit/peach-nectarine/peach-nectarine-peach-twig-borer 


https://climate.usu.edu//includes/pestFactSheets/Peach-Twig-Borer.pdf 

ISDA Spanish Pesticide Applicator Pre-License Training & Exam

All Crops    Treasure Valley, Treasure Valley - Idaho

Pesticide Training ISDA

Posted on: May 31, 2023 by Brad Stokes

ISDA will be hosting a Pre-License Training and Exam sessions in Spanish on June 6th & 7th at the Idaho Fish and Game Southwest Regional Office (15950 N Gate Blvd, Nampa ID 84687).  See flyer for details and for registration.  

2023 Apple-Codling Moth, First Generation- Home & Landscape

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley, Treasure Valley - Idaho

Apple-Codling Moth

Posted on: May 15, 2023 by Ruth Givens

Pest: Codling Moth Cydia pomonella

Currently the degree day model is reporting 206 degree days (DD) as of May 18. There are different management options to consider when controlling this pest. 

Option A: Starting at 200 DD, forecasted to be May 17, apply a mixture of water and horticultural oil at 1% concentration to smother egg infestation. Follow with first application of insecticide at 350 DD. Reapply insecticides based on the protection interval stated on the label.

Option B: Starting at 220-250 DD, forecasted to be May 18, apply insecticides that target newly hatched larvae. Reapply insecticides based on the protection interval stated on the label.

Reference publication links to view insecticide options for commercial or residential sites. Commercial products with the active ingredients including; spinetoram, acetamiprid, chlorantraniliprole, etc. Residential products with active ingredients including; lambda-cyhalothrin (restricted use pesticide), or esfenvalerate and Spinosad (general-use pesticides). Non-spray option is to bag the fruit.

This pest needs prevention all season long for clean fruit.

https://pnwhandbooks.org/insect/tree-fruit/apple/apple-codling-moth

https://digitalcommons.usu.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1879&context=extension_curall

https://extension.colostate.edu/topic-areas/insects/codling-moth-control-in-home-plantings-5-613/

2023 Apple-Codling Moth, First Generation

All Crops    Treasure Valley, Treasure Valley - Idaho

Posted on: May 15, 2023 by Ruth Givens

Pest: Codling Moth Cydia pomonella

Currently the degree day model is reporting 206 degree days (DD) as of May 18. There are different management options to consider when controlling this pest. 

Option A: Starting at 200 DD, forecasted to be May 17, apply a mixture of water and horticultural oil at 1% concentration to smother egg infestation. Follow with first application of insecticide at 350 DD. Reapply insecticides based on the protection interval stated on the label.

Option B: Starting at 220-250 DD, forecasted to be May 18, apply insecticides that target newly hatched larvae. Reapply insecticides based on the protection interval stated on the label.

Reference publication links to view insecticide options for commercial or residential sites. Commercial products with the active ingredients including; spinetoram, acetamiprid, chlorantraniliprole, etc. Residential products with active ingredients including; lambda-cyhalothrin (restricted use pesticide), or esfenvalerate and Spinosad (general-use pesticides). Non-spray option is to bag the fruit.

This pest needs prevention all season long for clean fruit.

https://pnwhandbooks.org/insect/tree-fruit/apple/apple-codling-moth

https://digitalcommons.usu.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1879&context=extension_curall

https://extension.colostate.edu/topic-areas/insects/codling-moth-control-in-home-plantings-5-613/

Billbugs In Lawngrasses (Turf)

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley, Treasure Valley - Idaho

Billbugs

Posted on: May 15, 2023 by Brad Stokes

The term grub is used to designate the larvae of lawn damaging insects, typically the larvae of beetles. In Idaho, the most common and destructive is the billbug. There are four species of billbugs in Idaho: Bluegrass, Rocky Mountain, Phoenix and Hunting.

Current degree day modeling indicates that 30% of adult billbugs are present with a forecasted 50% adult billbug activity on May 30th. If you commonly experience billbug damage, your neighborhood experiences billbug damage, or you have Kentucky Bluegrass this timeframe can be used to apply a systemic insecticide for controlling billbugs if you desire.

Non-chemical control methods include selecting turf varieties of tall fescue, fine fescue and perennial ryegrass. Select endophytic cultivar(s) in which a fungus produces a compound toxic to grubs. 

Systemic insecticide control is most effective for billbug infestations. Choose a product that lists one of the following active ingredients: chlorantraniliprole, clothianidan, imidacloprid or thiamethoxam. Follow label instructions to ensure safety and success.

https://www.uidaho.edu/-/media/UIdaho-Responsive/Files/Extension/publications/cis/cis1204.pdf?la=en

https://digitalcommons.usu.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1860&context=extension_curall

https://extension.colostate.edu/topic-areas/insects/billbugs-and-white-grubs-5-516/

2023 Fire Blight

Apple    Treasure Valley, Treasure Valley - Idaho

Fire Blight

Posted on: May 3, 2023 by Ruth Givens

Fire blight is a bacterial plant disease that causes infections through open flowers on apple and pear (Rosaceae family).  Infections occur during warm, wet days. A model is used to predict fire blight risk.

Based on the model, there is a very high potential for infection on open blossoms April 27 – early June. Fire blight is a disease that needs moisture (rain, dew) to cause infection. Higher upcoming temperatures increase the chance for infection with precipitation or dew moisture. Protect the blossoms of young trees and trees that had fire blight last year.

Monitor trees closely starting two weeks after bloom and prune out new infections immediately during dry conditions. 

Refer to publications below for additional information for your application.  

https://pnwhandbooks.org/plantdisease/host-disease/pear-pyrus-spp-fire-blight

https://pnwhandbooks.org/plantdisease/host-disease/apple-malus-spp-fire-blight

http://treefruit.wsu.edu/crop-protection/disease-management/fire-blight/

https://utahpests.usu.edu/ipm/notes_ag/fruit-fire-blight

2023 Delayed-Dormant Oil Application

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley, Treasure Valley - Idaho

2023 Delayed- Dormant Oil Application

Posted on: March 17, 2023 by Ruth Givens

In the coming weeks areas across the Treasure Valley could reach temperatures desirable for applying a delayed-dormant oil spray. The use of horticultural oil as a delayed-dormant spray can target many insect pests at a time when beneficial insects are not yet active. Use of the term “delayed-dormant” indicates that the oil should be applied after bud swell. This timeframe coincides with the increasing activity of the overwintering insect stages, such as aphid eggs, scale nymphs, and peach twig borer larvae.

The two factors of temperature and bud stage must correspond before application of horticultural oil is made.

TEMPERATURE: Only apply oil if temperatures remain above freezing (ideal is above 40°F) for 24 hours after application and on a clear, non-windy day in the 50 to 70°F temperature range. 

BUD STAGE: The window of application extends from bud swell to when the leaves just start emerging. The last pointyou can safely apply oil based on fruit tree crop are:

Apple: Half-inch green, but ideal application at green tip stage. 

Pear: Cluster bud. 

Cherry: White bud. 

Peach/nectarine: pre-bloom. 

Refer to the Critical Temperatures for Frost Damage on Fruit Trees

Oil should be applied at a rate of 2% (5 Tbs in 1 gallon water) and thoroughly cover all cracks and crevices. 

If aphids and scale have been a serious problem in previous years an insecticide could be added, see Chemical Control of Landscape Pests for chemical products available by pest. Read and follow label instructions for preparation and application.

If fire blight was an issue in the previous year add in a copper product for fire blight. 

If you have additional questions, contact your local UI Extension office https://www.uidaho.edu/extension/directory/counties  

Additional Resource:

 Insect Control: Horticultural Oils, Colorado State University [https://extension.colostate.edu/topic-areas/insects/insect-control-horticultural-oils-5-569/]

2023 Pruning Deciduous Trees & Shrubs

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley, Treasure Valley - Idaho

Tree & Shrub Pruning

Posted on: March 17, 2023 by Ruth Givens

The dormant season is a great time to prune deciduous trees (landscape & fruit) and shrubs. As a general guide remove no more than one-third of the tree when pruning. Below are a few resources on how to prune. 

·       Training Young Shade Trees, University of Idaho

·       Pruning Deciduous Shade Trees, University of Arizona  

·       Pruning Deciduous Trees, University of New Hampshire 

·       Deciduous Fruit Tree Pruning Videos, University of Arizona (https://extension.arizona.edu/deciduous-fruit-tree-pruning-videos)

·       How to Prune Trees Video, Colorado State University 

Prune shrub species which grow on the current season’s growth during the dormant period, usually late winter early spring. A few examples of flowering shrubs in this grouping including butterfly bush, heather, heavenly bamboo, hydrangea, shrubby roses and rose of sharon. Reference the third link for more information. 

For shrub species which form buds on last season’s growth prune these species within about two months after the flowers fade. On these species, flower buds form in late summer and early fall. Winter pruning decreases the number of flowers the following spring as branches containing flower buds are removed. A few examples of flowering shrubs in this grouping include azaleas, lilac, magnolia, mockorange, serviceberry, and witchhazel. Reference Pruning Ornamental Trees & Shrubs, from Purdue University. (https://www.extension.purdue.edu/extmedia/HO/HO-4-W.pdf)

For most areas of Idaho, plants that bloom before June 1 formed the flowers the previous year on old wood. Those that bloom after June 1 form flowers on new growth. Keep in mind that this is rough guideline.

The City of Nampa Parks & Forestry Department will offer tree pruning classes. See the attached file for more details. 

If you have additional questions, contact your local University of Idaho Extension office. To search by county visit https://www.uidaho.edu/extension/directory/counties

Additional Resource 

PNW 400 Training & Pruning Your Home Orchard – 

https://extension.oregonstate.edu/pub/pnw-400


Ornamental Pesticide Applicators Pre-License Training

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley, Treasure Valley - Idaho

Pesticide Pre-license Training

Posted on: January 5, 2023 by Ruth Givens

The University of Idaho (UI) Extension Pesticide Safety Education Program (PSEP) will be offering pre-license training during the 2023 Idaho Horticulture Expo in Boise. This training will be in-person with a two-day agenda. Focus will be on the following categories: Ornamental Insecticide (OI), Ornamental Herbicide (OH), General Pest (GP), and Core (CO). 

Registration includes access to online modules and study materials housed on the National Extension Foundation website. These materials prepare students for the 2-day class and the statewide exams. ALL materials will be available to each registered student with continued access until three weeks after the training. 

January 19 – 20, 2023, daily at 9am – 4pm (MST)

Boise Centre, 850 W Front St., Boise 83702

The cost is $75 per student. To register, visit our website https://www.uidaho.edu/extension/ipm/pesticide.

For more information, contact UI Extension Sr. Instructor, Kimberly Tate at (208) 364-4581 or email ktate@uidaho.edu

Note: We will be offering two prelicense hybrid courses this spring; one in March and the other in April. More information will be available in February.

2022 Pulse Crop Survey

Dry Beans    Treasure Valley, Treasure Valley - Idaho, Eastern Idaho, Magic Valley

2022 Pulse Crop Survey

Posted on: December 8, 2022 by Ruth Givens & Ronda Hirnyck

The Pulse Crop Survey is an annual survey of pulse crop growers and consultants about pulse crop diseases and their management, conducted by Montana State University. Through this survey we aim to understand which resources pulse growers and consultants seek out for information, which diseases challenge pulse crop production, which integrated pest management practices are implemented, and how effective they are perceived to be. 

Please consider participating in this survey. Your participation in this survey will help us identify research needs and resources needed to support economic and sustainable pulse crop production in the Northern Great Plains and Pacific Northwest. Your participation in this survey is entirely voluntary and anonymous. This survey should only take 10 minutes of your time.

You can access the survey by clicking on the following weblink: https://bit.ly/Pulses2023 

PNW PestAlert Landscape & Garden Survey

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley, Treasure Valley - Idaho

Home Garden & Landscape Survey

Posted on: November 21, 2022 by Ruth Givens

Ruth Givens from the University of Idaho Extension, Canyon County is conducting a research study. The purpose of the research is to evaluate the effectiveness of the PNW Pest Alert Network with respect to Landscape & Garden. You are being asked to participate in this study because you are a subscriber to the landscape and garden alerts.

Your participation will involve completing a voluntary survey which will provide feedback to the principal investigator. The survey should take about 3 minutes to complete. The survey includes questions such as indicate how you have used the information in the past year? How did you access the PNW Pest Alert Network alerts? How useful were the landscape and garden alerts? Your involvement in the study is voluntary, and you may choose not to participate. You can refuse to answer any of the questions at any time. There are no names or identifying information associated with your responses. There are no known risks in this study, but some individuals may experience discomfort or loss of privacy when answering questions. Data will be housed on a password protected server and deleted upon completion of the study.

The findings from this project will provide information on providing better outreach programming to control landscape and garden pests. If published, results will be presented in summary form only.

Special Incentive: Surveys completed by December 11 will be entered into a drawing for one of three $75 certificates to Texas Roadhouse.  Three lucky winners will be announced on the website and the gift cards will be sent out later in December.

If you have any questions about this research project, please feel free to call Ruth Givens at 208-459-6003. By submitting this survey, you certify that you are at least 18 years of age and agree to participate in the above described research study.

Start Survey HERE.


Fall Control for Coryneum Blight & Peach Leaf Curl

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley, Treasure Valley - Idaho

Coryneum Blight & Peach Leaf Curl

Posted on: October 28, 2022 by Ruth Givens

Coryneum blight (Thyrostroma carpophilum) & Peach leaf curl (Taphrina deformans)

Coryneum blight or commonly known as shothole disease which is caused by fungus Thyrostroma carpophilum. Trees which have been affected develop small, round, tan-to-purpleish spots which then dry and fall out of the leaf producing a shothole effect. Most cultivars of peach, nectarine, apricot, and almond are very susceptible while cherry and plum are less susceptible. In addition, ornamental plant species can show damage. Beyond the leaf, symptoms can also be seen on the current season and 1-year old fruiting wood. Infections consist of round, reddish spots which are slightly sunken.

Chemical control will occur at 50% leaf drop in late autumn by spraying with a copper-based fungicide, chlorothalonil, or Bordeaux mixture. Follow the label instructions for rate and application procedure. Prune out affected twigs when practical. Culturally control shothole disease by not allowing irrigation sprinklers to wet the tree foliage, select cultivars which are disease resistant when available, and remove and dispose of affected foliage and twigs. 

Peach leaf curl caused by fungus Taphrina deformans and is specific to peaches and nectarines. Trees that are infected will have leaves that are distorted or curl, appear blistered, and develop a yellow or red color.   

Control can be achieved by a single fungicide application in the fall after 90% of the leaves have fallen. Chemicals used for control are copper products or chlorothalonil. Follow the label instructions for rate and application procedure. Homeowners should also remove and dispose of infected leaves that have fallen to the ground, to remove as much inoculum as possible. Resistant varieties can be selected for additional cultural control.

Link:

Peach Leaf 

PNW Handbook: https://pnwhandbooks.org/plantdisease/host-disease/peach-prunus-persica-leaf-curl

USU: https://digitalcommons.usu.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1736&context=extension_curall

Shothole

PNW Handbook: https://pnwhandbooks.org/plantdisease/host-disease/peach-prunus-persica-shothole

UC IPM: http://ipm.ucanr.edu/PMG/GARDEN/FRUIT/DISEASE/shothole.html

2022 Fall Lawn Fertilization & Care

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley, Treasure Valley - Idaho, Northern Idaho

2022 Fall Lawn Fertilization & Care

Posted on: September 16, 2022 by Ruth Givens

University of Idaho turf specialists recommended splitting the application of lawn fertilization into three (3) applications; early May, early September, and late October/November. Review the first reference below to identify fertilization application amounts using a soil test result or the second reference for general recommendations for southern Idaho. Apply according to label directions.

If your lawn is suffering from soil compaction or development of a thick thatch layer fall is the optimal time to core aerate.  For more information on core aeration review Lawn Aeration.

Fall is a great time to control perennial weeds in the landscape if opting to use herbicides. Perennials will begin storing carbohydrates in the roots promoting herbicides to be drawn deeper into the root system and allowing for better control.

If there are additional questions on lawn care or weed management reach out to a local University of Idaho Extension office.

References:

Using Soil Test for Garden Fertilization

https://drive.google.com/file/d/16svAaPIqRcsN8VyGMc_p5SMoOO-hImv8/view

Southern Idaho Lawns

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1EcuP1OErzgRMMHN8l4fugN0VEXkLI-gv/view

Lawn Aeration

https://planttalk.colostate.edu/topics/lawns/1505-lawn-aeration/

Find University of Idaho Extension

https://www.uidaho.edu/extension/directory/counties

2022 Reduce Watering Frequency During Fall

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley, Treasure Valley - Idaho, Northern Idaho

Reduced Watering

Posted on: September 9, 2022 by Ruth Givens

The days are shortening, and evening temperatures are cooling. Now is the time to adjust the frequency between irrigation days for the landscape and garden.

Lawn irrigation systems can be set to increase the number of days between irrigation based on soil texture. Adjusting the frequency of watering versus the run time allows for replenishment of the water holding capacity and usable water in the soil profile. Review reference links one and two below for greater explanation. This deep and infrequent method encourages a deeper root growth of plants.

A reminder to deep water trees and shrubs prior to shutoff of irrigation water.

References:

Watering Home Lawns and Landscape, University of Idaho

https://www.extension.uidaho.edu/publishing/pdf/CIS/CIS1098.pdf

Watering Home Lawns: How Much and How Often, University of Idaho

https://www.extension.uidaho.edu/publishing/pdf/CIS/CIS1157.pdf

2022 Apple Codling Moth, Third Generation

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley, Treasure Valley - Idaho, Northern Idaho

Apple Codling Moth

Posted on: August 22, 2022 by Ruth Givens

The third generation of codling moth egg hatch is forecasted to begin August 24. Current degree day models indicate 2096 DD as of August 22. Third generation egg hatch begins at 2160-2200 DD.

Continue to keep fruit protected through September 15. Protection of fruit can stop after this time even if fruit has not been harvested. By mid-September there is not enough day length to signal eggs on the fruit to hatch.

Follow label directions for harvest and post-harvest requirements.

Reference Materials:

https://pnwhandbooks.org/insect/tree-fruit/apple/apple-codling-moth

https://digitalcommons.usu.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1879&context=extension_curall

https://extension.colostate.edu/topic-areas/insects/codling-moth-control-in-home-plantings-5-613/

2022 Blossom End Rot

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley, Treasure Valley - Idaho, Northern Idaho

Blossom End Rot

Posted on: August 8, 2022 by Ruth Givens

Blossom-end rot is showing up on tomato plants. Pepper, eggplant, squash, and watermelon can also be affected.

Blossom-end rot is a physiological disorder due to a shortage of calcium in young fruit. Blossom-end rot often occurs when soil moisture fluctuates as water stress interferes with calcium uptake in the plant.  Most Treasure Valley garden soils have enough calcium and additions are not recommended. Refer to soil test results.

Cultural control practices: Use infrequent deep irrigation to keep the soil uniformly moist and avoid water stress or fluctuating soil moisture. Organic mulch can be used to prevent wide fluctuations in soil moisture. Avoid over fertilizing and hoeing or cultivating near the roots.

https://utahpests.usu.edu/ipm/notes_ag/veg-blossom-end-rot

https://pnwhandbooks.org/plantdisease/host-disease/tomato-solanum-lycopersicum-blossom-end-rot

https://extension.usu.edu/vegetableguide/tomato-pepper-eggplant/blossom-end-rot

2022 Peach Twig Borer, Second Generation

All Crops    Treasure Valley, Treasure Valley - Idaho, Northern Idaho

Posted on: July 27, 2022 by Ruth Givens

The second generation of peach twig borer will has begun egg hatch. Current degree day models indicate 1217 as of July 27. Second generation cover sprays begin at 1200 DD. First cover sprays for second generation should be applied now.

For management control options review the PNW Handbook link below to select a control option appropriate for the operation. Apply according to label directions.

https://pnwhandbooks.org/insect/tree-fruit/peach-nectarine/peach-nectarine-peach-twig-borer

https://climate.usu.edu//includes/pestFactSheets/Peach-Twig-Borer.pdf

https://utahpests.usu.edu/slideshows/ppt/05sh-insects-ptbcontrol.pdf

2022 Apple Codling Moth, Second Generation

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley, Treasure Valley - Idaho, Northern Idaho

Posted on: July 15, 2022 by Ruth Givens

The second generation of codling moth will begin egg hatch this week. Current degree day models indicate 1078 DD as of July 15. Beginning egg hatch begins at 1100 DD, currently forecasted for July 16.

Rotate among insecticide classes between generations to prevent development of insecticide resistance. Reference publication links to view insecticide options for commercial or residential sites. Commercial products with the active ingredients including; spinetoram, acetamiprid, chlorantraniliprole, etc. Residential products with active ingredients including; lambda-cyhalothrin (restricted use pesticide), or esfenvalerate and Spinosad (general-use pesticides). Non-spray option is to bag the fruit.

This pest needs prevention all season long for clean fruit.

 

https://pnwhandbooks.org/insect/tree-fruit/apple/apple-codling-moth

https://digitalcommons.usu.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1879&context=extension_curall

https://extension.colostate.edu/topic-areas/insects/codling-moth-control-in-home-plantings-5-613/

2022 Turfgrass Mowing Height & Watering

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley, Treasure Valley - Idaho, Northern Idaho

Turfgrass Mowing Height & Watering

Posted on: July 6, 2022 by Ruth Givens

MOWING

The weather is warming and now is the time to check the mowing height at which your turfgrass is cut. Increasing the length of grass blade encourages a deeper root growth and provides more shade cover of the soil surface reducing water evaporation.

For summer mowing height Kentucky bluegrass and fine fescue are recommended to be maintained at 3 inches, perennial ryegrass at 2 inches, and tall fescue at 4 inches. Ensure that the mower blade is sharp and follow the one-third rule; remove no more than one-third of the leaf growth each mowing.

Grass clipping which are left on the lawn by mulching decompose quickly, feed soil organisms, recycle plant nutrients, and increase organic matter in the soil.

WATERING

The goal of irrigation is to keep the lawn healthy when rainfall is not dependable. The key is to moisten the top 12 inches of the root zone. Watering deeply (10 to 12 inches) but infrequently produces healthy turf. Practicing deep watering reduces weed populations, benefits landscape trees and shrubs, increases water use efficiency, and forces an exchange of soil atmosphere with each irrigation. Early morning is the best time to water.

Determining how deep irrigation water goes can be done by using a soil probe or shovel to check soil moisture the day after irrigation. At 10 to 12 inches deep the soil should feel slightly damp. If the soil feels dry at the 10- to 12-inch depth increase the duration of water application to fill the root zone. As weather conditions change adjust the frequency of irrigation to maintain plant available water in the root zone.

Identifying or knowing soil type will help to determine the frequency of water application, rate of water infiltration, and the soils water holding capacity. For example, heavy clay soils have a greater water holding capacity, but have a slower infiltration rate (speed at which water enters the soil). These soils can be watered less frequently (once a week or less) and may need multiple application of water on day of watering to allow water to move into the soil.  Sandy soils have less water holding capacity and a greater infiltration rate. These soils need to be watered more frequently to maintain comparable turf.

For a more calculated approach to water application reference the publication links below.

https://www.extension.uidaho.edu/publishing/pdf/CIS/CIS1098.pdf

https://www.extension.uidaho.edu/publishing/pdf/CIS/CIS1157.pdf

2022 Squash Bug (Anasa tristis)

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley

Squash bug (Anasa tristis)

Posted on: June 30, 2022 by Maria Held



2022 Squash Bug



Squash
bugs eggs have been reported in Canyon County by the Canyon County Master
Gardener Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Team in Caldwell. Adults have been spotted by a Master Gardener in
Meridian.  It is time to check the
underside of cucurbit (pumpkins and squash are the most attractive) leaves for
the bronze-colored egg clusters. In addition, monitor plants for nymphs, adults
and plants wilting. 



Management:



Wooden
boards, shingles, or heavy cardboard can be placed on the ground next to the
host plant. Squash bugs tend to move under the board/object at night. In the
morning, turn the object over and destroy the pest.



Hand-pick
and destroy adults, nymphs, or egg clusters. Other options include rolled duct
tape around fingers to pull off egg clusters, cutting off the egg part of the
leaf or applying petroleum jelly directly to the eggs. Increased success is
achieved when started early in the season and done every 2 to 3 days to keep
numbers low.



Cultural
methods include sanitation, plating squash varieties that are more tolerant of
squash bug feeding, crop rotation, and time of planting. 



Additional
control methods can be found in the linked publications.





2022 Peachtree Borer

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley, Treasure Valley - Idaho, Northern Idaho

Peachtree Borer

Posted on: June 29, 2022 by Ruth Givens

Peachtree bores are predicted to emerge between July 2 and July 5. This pest is a concern for stone fruits: Peach, nectarine, apricot, cherry, and plum. Key symptoms of peachtree borer infestation is the presence of sawdust and frass mixed with the gummy substance near the base of the trunk. Prevention is the best method of control.

Larvae injure the fruit tree primarily by burrowing into the tree trunks just at or below the soil line but may enter trunk up to 12” above the soil line. Larvae feed in the cambium beneath the bark girdling the tree.

Chemical Control, Home Use: For orchards less than 1 acre, or for home yard trees, preventative trunk sprays are the primary control. Apply the first application immediately after first trap catch and repeat application based on product label guidelines. Follow the required pre-harvest interval (time between last application and allowed harvest of fruit) of insecticide product. Apply insecticide as a bark drench at a rate of ½ to 1 gallon of spray mix per tree. Thoroughly cover the lower 12 inches of trunk and soak the ground at the base of tree. Do not allow the sprays to contact fruit. For chemical option review the PNW handbook link below.

Chemical Control, Commercial: Reference the PNW handbook link below to see spring and summer application recommendations.

Cultural Control: Larvae inside the trunks can be killed by inserting a wire into entry holes. Kill larvae in the late summer and fall before they spend the winter and inflict their most extensive feeding damage the following spring. Keep base of tree free of vegetation – heat and dryness reduce the survival of eggs and larvae.

The following links have information about the life cycle of peachtree borer and control methods.

https://pnwhandbooks.org/insect/tree-fruit/peach-nectarine/peach-nectarine-peachtree-borer

https://extension.colostate.edu/topic-areas/insects/peach-tree-borer-5-566/

https://digitalcommons.usu.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1651&context=extension_curall

2022 Peach Twig Borer

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley, Treasure Valley - Idaho, Northern Idaho

Peach Twig Borer

Posted on: June 22, 2022 by Ruth Givens

It is time for management of the peach twig borer, based on degree days. This pest is a concern for those growing peach, nectarine, apricot, plum and prune. Adult moths are 0.3 – 0.5 inches long, with light and dark gray mottled wings. Scales on the front of head cause the head to appear pointed. The larva is a caterpillar, about 0.5 inch long, with a dark brown head and distinctive, alternating light and dark bands on the body. 

Larvae injure fruit trees by feeding on the buds and twigs early in the season, then the larvae bore into the shoots, causing a characteristic "flagging" or wilting of the new growth. Later generations of larvae feed within shoots or even on the fruit itself. Flagging of twigs indicates an infestation.

For chemical control management options review the PNW Handbook link below to select a control option appropriate for operation. Apply according to label directions.

For cultural controls prune out shoot strikes in the late spring and early summer as soon as they are detected to prevent these larvae from completing development and contributing to summer generations of the pest. If old shoot strikes are observed during pruning in late winter to early spring, plan to apply early season controls. Old strikes hold onto the dead leaves and appear as “flagged” terminals.

https://pnwhandbooks.org/insect/tree-fruit/peach-nectarine/peach-nectarine-peach-twig-borer

https://climate.usu.edu//includes/pestFactSheets/Peach-Twig-Borer.pdf

2022 Western Cherry Fruit Fly

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley, Treasure Valley - Idaho, Northern Idaho

Western Cherry Fruit Fly

Posted on: June 3, 2022 by Ruth Givens

Western cherry fruit fly adults are about 0.2 inch long. They have brownish to black wings with dark bands. White maggots infest cherries. The mature maggot makes a hole in the cherry as it exits. Flies overwinter as pupae in the soil.

Once the cherries start to blush (ripen to a salmon blush color) the fruits are susceptible to egg-laying by the adult females. Consider the maturity of the ripest fruit in the orchard when determining control methods. Spraying a product with the active ingredient kaolin can create a physical barrier that prevents females from laying eggs into the developing fruit. For additional control options see the links below.

Forecasted degree days at 1060 DD is predicted to be June 4.

http://treefruit.wsu.edu/crop-protection/opm/western-cherry-fruit-fly/

https://climate.usu.edu//includes/pestFactSheets/WC-Fruit-Fly.pdf

https://pnwhandbooks.org/insect/tree-fruit/cherry/cherry-western-cherry-fruit-fly

2022 Apple Codling Moth, First Notification

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley, Treasure Valley - Idaho, Northern Idaho

Apple Codling Moth

Posted on: May 25, 2022 by Ruth Givens

The first apple codling moths were trapped in mid May . Currently the degree day model is reporting 201 degree days (DD) as of May 25. There are different management options to consider when controlling this pest.

Option A: Starting at 200 DD, forecasted to be May 25, apply a mixture of water and horticultural oil at 1% concentration to smother egg infestation. Follow with first application of insecticide at 350 DD. Reapply insecticides based on the protection interval stated on the label.

Option B: Starting at 220-250 DD, forecasted to be May 28, apply insecticides that target newly hatched larvae. Reapply insecticides based on the protection interval stated on the label.

Reference publication links to view insecticide options for commercial or residential sites. Commercial products with the active ingredients including; spinetoram, acetamiprid, chlorantraniliprole, etc. Residential products with active ingredients including; lambda-cyhalothrin (restricted use pesticide), or esfenvalerate and Spinosad (general-use pesticides). Non-spray option is to bag the fruit.

This pest needs prevention all season long for clean fruit.

https://pnwhandbooks.org/insect/tree-fruit/apple/apple-codling-moth

https://digitalcommons.usu.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1879&context=extension_curall

https://extension.colostate.edu/topic-areas/insects/codling-moth-control-in-home-plantings-5-613/

2022 Apple Codling Moth, First Generation

All Crops    Treasure Valley, Treasure Valley - Idaho, Northern Idaho

Apple Codling Moth

Posted on: May 25, 2022 by Ruth Givens

The first apple codling moths were trapped in mid May . Currently the degree day model is reporting 201 degree days (DD) as of May 25. There are different management options to consider when controlling this pest.

Option A: Starting at 200 DD, forecasted to be May 25, apply a mixture of water and horticultural oil at 1% concentration to smother egg infestation. Follow with first application of insecticide at 350 DD. Reapply insecticides based on the protection interval stated on the label.

Option B: Starting at 220-250 DD, forecasted to be May 28, apply insecticides that target newly hatched larvae. Reapply insecticides based on the protection interval stated on the label.

Reference publication links to view insecticide options for commercial or residential sites. Commercial products with the active ingredients including; spinetoram, acetamiprid, chlorantraniliprole, etc. Residential products with active ingredients including; lambda-cyhalothrin (restricted use pesticide), or esfenvalerate and Spinosad (general-use pesticides). Non-spray option is to bag the fruit.

This pest needs prevention all season long for clean fruit.

https://pnwhandbooks.org/insect/tree-fruit/apple/apple-codling-moth

https://digitalcommons.usu.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1879&context=extension_curall

https://extension.colostate.edu/topic-areas/insects/codling-moth-control-in-home-plantings-5-613/

2022 Lilac-Ash Borer Control

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley, Treasure Valley - Idaho, Northern Idaho

Lilac-Ash Borer

Posted on: May 23, 2022 by Ruth Givens

The lilac-ash borer (Podosesia syringae), a clear-wing moth, can be a destructive pest of many species of ash (Fraxinus spp.), previt (Ligustrum spp.), lilac (Sryinga spp.).

The Lilac-ash borers have reached the degree days sufficient for emergence. Adults are short-lived and typically deposit all eggs within a week after emergence. The first spray should be applied 10-20 days after adult emergence, approximately May 25- June 15, before the larvae bore into the trunk. Spray should be applied to the trunk and larger limbs, follow label instructions for application and reapplication depending insecticide selected.

Primary insecticides include permethrin (group 3A), bifenthrin (group 3A) and endosulfan (restricted use; group 2A). Please note that imidacloprid (group 4A), a systemic insecticide, is ineffective against lilac-ash borer and should not be used.

Diversifying species in the landscape, maintaining optimum plant health, monitoring, and preventive sprays (if necessary) are the best methods for preventing infestations. Only preventative treatments exist.

https://digitalcommons.usu.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1920&context=extension_curall

https://extension.colostate.edu/docs/pubs/insect/05614.pdf

https://pnwhandbooks.org/insect/hort/landscape/hosts-pests-landscape-plants/ash-fraxinus-ash-borer

https://pnwhandbooks.org/insect/hort/landscape/hosts-pests-landscape-plants/lilac-syringa-ash-borer

Lygus Bug in Alfalfa Seed - 2022

Alfalfa Seed    Treasure Valley, Treasure Valley - Idaho, Northern Idaho

lygus

Posted on: May 16, 2022 by Jerry Neufeld

The western tarnished plant bug (Lygus hesperus) degree day calculator hosted by Integrated Plant Protection Center at Oregon State University and the IPM Centers - PNW Coalition shows that, depending on your location in the Treasure Valley, we have accumulated 240 growing degree days between January 1, 2022 and May 16, 2022. Peak emergence of lygus bug 1st and 2nd instar nymphs occurs around 277 accumulated growing degree days. Using the predicted degree day model, peak emergence is predicted to occur on approximately May 22. We suggest growers monitor for lygus bugs in alfalfa seed fields starting very soon.

When using insecticides, fields should be treated when the numbers of lygus bugs reach a management threshold of 4-5 lygus bug nymphs per 180-degree sweep. Follow all insecticide labels and recommendations, including targeting the correct life stage. 

The link below will take you to the PNW Insect Management Handbook for lygus.


2022 Billbug Grub Control

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley, Treasure Valley - Idaho, Northern Idaho

Billbug

Posted on: May 13, 2022 by Ruth Givens

The term grub is used to designate the larvae of lawn damaging insects. In Idaho, the most common and destructive is the billbug. There are four species of billbug in Idaho: Bluegrass, Rocky Mountain, Phoenix, and Hunting.

Current degree day modeling indicates that 30% of adult billbugs are present with a forecasted 50% adult billbug activity on June 4. If you commonly experience billbug damage, your neighborhood experiences billbug damage, or you have Kentucky Bluegrass this timeframe can be used to apply a systemic insecticide for controlling billbugs if you desire.

Nonchemical control methods include selecting turf varieties of tall fescue, fine fescue, and perennial ryegrass. Select endophytic cultivar(s) in which a fungus produces a compound toxic to grubs.

Systemic insecticide control is most effective. Choose a product that lists one of the following active ingredients: chlorantraniliprole, clothianidan, imidacloprid, or thiamethoxam. Follow label instructions to ensure safety and success.

Sugarbeet Root Maggot - 2022

Sugarbeets    Treasure Valley, Treasure Valley - Idaho, Eastern Idaho, Magic Valley

sugarbeet root maggot

Posted on: May 10, 2022 by Jerry Neufeld

The growing degree day calculator (gdd) (hosted by the Integrated Plant Protection Center at Oregon State University; http://uspest.org/cgi-bin/ddmodel.us) for the sugarbeet root maggot fly shows that—depending on your location in the Treasure Valley—we have accumulated 330 gdd since March 1, 2022 and 258 gdd in the Magic Valley. Peak flight of root maggot flies should occur after 360 accumulated gdd when the maximum high temperature exceeds 80 degrees F. In the Treasure Valley this will be about May 15, in the Magic Valley this will be about May 22.  This is a few days later than last year in both locations.  The gdd model does an excellent job of predicting peak flight, but monitoring with orange sticky stake traps is the best way to get local information on fly numbers for a given field to determine if you have the threshold numbers of flies.  The link below will take you to the Sugarbeet Root Maggot Fly Monitoring readings for the Mini-Cassia and Upper Snake growing areas.

Root maggot flies will lay eggs near sugarbeet plants. After the larvae hatch they will begin feeding on the young sugarbeets. Look for these pests to appear in the western end of the Treasure Valley first.  The optimal timing for applying granular insecticides against root maggots is within 10 days of peak flight.  Granular insecticides must be watered in well to get good uptake by the sugarbeets.  The link below from the 2022 PNW Insect Management handbook contains additional information about the sugarbeet root maggot control. I have also attached a link to the University of Idaho publication entitled “Sugarbeet Root Maggot; Identification, Biology and Management.”  Amalgamated Sugar Company would like you to visit with your field consultant for treatment options.


As a reminder, all food uses of Lorsban/chlorpyrifos were cancelled, and tolerances revoked, by the U.S. EPA on February 28, 2022.  There is not an "existing stocks" provision, so you cannot use any leftover Lorsban/chlorpyrifos you have on hand.  No uses of any type are allowed on any food or feed crop.


2022 Spring Frost

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley, Treasure Valley - Idaho

Posted on: May 9, 2022 by Ruth Givens

Many locations across the Treasure Valley could experience a frost this evening. To review more details about frost tolerance for common vegetables view the first link below. To understand more about cold weather and frost protection reference the second link.

 


2022 Plant Diagnostic Clinics

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley, Treasure Valley - Idaho

Posted on: April 28, 2022 by Nic Usabel

Many University of Idaho Extension office locations offer a free plant diagnostic clinic where certified Idaho Master Gardener volunteers help answer clientele questions. Here are the details that were shared with the PNW Pest Alert Network for those locations in the Treasure Valley.

UI Extension, Ada County (Boise, ID): The plant diagnostic clinic operates April through September and is staffed Monday and Wednesday from 10 AM to 3 PM. Ada County residents should contact 208-287-5900 or email adamg@uidaho.edu with landscape and garden questions. For additional details visit https://www.uidaho.edu/extension/county/ada/horticulture 

UI Extension, Canyon County (Caldwell, ID): The free plant diagnostic clinic operates May through September and is staffed Monday and Wednesday 1 PM to 4 PM and Friday 9 AM to 12 PM. Canyon County residents should contact 208-459-6003 or email ccmg@uidaho.edu with landscape and garden questions. For additional details visit https://www.uidaho.edu/extension/county/canyon/horticulture. 

UI Extension, Owyhee County (Marsing, ID): Landscape and garden questions for Owyhee County residents can be directed to UI Extension Canyon County at 208-459-6003 or ccmg@uidaho.edu. Contact information for Owyhee County is 208-896-4104 or owyhee@uidaho.edu. For additional details visit https://www.uidaho.edu/extension/county/owyhee.  

Don’t see your county listed? Visit https://www.uidaho.edu/extension/directory/counties to find contact information for your county office.

2022 Spring Plant Sales

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley, Treasure Valley - Idaho

Posted on: April 27, 2022 by Nic Usabel

Spring Garden Plant Sale

UI Extension, Canyon County (Caldwell, ID): Searching for new plants to add to your garden or landscape? The University of Idaho Canyon County Master Gardener Spring Garden Plant Sale will be held on Saturday, April 30 from 9:00 AM to Noon, at Canyon County Extension Office, 501 Main Street, Caldwell. Preorders can be made at https://bit.ly/ccmgstore and are available for pick up Saturday, April 30 from 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM. Additional inventory will be available that is not provided for preorder. Available plants include vegetables, herbs, houseplants, succulents, flowering perennials, native plants, and so much more. Join in the fun! For More information, call UI Extension, Canyon County at (208) 459-6003.

UI Extension, Ada County (Boise, ID): Let’s get growing! The University of Idaho Annual Master Gardener Plant Sale will be held Saturday, May 7 from 9:00 AM to Noon, at the Ada County Extension Office, 5880 Glenwood Street, Boise. Offerings include houseplants, herbs, vegetables, and berries, flowering perennials, gardening books, and so much more. Cash or check only. Please no early birds. For more information, call the Master Gardeners at (208) 287-5900. Come join the fun!

There are several local groups and organizations that are hosting plant sales around the Treasure Valley. Check in with your local church groups, high schools, colleges/universities, and civic groups. Here are those we have been alerted to. 

  • Idaho Botanical Garden Online Plant Sale, Boise, (member only April 22, public April 29)
  • Vallivue High School, Caldwell, April 30
  • Ridgevue High School, Nampa, April 30
  • Marsing FFA Chapter, Marsing, May 4
  • Canyon Springs Garden Outreach, Middleton, May 7
  • Catholic Women’s League St. Paul’s Catholic Church, Nampa, May 7
  • Middleton Boy Scout Troop, Middleton, May 7

2022 Extension Drought Resources

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley

Posted on: April 24, 2022 by Nic Usabel

If you are looking for ways to conserve water during this growing season here are a number or resources available from various Extension programs. 

For additional questions reach out to a local Extension office. Find a local University of Idaho Extension Office.

2022 Pruning Deciduous Trees & Shrubs

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley

Posted on: January 25, 2022 by Nic Usabel

The dormant season is a great time to prune deciduous trees (landscape & fruit) and shrubs. It is not recommended to prune grapevines at this time.  As a general guide remove no more than one-third of the tree when pruning. Below are a few resources on how to prune. 

Prune shrub species which grow on the current season’s growth during the dormant period, usually late winter early spring. A few examples of flowering shrubs in this grouping including butterfly bush, heather, heavenly bamboo, hydrangea, shrubby roses and rose of sharon. Reference the third link for more information. 

For shrub species which form buds on last season’s growth prune these species within about two months after the flowers fade. On these species, flower buds form in late summer and early fall. Winter pruning decreases the number of flowers the following spring as branches containing flower buds are removed. A few examples of flowering shrubs in this grouping include azaleas, lilac, magnolia, mockorange, serviceberry, and witchhazel. Reference Pruning Ornamental Trees & Shrubs, from Purdue University

For most areas of Idaho, plants that bloom before June 1 formed the flowers the previous year on old wood. Those that bloom after June 1 form flowers on new growth. Keep in mind that this is rough guideline.

The City of Nampa Parks & Forestry Department will offer tree pruning classes. See the attached file Horticulture Workshops for more details. 

If you have additional questions, contact your local UI Extension office. To search by county visit https://www.uidaho.edu/extension/directory/counties

2022 Idaho Horticulture Expo

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley

Posted on: December 14, 2021 by Nic Usabel

The Idaho Nursery and Landscape Association will host the Idaho Horticulture Expo January 19-20 at the Boise Center. 

Here is a peak at just some speakers:

  • Stepahnie Adams, Morton Arboretum
  • Amanda Thompsen, author of Kiss My Aster
  • Tim Prather, University of Idaho
  • Dr. Brent Bean, BYU Idaho
  • See the full schedule

Credits available:

  • 11 continuing education credits for Arborists. 
  • 11 recertification credits for Pesticide Applicators

Register today at inlagrow.org.


2021 Live Evergreen Trees as Indoor Holiday Decoration

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley

Posted on: December 10, 2021 by Nic Usabel

If using a live, with roots attached, evergreen tree for your indoor holiday decoration here are some items to consider. 

First, consider where in the landscape you will plant your tree. Select an open area which lacks overhanging tree branches or wires. If you don't have such a site, consider a dwarf conifer or evergreen shrub. Choose a tree that will thrive in your soil condition and climatic condition. Proper planning now will save you time and money later. 

When you visit a nursery or garden center, you will find a variety of evergreens to choose from. Evergreens are commonly available as containerized trees grown in a pot or balled and burlapped trees. 

Before the ground freezes, dig a hole 2-3 times wider than the root ball, but only as deep as the root ball itself. The soil which is removed from the hole will need to be stored where it will not freeze. This soil will be used in planting the tree after the holiday. 

Trees have a better chance of survival if they are not displayed in the house for more than a 7 to 10 days. If purchasing the tree early keep the tree in a cool location before moving it indoors and water as necessary. Extended exposure to the indoor temperatures can counteract the winter dormancy in conifers. A short display period and prompt planting is the best way to insure the survival of the tree in the landscape. 

When you are ready to plant position and level the tree. If the root ball is wrapped remove any cover or wires. Inspect the tree root ball for circling roots and straighten, cut, or remove them. Identify the trunk flare, where the trunk widens near the root zone, and ensure that the root flare is viable at ground level once planted. With the reserved soil fill the hole and gently but firmly apply pressure. Water thoroughly and apply a woodchip mulch. For more detailed planting instructions of trees visit treesaregood.org

With appropriate care, planting, and management you will be able to enjoy your tree in the landscape for years to come.

Resources:

Selection and Care of Living Christmas Trees, NC State Extension



2021 Protecting Trees from Sunscald

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley

Posted on: November 19, 2021 by Nic Usabel

Sunscald or southwest winter injury happens during the winter. Intense direct and reflected sunlight will activate tissues under the bark. At night, temperatures fall, and cells freeze, causing cell death. This damage is often not noticed for a few years until the bark has split open exposing the damage below. The damaged sites are prone to attack by wood-boring insects and fungal pathogens.

Recently planted trees, young trees, and trees with thin bark are more susceptible to sunscald. Trees species which are susceptible include maple, linden, mountain-ash, honeylocust, birch, walnut, crabapple, flowering cherry, fruit trees, aspen, ash, tuliptree, and willow. 

To prevent sunscald damage from occurring keep the lower trunk insulated or shaded in winter. Susceptible trees can be protected by wrapping the trunk with paper tree wrap, overlapping about 33% with each turn. Wrap trunks upward from the base of the tree to a point just above the lowest branch. Wrap should be removed in early spring after the risk of a hard frost has passed. If not removed the wraps can harbor insects and disease.  Trunks can also be protected by placing a light-colored board to the south and west of the tree trunk. In large applications white latex paint can be diluted 1:1 with water and applied on the southwest side of the lower trunk. Landscape design and planting susceptible trees to the north and east of buildings or evergreens can help to shade the lower trunk. 

References:

2021 Fall Control for Coryneum Blight & Peach Leaf Curl

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley

Coryneum blight (Thyrostroma carpophilum) & Peach leaf curl (Taphrina deformans)

Posted on: November 1, 2021 by Nic Usabel

Coryneum blight or commonly known as shothole disease which is caused by fungus Thyrostroma carpophilum. Trees which have been affected develop small, round, tan-to-purpleish spots which then dry and fall out of the leaf producing a shothole effect. Most cultivars of peach, nectarine, apricot, and almond are very susceptible while cherry and plum are less susceptible. In addition, ornamental plant species can show damage. Beyond the leaf, symptoms can also be seen on the current season and 1-year old fruiting wood. Infections consist of round, reddish spots which are slightly sunken.

Chemical control will occur after 50% leaf drop in late autumn by spraying with a copper-based fungicide, chlorothalonil, or Bordeaux mixture. Follow the label instructions for rate and application procedure. Prune out affected twigs when practical. Culturally control shothole disease by not allowing irrigation sprinklers to wet the tree foliage, select cultivars which are disease resistant when available, and remove and dispose of affected foliage and twigs. 

Peach leaf curl caused by fungus Taphrina deformans and is specific to peaches and nectarines. Trees that are infected will have leaves that are distorted or curl, appear blistered, and develop a yellow or red color.   

Control can be achieved by a single fungicide application in the fall after 90% of the leaves have fallen. Chemicals used for control are copper products or chlorothalonil. Follow the label instructions for rate and application procedure. Homeowners should also remove and dispose of infected leaves that have fallen to the ground, to remove as much inoculum as possible. Resistant varieties can be selected for additional cultural control.

References:

2021 Idaho Master Gardener Programs in the Treasure Valley

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley

Posted on: October 13, 2021 by Nic Usabel

Interested in becoming an Idaho Master Gardener. See below for program information offered by University of Idaho Extension. 

UI Extension, Ada County (Boise, ID): Be added to the interest list by calling 208-287-5900 or email ada@uidaho.edu indicating your interest in the Idaho Master Gardener Program. Additional information can be found at uidaho.edu/ada.

UI Extension, Canyon County (Caldwell, ID): This location serves Canyon and Owyhee counties. Class to meet weekly Wednesday morning from 9am - noon January 12 – May 4. Be added to the interest list by emailing canyon@uidaho.edu or calling 208-459-6003. Registration packet will be released to interest list mid-October. Additional information can be found at uidaho.edu/canyon

UI Extension, Elmore County (Mountain Home, ID): Be added to the interest list for the 2023 class by calling 208-587-2136 ext. 1250 or email elmore@uidaho.edu. Additional information can be found at uidaho.edu/elmore

UI Extension, Washington County (Weiser, ID): This location serves the Payette River Valley (Gem, Payette, Washington, Adams counties). Additional information can be found at uidaho.edu/washington or by calling 208-414-0415. 

Don’t see your county listed? Use the Idaho Master Gardener webpage to find all program options across Idaho.

2021 Fall Lawn Fertilization & Care

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley

Posted on: September 15, 2021 by Nic Usabel

University of Idaho turf specialists recommended splitting the application of lawn fertilization into three (3) applications; early May, early September, and late October/November. Review the first reference below to identify fertilization application amounts using a soil test result or the second reference for general recommendations for southern Idaho.  Apply according to label directions. 

If your lawn is suffering from soil compaction or development of a thick thatch layer fall is the optimal time to core aerate.  For more information on core aeration review Core Aeration of Lawns

Fall is a great time to control perennial weeds in the landscape if opting to use herbicides. Perennials will begin storing carbohydrates in the roots promoting herbicides to be drawn deeper into the root system and allowing for better control. 

If there are additional questions on lawn care or weed management reach out to a local University of Idaho Extension office. 

Canyon County Master Gardeners are holding an online Fall Perennial Plant Sale. View the inventory selection at https://bit.ly/ccmgstore

References: 

2021 Reduce Watering Frequency During Fall

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley

Posted on: September 14, 2021 by Nic Usabel

The days are shortening, and evening temperatures are cooling. Now is the time to adjust the frequency between irrigation days for the landscape and garden. 

Lawn irrigation systems can be set to increase the number of days between irrigation based on soil texture. Adjusting the frequency of watering versus the run time allows for replenishment of the water holding capacity and usable water in the soil profile. See publication links below for greater explanation. This deep and infrequent method encourages a deeper root growth of plants. 

A reminder to deep water trees and shrubs prior to shutoff of irrigation water. See our previous alert, 2021 Deep Water Trees & Shrubs.

Canyon County Master Gardeners are holding an online Fall Perennial Plant Sale. View the store today at https://bit.ly/ccmgstore.

Reference:


2021 Spider Mites

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley

Spider Mites (Tetranychidea)

Posted on: September 1, 2021 by Nic Usabel

Idaho Master Gardeners observed a spider mite infestation on zucchini during a recent integrated pest management walk. Spider mites are small (1/60 inch) and cause leaves to appear dirty due to their abundant webbing and adhering of dust. Symptoms include stippling on upper surface of leaves, bronzing and scorching of leaves, and death of foliage when damage is severe. 

If you suspect a mite infestation, shake infested leaves over a white sheet of paper. If the small dots that fall to the paper move around, you likely have spider mites. For additional identification or confirmation, reach out to your local Extension office. Most spider mite activity peaks during dry conditions. 

Management:

  • Spider mites have a number or predatory mites and insects that can provide a high level of control. Avoid insecticides that are nonselective to help preserve predatory insects and mites. Examples include carbaryl, malathion, pyrethroid.  
  • Periodic hosing of plants with a forceful jet of water can physically remove spider mites and reduce dry dusty conditions favored by spider mites. 
  • If using a chemical control, select miticides that are specifically developed for spider mite control. 

References: 

2021 Deep Water Trees & Shrubs

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley

Posted on: August 31, 2021 by Nic Usabel

Many irrigation districts across the Treasure Valley have indicated that water delivery will end early this season. If your irrigation season will end soon consider deep watering your trees and shrubs before irrigation delivery has stopped. 

For established trees irrigate trees starting halfway between the trunk and the dripline  and extending well beyond the dripline. See photo linked below for a visual. For large trees this could encompass the entire lawn. For newly planted trees irrigation is best concentrated near the trunk and slightly beyond the root ball to encourage roots to move out into the surrounding soil. Shrubs can be watered in a similar fashion to ensure the roots of the shrub have received water. Evergreen trees and shrubs will continue to lose moisture from their needles or leaves all winter long.

Consider using mulches on the soil surface to conserve moisture. In addition, it will help with weed control and uniform soil temperature. Keep mulch 2 inches away from tree and shrub stems to discourage root and crown disease. 

References:


2021 Curly Top Virus in Tomatoes

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley

Beet Curly Top Virus

Posted on: August 26, 2021 by Nic Usabel

The Canyon County Master Gardener Integrated Pest Management Team recently detected a tomato plant with symptoms of curly top virus. The virus is carried by the beet leafhopper, Circulifer tenellus. The leafhopper takes up the virus when feeding and keeps it in its body the rest of its life. The most frequently cited hosts include Kochia, Lambsquarter, Halogeton, Russian thistle, Greasewood, and Atripex. 

The symptoms on tomatoes include the rolling up and twisting sharply of the leaflets to expose the undersurface. Foliage is stiff and leathery, and the entire plant is a peculiar dull yellow. Leaflet veins are purple, and the plant is often stunted. Many roots and rootlets die, as do severely affected plants. Young plants infected with the disease are usually killed.

The sporadic nature of Beet Curly Top Virus makes it very difficult to implement practical management strategies. One of the most promising strategies is to use resistance cultivars of tomatoes. Observations have shown that plants grown in shade do not contract the virus, so shading could be a possible management strategy. Excluding the beet leaf hopper with row cover buried in the ground and placed over the tomatoes until plants can no longer be contained inside can reduce early infection. Pull and dispose of infected plant material. 

References: 

2021 Spotted Wing Drosophila on Blackberries

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley

Spotted Wing Drosophila (Drosophila suzukii)

Posted on: August 16, 2021 by Nic Usabel

A Canyon County Master Gardener has detected Spotted Wing Drosophila (SWD) in blackberries. SWD targets a wide variety of fruits including raspberries, blackberries, and strawberries. SWD can damage ripe-to-overripe fruit by depositing eggs directly beneath the surface. Review the Utah State University publication linked in the reference material for monitoring methods. 

To recognize SWD damage, look very closely for scarring or spotting on the fruit surface; liquid exuding (when squeezed) out of scar/hole where eggs were laid; softening, collapsing and/or bruising of fruit at damage site; small white larvae and pupae that can be seen with naked eye if fruit is opened; and, under a microscope, two hair-like filaments sticking out of fruit where they are connected to a white egg within the fruit can sometimes be seen. Reach out to your local Extension office if you need help with identification or review the linked reference materials for additional details.

Non-Chemical Control

  • Pick ripe fruits frequently to minimize potential SWD host material.
  • Fine-mesh floating row covers can protect low growing fruits. 
  • Use traps around fruit production areas to capture and kill adult flies.
  • Damaged or fallen fruit should be removed, buried, solarized, crushed or stored in sealed container to exclude flies. 

Chemical Control

  • Should be coupled with monitoring efforts. Rotate chemical families to avoid resistance and follow the label for each crop. 
  • See specific fruit for recommended chemicals. Review links below. 
  • Pesticide families that help control SWD include: spinosyns, pyrethroids, carbamates, and organophosphates. Follow the label to determine appropriate rates, risks, and fruits in which it can be applied. 
  • Do not apply when bees and other pollinators are present, such as when plants are flowering or when pollinators are active.

Reference Materials:



2021 Blossom-End Rot

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley

Blossom-End Rot

Posted on: August 12, 2021 by Nic Usabel

Blossom-end rot is showing up on tomato and pepper plants. Eggplant, squash, and watermelon can also be affected. 

Blossom-end rot is a physiological disorder due to a shortage of calcium in young fruit. Blossom-end rot often occurs when soil moisture fluctuates as water stress interferes with calcium uptake in the plant.  Most Treasure Valley garden soils have enough calcium and additions are not recommended. Some varieties are more prone to blossom-end rot than others. 

Cultural Control Practices: 

  • Use infrequent deep irrigation to keep the soil uniformly moist and avoid water stress or fluctuating soil moisture. 
  • Organic mulch can be used to prevent wide fluctuations in soil moisture.
  • Avoid over fertilizing.
  • Avoid hoeing or cultivating near the roots. 

Reference Materials:

2021 Tobacco Budworm, Petunia & Geranium

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley

Tobacco Budworm (Chloridea virescens)

Posted on: August 11, 2021 by Nic Usabel

Tobacco budworm damage has been observed by Canyon County Master Gardeners during and Integrated Pest Management walk in Caldwell. Now is the time to monitor your petunia and geranium plants which are commonly affected by this pest.

Tobacco budworm feeds on buds and petals. The adult is a moth which is light green with gray or brown overtones and a few wavy, creamy colored bands. The moth is active in the early evening and lays eggs on buds or leaves. The caterpillar varies in overall color but is common in dark forms, green, or light brown. The caterpillar becomes full grown in about a month at which point it will burrow into the soil and transform to a pupal stage. The adult will emerge and begin the cycle again. Overwintering pupae are generally killed if exposed to temperatures below 20°F. Maintaining potted plants in protected areas (garage) can allow budworm pupae to survive in the soil.

Control
• Monitor and detect early. Check buds and flowers for small holes.
• A small planting could allow for handpicking as a control. Most caterpillars hide around the base of the plant in the day and climb onto plants at dusk or early evening.
• Application of microbial insecticide Bt Bacillus thuringiensis should be made late in the day and applied to provide good coverage.
• Additional insecticide options are available and should be applied when pollinators are not active or present on the plant.

Reference Materials:
• https://extension.colostate.edu/topic-areas/insects/tobacco-geranium-budworm-5-581/
• https://blogs.k-state.edu/kansasbugs/2016/07/15/geraniums-and-petunias-beware-of-the-tobacco-budworm/
• https://ag.umass.edu/greenhouse-floriculture/photos/budworm-petunia-calibrachoa-geranium-0

2021 Apple Codling Moth, Third Generation

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley

Codling Moth Cydia pomonella

Posted on: August 5, 2021 by Nic Usabel

The third generation of codling moth egg hatch is forecasted to begin August 10. Current degree day models indicate 2030 DD as of August 4. Third generation egg hatch begins at 2160-2200 DD. 

Continue to keep fruit protected through September 15. Protection of fruit can stop after this time even if fruit has not been harvested. By mid-September there is not enough day length to signal eggs on the fruit to hatch.

Follow label directions for harvest and post-harvest requirements. 

Reference Materials:


Corn Earworm Counts - 8/4/21

Corn    Treasure Valley

corn earworm

Posted on: August 4, 2021 by Jerry Neufeld

Below are the corn earworm moth counts from this morning, August 4.  The counts are increasing in certain areas, as you can see below.  If you have corn with fresh silk you may want to increase your scouting in areas where the counts are increasing.


Location Date

                      23-Jul 28-Jul 4-Aug

South of Nampa 2             2            9

Melba                 1             0            0

Homedale         4           12          21

Wilder                 3             3          29

Roswell                 0             4          22

Middleton         2             0            3

Total               12            21          84


Corn Earworm Counts - 7/28/21

Corn    Treasure Valley

corn earworm

Posted on: July 29, 2021 by Jerry Neufeld



Below are the corn earworm
moth counts from this morning, July 28.  At
this time counts are still low, except they are rising a little bit in the
Homedale area.  I will check the traps
again in a few days to see if the numbers are increasing.




























































Location



Date



23-Jul



28-Jul



South
of Nampa



2



2



Melba



1



0



Homedale



4



12



Wilder



3



3



Roswell



0



4



Middleton



2



0



Total



12



21


Corn Earworm Counts - 7/23/21

Corn    Treasure Valley

corn earworm

Posted on: July 23, 2021 by Jerry Neufeld

Below are the corn earworm moth counts from this morning, July 23. At this time there doesn’t appear to be a great deal of corn earworm moths around the valley. I will check the traps again in a few days to see if the numbers are increasing.

Location July 23

South on Nampa 2
Melba 1
Homedale 4
Wilder 3
Roswell 0
Middleton 2
Total 12

2021 Peach Twig Borer, Second Generation

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley

Peach Twig Borer (Anarsia lineatella)

Posted on: July 15, 2021 by Nic Usabel

The second generation of peach twig borer is beginning egg hatch. Current degree day models indicate 1253 degree days (DD) as of July 14. Second generation cover sprays begin 1200 - 1300 DD. First cover sprays for second generation should be applied now.

To view management control options review the PNW Handbook link below to select an option appropriate for your setting. Apply according to label directions.

Reference Masterials

Corn Earworm - 2021

Corn    Treasure Valley

corn earworm

Posted on: July 12, 2021 by Jerry Neufeld

I am once again
collaborating with Charter Seed Co. and Crookham Co. on a project to trap corn
earworm moths.  Traps will be set out in
corn fields at various locations near Melba, Middleton, Wilder, Homedale, and
Caldwell.  I will check the traps every
few days and post the moth counts to this website.

The online Phenology and
Degree Day Model (GDD) from Oregon State University is being used to estimate
when the summer generation of corn earworm moths will emerge.  This is the generation of moths that lay eggs
in corn that is silking at the time when they emerge.  The link to the GDD calculator for Corn
Earworm is below.

The GDD model uses January
1 as a biofix, 55 and 92 as the temperature parameters.   Summer
moths will emerge after 1300 GDD have accumulated.   These moths will then begin laying eggs in
fresh corn silk.  This model also
estimates the eggs will hatch and larvae will begin feeding on corn ears 73 GDD
later.  According to this model, we will
reach 1300 GDD in the Caldwell area about July 12, and will reach 1300 GDD in
the Parma area about July 15.   This is 10
to 14 days earlier than last year.  Egg
laying in most, if not all, Treasure Valley locations will take place in this approximate
time frame.  Larval feeding will begin 3
to 4 days after egg hatch.

Traps will go out soon.  The first moth counts will be posted a few
days after the traps are set out.









The links below will take
you to the websites where you can use the growing degree day model and also
view various treatment methods based on the type of corn that you are growing.

2021 Apple Codling Moth, Second Generation

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley

Codling Moth Cydia pomonella

Posted on: July 2, 2021 by Nic Usabel

The second generation of codling moth will begin egg hatch this weekend. Current trap biofix degree day models indicate 1069 DD as of July 1. Beginning egg hatch begins at 1120 DD, currently forecasted to be met by July 3. 

Rotate among insecticide classes between generations to prevent development of insecticide resistance. Reference publication links to view insecticide options for commercial or residential sites. Commercial products with the active ingredients including; spinetoram, acetamiprid, chlorantraniliprole, etc. Residential products with active ingredients including; lambda-cyhalothrin (restricted use pesticide), or esfenvalerate and Spinosad (general-use pesticides). Non-spray option is to bag the fruit.

This pest needs prevention all season long for clean fruit.

Reference Materials: 


2021 Squash Bug

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley

Squash Bug (Anasa tristis)

Posted on: June 30, 2021 by Nic Usabel

Squash bugs have been reported in Canyon County by an Idaho Master Gardener. It is time to check the underside of cucurbit (pumpkins and squash are the most attractive) leaves for the bronze-colored egg clusters. In addition, monitor plants for nymphs, adults and plants wilting. 

Management:

Wooden boards, shingles, or heavy cardboard can be placed on the ground next to the host plant. Squash bugs tend to move under the board/object at night. In the morning, turn the object over and destroy the pest.

Hand-pick and destroy adults, nymphs, or egg clusters. Other options include rolled duct tape around fingers to pull off egg clusters, cutting off the egg part of the leaf or applying petroleum jelly directly to the eggs. Increased success is achieved when started early in the season and done every 2 to 3 days to keep numbers low.

Cultural methods include sanitation, plating squash varieties that are more tolerant of squash bug feeding, crop rotation, and time of planting. 

Additional control methods can be found in the linked publications.

Reference Materials:

  • PNW Management Handbook: Squash Bug

2021 Peachtree Borer

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley

Peachtree Borer (Synanthedon exitiosa)

Posted on: June 23, 2021 by Nic Usabel

The peachtree borer Degree Day (DD) model indicates that now is the time to begin management.  This pest is a concern for stone fruits: Peach, nectarine, apricot, cherry, and plum. Key symptoms of peachtree borer infestation include the presence of sawdust and frass mixed with the gummy substance near the base of the trunk. Prevention is the best method of control.

Larvae injure the fruit tree primarily by burrowing into the tree trunks just at or below the soil line but may enter trunk up to 12” above the soil line. Larvae feed in the cambium beneath the bark girdling the tree. 

Chemical Control, Home Use: 

For orchards less than 1 acre, or for home yard trees, preventative trunk sprays are the primary control. Apply the first application immediately after first trap catch (or based on DD) and repeat application based on product label guidelines. Follow the required pre-harvest interval (time between last application and allowed harvest of fruit) of insecticide product. Apply insecticide as a bark drench at a rate of ½ to 1 gallon of spray mix per tree. Thoroughly cover the lower 12 inches of trunk and soak the ground at the base of tree. Do not allow the sprays to contact fruit. For chemical options review the PNW handbook

Chemical Control, Commercial: 

Reference the PNW handbook to review application recommendations.

Cultural Management Control:

Larvae inside the trunks can be killed by inserting a wire into entry holes. Kill larvae in the late summer and fall before they spend the winter and inflict their most extensive feeding damage the following spring. Keep base of tree free of vegetation – heat and dryness reduce the survival of eggs and larvae. 

Reference Materials:

2021 Turfgrass Mowing Height & Watering

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley

Posted on: June 22, 2021 by Nic Usabel

The weather in the Treasure Valley is warming quickly! 

MOWING

Now is the time to check the mowing height at which your turfgrass is cut. Increasing the length of grass blade encourages a deeper root growth and provides more shade cover of the soil surface reducing water evaporation. 

For summer mowing height Kentucky bluegrass and fine fescue are recommended to be maintained at 3 inches, perennial ryegrass at 2 inches, and tall fescue at 4 inches. Ensure that the mower blade is sharp and follow the one-third rule; remove no more than one-third of the leaf growth each mowing. 

Grass clipping which are left on the lawn by mulching decompose quickly, feed soil organisms, recycle plant nutrients, and increase organic matter in the soil. 

WATERING

The goal of irrigation is to keep the lawn healthy when rainfall is not dependable. The key is to moisten the top 10 inches to 12 inches of the root zone. Watering deeply (10 to 12 inches) but infrequently produces healthy turf. Practicing deep watering reduces weed populations, benefits landscape trees and shrubs, increases water use efficiency, and forces an exchange of soil atmosphere with each irrigation. Early morning is the best time to water. 

Determining how deep irrigation water goes can be done by using a soil probe or shovel to check soil moisture the day after irrigation. At 10 to 12 inches deep the soil should feel slightly damp. If the soil feels dry at the 10- to 12-inch depth increase the duration of water application to fill the root zone. As weather conditions change this fall adjust the frequency of irrigation to maintain plant available water in the root zone. Frequency of irrigation refers to the number of days between each water application.

Identifying or knowing soil type will help to determine the frequency of water application, rate of water infiltration, and the soils water holding capacity. For example, heavy clay soils have a greater water holding capacity, but have a slower infiltration rate (speed at which water enters the soil). These soils can be watered less frequently and may need multiple application of water on day of watering to allow water to move into the soil.  Sandy soils have less water holding capacity and a greater infiltration rate. These soils need to be watered more frequently to maintain comparable turf. 

For a more calculated approach to water application reference the publication links below. 

2021 Peach Twig Borer

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley

Peach Twig Borer (Anarsia lineatella)

Posted on: June 4, 2021 by Nic Usabel

Management of the peach twig borer, based on degree days and trap catches, will take place June 6 – June 10. This pest is a concern for those growing peach, nectarine, apricot, plum and prune. 

ABOUT

Adult moths are 0.3 – 0.5 inches long, with light and dark gray mottled wings. Scales on the front of head cause the head to appear pointed. The larva is a caterpillar, about 0.5 inch long, with a dark brown head and distinctive, alternating light and dark bands on the body. 

Larvae injure fruit trees by feeding on the buds and twigs early in the season, then the larvae bore into the shoots, causing a characteristic "flagging" or wilting of the new growth. Later generations of larvae feed within shoots or even on the fruit itself. Flagging of twigs indicates an infestation.

CONTROL

For chemical control management options review the PNW Handbook, link #1 below, to select a control option appropriate for operation. Apply according to label directions. 

For cultural controls prune out shoot strikes (dead shoots) in the late spring and early summer as soon as they are detected to prevent these larvae from completing development and contributing to summer generations of the pest. If old shoot strikes are observed during pruning in late winter to early spring, plan to apply early season controls. Old strikes hold onto the dead leaves and appear as “flagged” terminals.


2021 Fruit Thinning

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley

Posted on: June 2, 2021 by Nic Usabel

Fruits which are crowded should be thinned. Apples, pears,
Asian pears, apricots, plums, and peaches all respond positively to thinning.
Cherries and nut trees are  usually not thinned. Thinning fruit will 1) increase
fruit size, 2) improve the trees  productivity in the year to come, and 3)
reduce limb breakage as fruits begin to  size. Too many fruits on a tree
translates into small fruit that is often of poor quality.

General rules for thinning: 1) The earlier the better, 2)
remove smaller fruits and  leave the larger ones, 3) remove fruits with disease
spots, hail damage, or other  defects, 4) aim for even spacing. 

General guidelines by fruit – see links below for additional
detail.

  • Apples & pears:  Almost always need thinning. Should be thinned
    to one  fruit per spur with a good spacing of one fruit per 6” of branch.  Asian pears  spaced at one fruit per 6-8” of branch. Be careful not to break off spurs  while
    thinning – spurs produce flowers and fruit for many years if not  broken.
    Recommend to thin apples within 40 days of full bloom and pears within 60 days
    of full bloom.
  • Peaches & nectarines: Should be
    spaced at one fruit per 6-8” of branch.  Fruits that are joined should be
    removed. Recommend to thin peaches  about 70 days past full bloom. 
  • Plums: Should be thinned to have
    spacing at 6” between fruit along the  branch.
  • Apricots: If tree experiences heavy
    fruit set thin fruit spaced to 3” along  branch.
Trees will exhibit
“June Drop” which is  when the tree will naturally drop fruit. Some prefer to
wait until this event happens to thin, however there are great advantages to
thinning early.  More details can be found in the links below. 

2021 Western Cherry Fruit Fly

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley

Western Cherry Fruit Fly (Rhagoletis indifferens)

Posted on: May 28, 2021 by Nic Usabel

Western cherry fruit fly adults are about 0.2 inch long.
They have brownish to black wings with dark bands. White maggots infest
cherries. The mature maggot makes a hole in the cherry as it exits. Flies
overwinter as pupae in the soil. 

Management begins once the cherries start to blush (ripen to a salmon blush
color) when the fruits are susceptible to egg-laying by the adult females. Consider
the maturity of the ripest fruit on the tree/in the orchard when determining
control methods. Spraying a product with the active ingredient kaolin can create
a physical barrier that prevents females from laying eggs into the developing
fruit. For additional control options see the links below.

Current models indicate the degree days, as of May 27, between
1066 DD and 1111 DD depending on location.

2021 Aphid Monitoring

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley

Aphid (Family Aphididae)

Posted on: May 27, 2021 by Nic Usabel

Many different aphid species feed on ornamental landscape
plants. Aphids feed by inserting thin mouthparts into the plant phloem and
sucking out sap. Aphids are globular and 1 to 6 mm long depending on life stage
and species. They can be black, brown, yellow, red, gray or green. The legs and
antennae are usually long and fragile. Aphids may be wingless or have
functional wings. The offspring are smaller than the adults and are always
wingless.

Aphids excrete a sweet, sticky liquid called honeydew. When
aphids are abundant, honeydew often completely coats leaves and other objects below, giving infested plants a sticky or varnished appearance.

SCOUTING & MONITORING

  • Scout plants at least twice weekly when plants are young and
    growing rapidly. 
  • Check the underside of leaves where aphids congregate.

CONTROL – CULTURAL & MECHANICAL

  • On Shrubs and garden plants aphids can sometimes be managed
    by simply washing aphids off plants with a forceful jet of water.
  • If natural enemies are present such as lady beetle larvae or
    lacewing larvae these voracious predators will help to manage the control of
    aphids without chemical application. 
  • Several species of minute stingless wasps
    will also parasitize aphids.
  • Encourage natural enemies by planting yarrow, alyssum, herbs
    and other plants with small attractive flowers. 
  • Manage nitrogen levels. 
  • Use row covers

CONTROL – CHEMICAL

Thresholds help to determine whether and when to treat for
aphids.

  • When plants are young, aphid populations are increasing and
    aphids occur on 50-60% of the leaves. 
  • Aphid populations remain at 8 to 10 or more per leaf for two
    or more consecutive weeks.





























If high numbers of aphids regularly occur and
injure plant or are not sufficiently controlled by beneficial insects an
insecticide could be used for control. See publication links for suggested
control. 

UPCOMING PROGRAMMING

For upcoming programming activities view that attached documents

  • U and I Together: An activity series where all ages can learn!
  • Creating a Fire-Resistant Landscape

2021 Leafminer in Leafy Greens

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley

Leafminer (Liriomyza spp.)

Posted on: May 21, 2021 by Nic Usabel

Canyon County Idaho Master Gardeners have spotted leafminer damage on a recent Integrated Pest Management walk.

The leafminer (Liriomyza spp.) can be destructive to beets, spinach, chard, and other leafy greens. Leafminer describes the larval stage of various insects but are most commonly those that feed on vegetables. The adults are small black to gray flies with yellow markings in order Diptera.

Leafminer larvae form visible tunnels (mines) as they feed within the leaf tissue affecting the market value of vegetables harvested for edible foliage. Larvae are nearly translucent white or yellow color and about 0.25 inch long when mature.

To control regularly check leaves for mines which are sometimes more visible on the underside. For home gardeners using floating row covers to exclude egg-laying females, removing and destroying infested leaves and preserving natural enemies (parasitic wasps) which help control leafminer populations. See links for additional management options for home and commercial use.

2021 Billbug Grub Control

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley

Billbug Grub

Posted on: May 12, 2021 by Nic Usabel

The term grub is used to designate the larvae of lawn damaging insects. In Idaho, the most common and destructive is the billbug. There are four species of billbug in Idaho: Bluegrass, Rocky Mountain, Phoenix, and Hunting.

Current degree day modeling indicates that 30% of adult billbugs are present with a forecasted 50% adult billbug activity on May 26. If you commonly experience billbug damage, your neighborhood experiences billbug damage, or you have Kentucky Bluegrass this timeframe can be used to apply a systemic insecticide for controlling billbugs if you desire.

Nonchemical control methods include selecting turf varieties of tall fescue, fine fescue, and perennial ryegrass. Select endophytic cultivar(s) in which a fungus produces a compound toxic to grubs.

Systemic insecticide control is most effective. Choose a product that lists one of the following active ingredients: chlorantraniliprole, clothianidan, imidacloprid, or thiamethoxam. Follow label instructions to ensure safety and success.

2021 Apple Codling Moth, First Generation

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley

Codling Moth Cydia pomonella

Posted on: May 12, 2021 by Nic Usabel

The first apple codling moths were trapped at the end of April (Biofix on April 26). Currently the degree day model is reporting 138 degree days (DD) as of May 11. There are different management options to consider when controlling this pest.

Option A: Starting at 200 DD, forecasted to be May 15, apply a mixture of water and horticultural oil at 1% concentration to smother egg infestation. Follow with first application of insecticide at 350 DD. Reapply insecticides based on the protection interval stated on the label.

Option B: Starting at 220-250 DD, forecasted to be May 17, apply insecticides that target newly hatched larvae. Reapply insecticides based on the protection interval stated on the label.

Reference publication links to view insecticide options for commercial or residential sites. Commercial products with the active ingredients including; spinetoram, acetamiprid, chlorantraniliprole, etc. Residential products with active ingredients including; lambda-cyhalothrin (restricted use pesticide), or esfenvalerate and Spinosad (general-use pesticides).

Cultural control options include bagging the fruit once the fruit is ½ to ¾ inches in diameter. An insecticide application may be required before bags are applied to prevent early infestation. For a home /small orchard remove and dispose of young, damaged fruit by checking regularly. Placement of corrugated bands of carboard around the lower trunk can attract larvae looking for a place to pupate. Place bands in May and remove before adults begin to emerge in June.

This pest needs prevention all season long for clean fruit.

2021 Lilac-Ash Borer

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley

Lilac-Ash Borer Podosesia syringae

Posted on: April 30, 2021 by Nic Usabel

The lilac-ash borer (Podosesia syringae), a clear-wing moth, can be a destructive pest for many species of ash (Fraxinus spp.), previt (Ligustrum spp.), lilac (Sryinga spp.).

The Lilac-ash borers have been caught in traps. Adults are short-lived and typically deposit all eggs within a week after emergence. The first spray should be applied 10-20 days after adult emergence, approximately May 10, before the larvae bore into the trunk. Spray should be applied to the trunk and larger limbs, follow label instructions for application and reapplication depending insecticide selected.

Primary insecticides include permethrin (group 3A), bifenthrin (group 3A) and endosulfan (restricted use; group 2A). Please note that imidacloprid (group 4A), a systemic insecticide, is ineffective against lilac-ash borer and should not be used.

Diversifying species in the landscape, maintaining optimum plant health, monitoring, and preventive sprays (if necessary) are the best methods for preventing infestations. Only preventative treatments exist.

2021 Idaho Master Gardener Plant Diagnostic Clinics & Plant Sales

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley

Posted on: April 16, 2021 by Nic Usabel

Plant Diagnostic Clinic:

Many University of Idaho Extension offices offer a free plant
diagnostic clinic where certified Idaho Master Gardener volunteers help answer
clientele questions. Here are the details that were shared with the PNW Pest Alert
Network.

Don’t see your county listed? Use the first link below to
find all county locations in Idaho.

Spring Garden Plant Sale:

  • UI Extension, Ada County (Boise, ID): Let’s get growing! The
    University of Idaho Annual Master Gardener Plant Sale will be held Saturday,
    May 1st from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., at the Ada County Extension Office, 5880
    Glenwood Street, Boise. Offerings include houseplants, herbs, vegetables, and
    berries, flowering perennials, gardening books, and so much more. Cash or check
    only. Please no early birds. For more information, call the Master Gardeners at
    (208) 287-5900. Come join the fun!
  • UI Extension, Canyon County (Caldwell, ID): Searching for
    new plants to add to your garden or landscape? The University of Idaho Canyon
    County Master Gardener Spring Garden Plant Sale will be held on Saturday, April
    24th from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM, at Canyon County Extension Office, 501 Main
    Street, Caldwell. New this year will be the virtual pre-sale opening Monday,
    April 19 and closing Friday, April 23. Items can be pre-ordered at https://bit.ly/ccmgstore and are available
    for pick up Saturday, April 24 from 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM. Available plants
    include vegetables, herbs, houseplants, succulents, flowering perennials,
    native plants, and so much more. Join in the fun! For More information, call UI
    Extension, Canyon County at (208) 459-6003.


2021 Rose & Grapevine Pruning

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley

Posted on: April 2, 2021 by Nic Usabel

It’s time to prune roses and grapevines in the Treasure Valley. The cold temperatures are milder, and the forsythia is in full bloom.

ROSES:
For a guide to pruning roses click the first link below. For a video tutorial click the second link below.

GRAPEVINES:
The University of Idaho Research & Extension Center in Parma recommends pruning grapevines in the Treasure Valley no sooner than mid-March to ensure that low temperatures do not kill buds after pruning. Grapevines can “bleed”, movement of sap from the cut, heavily when pruned in spring. This does not harm the vines. For a pruning guide on grapevines click the third link below. For a video tutorial click the fourth link below.

Additional sources not provided in the links below include Grapevine Management from Utah State University at https://digitalcommons.usu.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=2672&context=extension_curall and Pruning Roses from Colorado State University at https://planttalk.colostate.edu/topics/trees-shrubs-vines/1763-pruning-roses/.

For additional questions on rose or grapevine pruning reach out to a local University of Idaho Extension office. Find your county office by visiting https://www.extension.uidaho.edu/find.aspx.

2021 Hard Frost Forecasted

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley

Posted on: March 29, 2021 by Ruth Givens

Hard frost is forecasted for Monday 3/29 and Tuesday 3/30 nights. If fruit trees are blooming cover to protect fruit. Uncover during the day. For more details see the link below.

2021 Mosquito Management Webinar

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley

Posted on: March 29, 2021 by Nic Usabel

A free virtual webinar titled "Mosquito Management: An Integrated Approach" will be hosted by University of Idaho Extension, Canyon County on Tuesday, April 13 2021 at 6 PM MDT.

In this webinar James Lunders, District Director for Canyon County Mosquito Abatement District, will discuss control of larval and adult mosquitos, surveillance of mosquito borne diseases, and how to protect yourself, pets, and livestock.

Registration should be completed at https://bit.ly/2Cmosquito

To see the flyer visit http://bit.ly/2QosdEE

2021 Spring Lawn Fertilization & Care

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley

Posted on: March 15, 2021 by Nic Usabel

Spring lawn fertilization for cool season grasses recommend that fertilization be made while energy is being directed to root growth, which follows with leaf growth. This timeframe for cool season turf in the Treasure Valley traditionally March thru early May. If mulching is a practice in your lawn maintenance plan, nitrogen can be reduced by ½ pound annually. Attend a “Lawn Care for Success” class to learn more about maintenance, fertilization, and watering. Click the link https://bit.ly/21Lawn2C to register for the class.

The proper rate of fertilizer application is best achieved when using a soil test result to identify the fertilizer needs of the soil. Use the second link below to access a publication to help calculate rate of fertilizer application for the lawn. Applications should be split between spring and fall. Application rates should not exceed 1 pound of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet in any one application, access the third link below to review the publication to identify additional time(s) for application if rate would exceed the 1 pound of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet limit with only and spring and fall application. Always follow label directions.

For more information on how to obtain a soil sample to a soil test submission contact your local University of Idaho Extension office. Contact information can be found at https://www.extension.uidaho.edu/find.aspx

Another method of identifying application rate is based on the level of turf maintenance from low to high traffic. Application rates should not exceed 1 pound of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet in any fertilizer application and always follow label directions. Review descriptions, timing, and rate of application below.

1. Light use is classified as occasional foot traffic or little to no play from children. Annual turfgrass recommendation is 0-1 pound of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet. Split the application between a spring and fall application.

2. Moderate Use: Typical children’s play and occasional garden parties. Annual turfgrass recommendation is 2-3 pounds of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet. Split the application equally between a spring, early fall (late September) and late fall (Mid October to Late November)

3. Heavy Use: Frequently used sports field play, heavy traffic and/or frequent garden parties. Annual turfgrass recommendation is 4-6 pounds of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet. Apply 1 pound of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet in spring, 0.5 pound of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet late May/early June, 0.5 pound of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet late June/early July, 1 pound of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet early fall (late September) and 1 pound of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet late fall (Mid October to Late November).

If your lawn is suffering from soil compaction or development of a thick thatch layer core aeration can be completed in the spring but is preferred in fall while weed pressure will be reduced. For more information on core aeration reference the fourth publication link below.

Spring provides the opportunity to seed new turfgrass areas or to over-seed areas that may have been damaged over the winter. Cool temperatures will promote germination and growth of cool season turf species, tall and fine fescues, perennial ryegrass, and Kentucky bluegrass. Weed pressure can be higher this time of year so consider your weed control options or consider overseeding in the fall. Select pest resistant or recommended turfgrass cultivars when possible.

If there are additional questions on lawn care or weed management reach out to a local University of Idaho Extension office.

2021 Peach Leaf Curl Delayed-Dormant Spring Application

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley

Peach leaf curl (Taphrina deformans)

Posted on: February 6, 2021 by Nic Usabel

If you experienced peach leaf curl on peach or nectarine trees during the 2020 growing season and did not treat in the fall a delayed-dormant application before floral buds open is recommended to help with control.

DESCRIPTION: Peach leaf curl caused by fungus Taphrina deformans and is specific to peaches and nectarines. Trees that are infected will have leaves that are distorted or curl, appear blistered, and develop a yellow or red color.

CONTROL: Spray with an approved fungicide such as lime sulfur or copper-based fungicide. More chemical options listed by viewing the PNW handbook link below. Apply according to label directions and instructions. Cultural control for backyard growers includes removal of infected leaves that have fallen and selecting resistant cultivars.

If you have additional questions, contact your local University of Idaho Extension office at https://www.extension.uidaho.edu/find.aspx.

2021 Pruning Deciduous Trees & Shrubs

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley

Posted on: January 30, 2021 by Nic Usabel

It is time to prune deciduous trees (landscape & fruit) and shrubs. As a general guide remove no more than one-third of the tree when pruning. Reference the first and third link for pruning deciduous trees and for a video reference the fourth link. Reference the second link for fruit trees.

Prune shrub species which grow on the current season’s growth during the dormant period, usually late winter early spring. A few examples of flowering shrubs in this grouping including butterfly bush, heather, heavenly bamboo, hydrangea, shrubby roses and rose of sharon. Reference the third link for more information.

For shrub species which form buds on last season’s growth prune these species within about two months after the flowers fade. On these species, flower buds form in late summer and early fall. Winter pruning decreases the number of flowers the following spring as branches containing flower buds are removed. A few examples of flowering shrubs in this grouping include azaleas, lilac, magnolia, mockorange, serviceberry, and witchhazel. Reference the third link for more information.

For most areas of Idaho, plants that bloom before June 1 formed the flowers the previous year on old wood. Those that bloom after June 1 form flowers on new growth. Keep in mind that this is only a rough guideline.

For classes on pruning in the Treasure Valley see the attached file.

If you have additional questions, contact your local UI Extension office. To search by county visit https://www.extension.uidaho.edu/find.aspx

2021 Delayed-Dormant Oil Application

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley

Posted on: January 30, 2021 by Nic Usabel

The use of horticultural oil as a dormant spray can target many insect pests at a time when beneficial insects are not yet active. Even though we refer to it as dormant oil, the application is not when trees are still dormant. A better term is a delayed-dormant application because the oil should be applied after bud swell. This coincides with the increasing activity of the overwintering insect stages, such as aphid eggs, scale nymphs, and peach twig borer larvae.

WHEN TO SPRAY: Two factors must correspond – temperature and bud stage.

TEMPERATURE: Only apply oil if temperatures remain above 40°F for 24 hours after application. With ideal conditions oil should be applied on a clear, non-windy day in the 50 to 70°F temperature range.

BUD STAGE: The window of application extends from bud swell to when the leaves just start emerging. The last point you can safely apply oil based on fruit tree crop are Apple: Half-inch green, but ideal application at green tip stage. Pear: Cluster bud. Cherry: White bud. Peach/nectarine: pre-bloom. Refer to the first link below for pictures of bud stage.

Oil should be applied at a rate of 2% (5 Tbs in 1 gallon water) and thoroughly cover all cracks and crevices. If aphids and scale have been a serious problem in previous years an insecticide could be added, see second link for chemical products listed by pest. Read and follow label instructions for preparation and application.

If you have additional questions, contact your local UI Extension office. Reference the third link to search by county.

2020 Protecting Trees from Sunscald

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley

Posted on: November 18, 2020 by Nic Usabel

Sunscald or southwest winter injury happens during the winter. Intense direct and reflected sunlight will activate tissues under the bark. At night, temperatures fall, and cells freeze, causing cell death. This damage is often not noticed for a few years until the bark has split open exposing the damage below. The damaged sites are prone to attack by wood-boring insects and fungal pathogens.

Recently planted trees, young trees, and trees with thin bark are more susceptible to sunscald. Trees species which are susceptible include maple, linden, mountain-ash, honeylocust, birch, walnut, crabapple, flowering cherry, fruit trees, aspen, ash, tuliptree, and willow.

To prevent sunscald damage from occurring keep the lower trunk insulated or shaded in winter. Susceptible trees can be protected by wrapping the trunk with paper tree wrap, overlapping about 33 percent with each turn. Wrap trunks upward from the base of the tree to a point just above the lowest branch. Wrap should be removed in early spring after the risk of a hard frost has passed. If not removed the wraps can harbor insects and disease. Trunks can also be protected by placing a light-colored board to the south and west of the tree trunk. In large applications white latex paint can be diluted 1:1 with water and applied on the southwest side of the lower trunk. Landscape design and planting susceptible trees to the north and east of buildings or evergreens can help to shade the lower trunk.

Have you completed the annual survey for the Landscape & Garden section of the PNW Pest Alert Network? Complete the survey by November 20th to be entered into a drawing for an Amazon gift card. See link 3 below to access the survey.

2020 Fall Control for Coryneum Blight & Peach Leaf Curl

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley

Coryneum blight (Thyrostroma carpophilum) & Peach leaf curl (Taphrina deformans)

Posted on: October 28, 2020 by Nic Usabel

Coryneum blight or commonly known as shothole disease which is caused by fungus Thyrostroma carpophilum. Trees which have been affected develop small, round, tan-to-purpleish spots which then dry and fall out of the leaf producing a shothole effect. Most cultivars of peach, nectarine, apricot, and almond are very susceptible while cherry and plum are less susceptible. In addition, ornamental plant species can show damage. Beyond the leaf, symptoms can also be seen on the current season and 1-year old fruiting wood. Infections consist of round, reddish spots which are slightly sunken.

Chemical control will occur at 50% leaf drop in late autumn by spraying with a copper-based fungicide, chlorothalonil, or Bordeaux mixture. Follow the label instructions for rate and application procedure. Prune out affected twigs when practical. Culturally control shothole disease by not allowing irrigation sprinklers to wet the tree foliage, select cultivars which are disease resistant when available, and remove and dispose of affected foliage and twigs.

Peach leaf curl caused by fungus Taphrina deformans and is specific to peaches and nectarines. Trees that are infected will have leaves that are distorted or curl, appear blistered, and develop a yellow or red color.

Control can be achieved by a single fungicide application in the fall after 90% of the leaves have fallen. Chemicals used for control are copper products or chlorothalonil. Follow the label instructions for rate and application procedure. Homeowners should also remove and dispose of infected leaves that have fallen to the ground, to remove as much inoculum as possible. Resistant varieties can be selected for additional cultural control.

2020 Frost Alert

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley

Posted on: October 14, 2020 by Nic Usabel

Many locations across the Treasure Valley could experience a frost this evening. To review more details about frost tolerance for common vegetables view the first link below. To understand more about cold weather and frost protection reference the second link.

Have you enjoyed landscape and garden insect pest alerts this season? If so, consider donating to the “2C Master Gardener: Growing Skills & Expertise for Local Outreach” crowdfunding campaign by clicking the third link. Master Gardener volunteers in Canyon County help to monitor and report insect pests to the PNW Pest Alert Network. A donation of $5 will help maintain one trapping station for the upcoming year.

2020 Idaho Master Gardener Programs in the Treasure Valley

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley

Posted on: September 25, 2020 by Nic Usabel

Interested in becoming an Idaho Master Gardener. See below for program information coming near you.

UI Extension, Ada County (Boise, ID): Currently has waiting list for class. Additional information can be found at uidaho.edu/ada or by calling 208-287-5900.

UI Extension, Canyon County (Caldwell, ID): This location serves Canyon and Owyhee counties. Class to meet weekly Wednesday morning from 9am - noon January – April. Registration to open October 1st. Additional information can be found at uidaho.edu/canyon or by calling 208-459-6003.

UI Extension, Elmore County (Mountain Home, ID): Class to meet weekly Saturday from 10am – 2pm January – April. Registration open now. Additional information can be found at uidaho.edu/elmore or by calling 208-587-2136 ext. 1250

UI Extension, Washington County (Weiser, ID): This location serves the Payette River Valley (Gem, Payette, Washington, Adams counties). Additional information can be found at uidaho.edu/Washington or by calling 208-414-0415.

Don’t see your county listed? Use the link below to find all program options in Idaho.

2020 Brown Marmorated Stink Bug

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley

Brown Marmorated Stink Bug (Halyomorpha halys)

Posted on: September 23, 2020 by Nic Usabel

The Brown Marmorated Stink Bug (BMSB) is an invasive insect pest from eastern Asia. Its first North America detection was in Pennsylvania in 1996. BMSB adults were first discovered in Canyon County in May 2012 and in Ada County in October 2014. This year a location with traps adjacent to orchards in Canyon and Payette counties participating in the SCRI nationwide survey has collected five (5) BMSB in two subsequent weeks.

If you believe you have found BMSB in Idaho take a specimen to your local Extension office or contact the Idaho State Department of Agriculture’s Pest Survey Program at (208) 332-8627.

BMSB has a shield-shaped body with mottled brownish-grey coloration. The adults are just over ½ inch long, and their antennae are marked with distinctive white bands. The insect’s underside is white with gray or black markings, and its legs are brown with faint white banding. Unlike most native stink bugs, BMSB has smooth “shoulders”. BMSBs have distinctive black and white “skirting” around their abdomens that protrudes from under the wings. See image.

BMSB has a broad host range that includes fruit, vegetable, ornamental, and field crop plants. The insect has a mouthpart for piercing and sucking plant sap and prefers fruits and seeds pods (reproductive structures). In Utah, the catalpa tree has shown the greatest numbers during detection and assessment of invasion risk.

2020 Master Gardener Fall Perennial Plant Sale

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley

Posted on: September 11, 2020 by Nic Usabel

Canyon County Master Gardeners are holding a Fall Perennial Plant Sale. Orders can be placed online now, see first link below, and picked up curbside Saturday, September 19th from 9 AM – Noon at the UI Extension, Canyon County location at 501 Main St. Caldwell, ID 83605.

For additional information reference the flyer link below or call UI Extension, Canyon County at 208-459-6003.

2020 Fall Lawn Fertilization & Care

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley

Posted on: September 10, 2020 by Nic Usabel

For lawns, University of Idaho turf specialists recommend splitting fertilizer into three (3) applications early May, early September, and later October/November. Reference the publications linked below to identify fertilization amounts using soil test results (first publication link) or general recommendations for southern Idaho (second publication link). Apply fertilizer following label directions.

If your lawn is suffering from soil compaction or development of a thick thatch layer fall is the optimal time to core aerate. For more information on core aeration reference the third publication link below.

Fall is a great time to control perennial weeds in the landscape if opting to use herbicides. Perennials will begin storing carbohydrates in the roots promoting herbicides to be drawn deeper into the root system and allowing for better control.

If there are additional questions on lawn care or weed management reach out to a local University of Idaho Extension office.

2020 Reduce Watering Frequency During Fall

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley

Posted on: September 9, 2020 by Nic Usabel

The days are shortening, and evening temperatures are cooling. Now is the time to adjust the frequency between irrigation days for the landscape and garden.

Lawn irrigation systems should be set to increase the number of days between irrigation according to soil texture. Adjusting the frequency of watering versus the run time allows for replenishment of the water holding capacity and usable water in the soil profile (see publication link one or two below). This deep and infrequent method encourages deeper root growth of plants.

Also consider a deep watering for trees and shrubs at the drip line (see third publication link) prior to irrigation water being turned off. Evergreen trees and shrubs will continue to lose moisture from their needles or leaves all winter long.

2020 Apple Codling Moth, Third Generation

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley

Codling Moth Cydia pomonella

Posted on: August 27, 2020 by Nic Usabel

The third generation of codling moth egg hatch has begun. Current degree day models indicate 2168 DD as of August 26. Third generation egg hatch begins at 2160-2200 DD.

Continue to keep fruit protected through approximately September 15. Protection of fruit can stop after that time, even if fruit has not been harvested. By mid-September there is not enough day length to signal n eggs in the fruit to hatch.

Follow label directions for harvest or post-harvest requirements.

Corn Earworm Counts - 8/16/20

Corn    Treasure Valley

corn earworm

Posted on: August 16, 2020 by Jerry Neufeld

Click on the pdf below for the corn earworm moth counts from this morning, August 16. There are still moths around this week, but there is less fresh silk for them to lay eggs in. The traps have been removed from the fields, there will be no more moth counts this growing season.

Corn Earworm Counts - 8/12/20

Corn    Treasure Valley

corn earworm

Posted on: August 12, 2020 by Jerry Neufeld

Click on the pdf below for the corn earworm moth counts from this morning, August 12. There are quite a few more moths this week. There are corn earworm moths around the valley, scouting on a more localized basis is still probably a good thing to do.

corn earworm counts - 8/5/2020

Corn    Treasure Valley

corn earworm

Posted on: August 5, 2020 by Jerry Neufeld

Click on the pdf below for the corn earworm moth counts from this morning, August 5. There are more moths this week, but the counts are still not real high. There are corn earworm moths around the valley, scouting on a more localized basis is still probably a good thing to do.

2020 Blossom Drop on Tomatoes and Peppers

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley

Blossom Drop

Posted on: August 3, 2020 by Nic Usabel

Blossom drop during this time of year is generally associated with temperature changes. Pollen becomes sterile during hot weather. Blossom drop and/or lack of fruit set can also be caused by too much nitrogen and water stimulating leaf growth over fruit set.

Tomatoes will experience blossom drop when evening temperature drop below 55 degrees or daytime temperatures exceed 90 degrees for an extended period. Cherry type tomatoes can set fruit over a wider range of temperatures as compared to larger fruited types.

Pepper blossoms are found to be more sensitive to temperature fluctuations during the stage of pollination. Blossoms can fall off before pollination when temperatures fall below 58 degrees and daytime temperatures rise above 85 degrees.

Remember that deep and infrequent watering is best.

Corn Earworm Counts - 7/29/20

Corn    Treasure Valley

corn earworm

Posted on: July 29, 2020 by Jerry Neufeld

Below are the corn earworm moth counts from this morning, July 29. At this time there doesn’t appear to be a great deal of corn earworm moths around the valley. I will check the traps again in a few days to see if the numbers increase.

Location, Date, 29-Jul
West of Caldwell 7
South of Nampa 4
Melba 8
SouthWest of Homedale 0
West of Wilder 0
West of Notus 8
Middleton 1

2020 Peach Twig Borer, Second Generation

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley

Peach Twig Borer (Anarsia lineatella)

Posted on: July 24, 2020 by Nic Usabel

The second generation of peach twig borer will begin egg hatch today. Current degree day models indicate 1182 as of July 23. Second generation cover sprays begin at 1200 DD, currently forecasted for today. First cover sprays for second generation should be applied now.

For management control options review the PNW Handbook link below to select a control option appropriate for the operation. Apply according to label directions.

Corn Earworm - 2020

Corn    Treasure Valley

corn earworm

Posted on: July 20, 2020 by Jerry Neufeld

I am once again collaborating with Charter Seed Co. and Crookham Co. on a project to trap corn earworm moths. Traps will be set out in corn fields at various locations near Kuna, Melba, Middleton, Wilder, Homedale, and Caldwell. I will check the traps every few days and post the moth counts to this website.

The online Phenology and Degree Day Model (GDD) from Oregon State University is being used to estimate when the summer generation of corn earworm moths will emerge. This is the generation of moths that lay eggs in corn that is silking at the time when they emerge. The link to the GDD calculator for Corn Earworm is below.
The GDD model uses January 1 as a biofix, 55 and 92 as the temperature parameters. Summer moths will emerge after 1300 GDD have accumulated. These moths will then begin laying eggs in fresh corn silk. This model also estimates the eggs will hatch and larvae will begin feeding on corn ears 73 GDD later. According to this model, we will reach 1300 GDD in the Caldwell area about July 29, and will reach 1300 GDD in the Parma area about July 30. Egg laying in most, if not all, Treasure Valley locations will take place in this approximate time frame. Larval feeding will begin 3 to 4 days later.

Traps will go out in a couple of days. The first moth counts will be posted a few days after the traps are set out.

The links below will take you to the websites where you can use the growing degree day model and also view various treatment methods based on the type of corn that you are growing.

2020 Apple Codling Moth, Second Generation

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley

Codling Moth (Cydia pomonella)

Posted on: July 13, 2020 by Nic Usabel

The second generation of codling moth will begin egg hatch this week. Current degree day models report 1072 DD as of July 12. Beginning egg hatch begins at 1100 DD, currently forecasted for July 14.

Rotate among insecticide classes between generations to prevent development of insecticide resistance. Reference publication links to view insecticide options for commercial or residential sites. Commercial products with the active ingredients including; spinetoram, acetamiprid, chlorantraniliprole, etc. Residential products with active ingredients including; lambda-cyhalothrin (restricted use pesticide), or esfenvalerate and Spinosad (general-use pesticides). Non-spray option is to bag the fruit.

This pest needs prevention all season long for clean fruit.

2020 Squash Bug

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley

Squash Bug (Anasa tristis)

Posted on: July 8, 2020 by Nic Usabel

Squash bugs have been reported in Canyon County by an Idaho Master Gardener and University of Idaho personnel. It is time to check the underside of cucurbit (pumpkins and squash are most attractive) leaves for the bronze colored egg clusters. In addition, monitor plants for nymphs, adults and plants wilting.

MANAGEMENT
Wooden boards, shingles, or heavy cardboard can be placed on the ground next to the host plant. Squash bugs tend to move under the board/object at night. In the morning, turn the boards over and destroy the pest.

Hand-pick and destroy adults, nymphs, or egg clusters. Other options include rolled duct tape around fingers to pull off egg clusters, cutting off the egg part of the leaf or applying petroleum jelly directly to the eggs. Increased success is achieved when started early in the season and done every 2 to 3 days to keep numbers low.

Cultural methods include sanitation, plating squash varieties that are more tolerant of squash bug feeding, crop rotation, and time of planting.

Additional control methods can be found in the publications linked below.

2020 Turfgrass Mowing Height & Watering

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley

Posted on: July 7, 2020 by Nic Usabel

MOWING
The weather will be warming and now is the time to check the mowing height at which your turfgrass is cut. Increasing the length of grass blade encourages a deeper root growth and provides more shade cover of the soil surface reducing water evaporation.

For summer mowing height Kentucky bluegrass and fine fescue are recommended to be maintained at 3 inches, perennial ryegrass at 2 inches, and tall fescue at 4 inches. Ensure that the mower blade is sharp and follow the one-third rule; remove no more than one-third of the leaf growth each mowing.

Grass clipping which are left on the lawn by mulching decompose quickly, feed soil organisms, recycle plant nutrients, and increase organic matter in the soil.

WATERING
The goal of irrigation is to keep the lawn healthy when rainfall is not dependable. The key is to moisten the top 12 inches of the root zone. Watering deeply (10 to 12 inches) but infrequently produces healthy turf. Practicing deep watering reduces weed populations, benefits landscape trees and shrubs, increases water use efficiency, and forces an exchange of soil atmosphere with each irrigation. Early morning is the best time to water.

Determining how deep irrigation water goes can be done by using a soil probe or shovel to check soil moisture the day after irrigation. At 10 to 12 inches deep the soil should feel slightly damp. If the soil feels dry at the 10- to 12-inch depth increase the duration of water application to fill the root zone. As weather conditions change adjust the frequency of irrigation to maintain plant available water in the root zone.

Identifying or knowing soil type will help to determine the frequency of water application, rate of water infiltration, and the soils water holding capacity. For example, heavy clay soils have a greater water holding capacity, but have a slower infiltration rate (speed at which water enters the soil). These soils can be watered less frequently (once a week or less) and may need multiple application of water on day of watering to allow water to move into the soil. Sandy soils have less water holding capacity and a greater infiltration rate. These soils need to be watered more frequently to maintain comparable turf.

For a more calculated approach to water application reference the publication links below.

2020 Fire Blight on Ornamental Trees

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley

Caused by bacterium Erwinia amylovora

Posted on: July 1, 2020 by Nic Usabel

Spring conditions have amplified the effects of fire blight bacterium in not only pear fruit and apple fruit, but ornamental plants in the Rose family. Plants which may show damage include crabapple, flowering pear, pyracantha, hawthorn, cotoneaster, mountain ash, and other related plants. Current observations note widespread affects in the ornamental apples and ornamental pears.

Damage is typically noticed when twigs wilt and die. The tip of the plant growth exhibits a shepherd’s crook. Symptoms seen later in the season include progressive wilting of the branch as the bacterial canker advances down the stem.

For cultural control immediately prune out and destroy infected tissues. Make pruning cuts at least 6-8 inches below the infected tissues. Sterilize pruning tool(s) between cuts using 70% alcohol or 10% bleach solution.

Other control methods to reduce inflammation of fire blight are to avoid over fertilizing with nitrogen, to not sprinkle irrigate susceptible plants, and inspect plants carefully for cankers or blighted twigs during dormancy.

The best management of fire blight is to select ornamental trees which are resistant to the bacterium. Reference the Pacific Northwest Handbook links below for additional information.

https://pnwhandbooks.org/plantdisease/cultivar-tables/crabapple-cultivar-susceptibility

2020 Fruit Thinning

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley

Posted on: June 11, 2020 by Nic Usabel

Fruits which are crowded should be thinned. Apples, pears, Asian pears, apricots, plums, and peaches all respond positively to thinning. Cherries and nut trees are usually not thinned. Thinning fruit will 1) increase fruit size, 2) improve the trees productivity in the year to come, and 3) reduce limb breakage as fruits begin to size. Too many fruits on a tree translates into small fruit that is often of poor quality.

General rules for thinning: 1) The earlier the better, 2) remove smaller fruits and leave the larger ones, 3) remove fruits with disease spots, hail damage, or other defects, 4) aim for even spacing.

General guidelines by fruit – see links below for additional detail.

Apples & pears: Almost always need thinning. Should be thinned to one per spur with a good spacing of one fruit per 6” of branch. Asian pears spaced at one fruit per 6-8” of branch. Be careful not to break off spurs while thinning – spurs produce flowers and fruit for many years if not broken. Recommend to thin apples within 40 days of full bloom and pears within 60 days of full bloom.

Peaches & nectarines: Should be spaced at one fruit per 6-8” of branch. Fruits that are joined should be removed. Recommend to thin peaches about 70 days past full bloom.

Plums: Should be thinned to have spacing at 6” between fruit along the branch.

Apricots: If tree experiences heavy fruit set thin fruit spaced to 3” along branch.

If you are new to the orchard, know that trees will exhibit “June Drop” which is when the tree will naturally drop fruit. Some prefer to wait until this event happens to thin, however there are great advantages to thinning early. More details can be found in the links below.

2020 Peachtree Borer

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley

Peachtree Borer (Synanthedon exitiosa)

Posted on: June 10, 2020 by Nic Usabel

Peachtree bores have been caught in traps, maintained by Idaho Master Gardeners, in Middleton and Nampa. This pest is a concern for stone fruits: Peach, nectarine, apricot, cherry, and plum. Key symptoms of peachtree borer infestation is the presence of sawdust and frass mixed with the gummy substance near the base of the trunk. Prevention is the best method of control.

Larvae injure the fruit tree primarily by burrowing into the tree trunks just at or below the soil line but may enter trunk up to 12” above the soil line. Larvae feed in the cambium beneath the bark girdling the tree.

Chemical Control, Home Use: For orchards less than 1 acre, or for home yard trees, preventative trunk sprays are the primary control. Apply the first application immediately after first trap catch and repeat application based on product label guidelines. Follow the required pre-harvest interval (time between last application and allowed harvest of fruit) of insecticide product. Apply insecticide as a bark drench at a rate of ½ to 1 gallon of spray mix per tree. Thoroughly cover the lower 12 inches of trunk and soak the ground at the base of tree. Do not allow the sprays to contact fruit. For chemical option review the PNW handbook link below.

Chemical Control, Commercial: Reference the PNW handbook link below to see spring and summer application recommendations.

Cultural Control: Larvae inside the trunks can be killed by inserting a wire into entry holes. Kill larvae in the late summer and fall before they spend the winter and inflict their most extensive feeding damage the following spring. Keep base of tree free of vegetation – heat and dryness reduce the survival of eggs and larvae.

2020 Peach Twig Borer

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley

Peach Twig Borer (Anarsia lineatella)

Posted on: June 4, 2020 by Nic Usabel

Management of the peach twig borer, based on degree days and trap catches, will take place June 5 – June 10. This pest is a concern for those growing peach, nectarine, apricot, plum and prune. Adult moths are 0.3 – 0.5 inches long, with light and dark gray mottled wings. Scales on the front of head cause the head to appear pointed. The larva is a caterpillar, about 0.5 inch long, with a dark brown head and distinctive, alternating light and dark bands on the body.

Larvae injure fruit trees by feeding on the buds and twigs early in the season, then the larvae bore into the shoots, causing a characteristic "flagging" or wilting of the new growth. Later generations of larvae feed within shoots or even on the fruit itself. Flagging of twigs indicates an infestation.

For chemical control management options review the PNW Handbook link below to select a control option appropriate for operation. Apply according to label directions.

For cultural controls prune out shoot strikes in the late spring and early summer as soon as they are detected to prevent these larvae from completing development and contributing to summer generations of the pest. If old shoot strikes are observed during pruning in late winter to early spring, plan to apply early season controls. Old strikes hold onto the dead leaves and appear as “flagged” terminals.

2020 Western Cherry Fruit Fly - ISDA

Tree Fruits    Treasure Valley

Western Cherry Fruit Fly (Rhagoletis indifferens)

Posted on: May 29, 2020 by Paul Castrovillo, Ph.D.

On May 28 the first 2020 Western Cherry Fruit Fly captured in an Idaho State
Department of Agriculture WCFF trap was reported from Canyon County.
Historically we expect to find WCFF in Gem County traps about a week after
the first one is found in Canyon County.

Online phenology and degree-day models for WCFF predicted first flight on
May 24 in Ontario, May 27 in Caldwell and Emmett, May 28 in Parma and Boise
and May 30 in Nampa.

If treatment for WCFF is not already underway it should begin now.

For more information contact Paul Castrovillo at
paul.castrovillo@isda.idaho.gov or call 208-332-8627.

2020 Sequoia Pitch Moth in Pines

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley

Sequoia Pitch Moth in Pines (Synanthedon sequoia)

Posted on: May 28, 2020 by Nic Usabel

The sequoia pitch moth (SPM) has been found in traps. Austrian pine, scotch pine, and other ornamental pines serve as host for the SPM. Primarily found in the truck and large branches where larvae feed on cambium tissue and sapwood. Larvae are found within large resin masses on bark or in a bark notch behind the resin mass.

Damage is primarily aesthetic causing unsightly resin masses on trees. Some trees may experience limb dieback, tree stress or tree death in severe cases. Trees under attack are almost always previously stressed.

There are no recommended insecticide control options for SPM. Management is gained with cultural control; properly plant and keep trees healthy, pick resin masses from the tree and crush larvae within. Avoid pruning or injuring trees April through August while adults are active.

2020 Western Cherry Fruit Fly

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley

Western Cherry Fruit Fly (Rhagoletis indifferens)

Posted on: May 22, 2020 by Nic Usabel

A western cherry fruit fly sample was identified during the University of Idaho Extension, Canyon County Master Gardener plant clinic on May 22. Western cherry fruit fly adults are about 0.2 inch long. They have brownish to black wings with dark bands. White maggots infest cherries. The mature maggot makes a hole in the cherry as it exits. Flies overwinter as pupae in the soil.

Once the cherries start to blush (ripen to a salmon blush color) the fruits are susceptible to egg-laying by the adult females. Consider the maturity of the ripest fruit in the orchard when determining control methods. Spraying a product with the active ingredient kaolin can create a physical barrier that prevents females from laying eggs into the developing fruit. Follow label directions for application. For additional control options see the links below.

Current models indicate the degree days, as of May 21, between 1007 DD and 1030 DD depending on location. Forecasted degree days at 1060 DD is predicted to be May 24.

2020 Leafminer in Leafy Greens

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley

Leafminer (Liriomyza spp.)

Posted on: May 14, 2020 by Nic Usabel

The leafminer (Liriomyza spp.) can be destructive to beets, spinach, chard, and other leafy greens. Leafminer describes the larval stage of various insects but are most commonly those that feed on vegetables. The adults are small black to gray flies with yellow markings in order Diptera.

Leafminer larvae form visible tunnels (mines) as they feed within the leaf tissue affecting the market value of vegetables harvested for edible foliage. Larvae are nearly translucent white or yellow color and about 0.25 inch long when mature.

To control regularly check leaves for mines which are sometimes more visible on the underside. For home gardeners using floating row covers to exclude egg-laying females, removing and destroying infested leaves and preserving natural enemies (parasitic wasps) which help control leafminer populations. See links for additional management options for home and commercial use.

2020 Apple Codling Moth, First Generation Degree Day Update

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley

Codling Moth (Cydia pomonella)

Posted on: May 12, 2020 by Nic Usabel

Data as of May 11, current degree day was 187. Please reference the previous alert at http://pnwpestalert.net/alerts/index/2020-apple-codling-moth-first-generation for more detailed management options.

Options A, 200 DD: Forecasted degree day for May 12 is 195 and May 13 at 202.
Option B, 220 – 250 DD: Forecasted degree day for May 15 is 214 and May 18 at 249.

2020 Apple Codling Moth, First Generation

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley

Codling Moth (Cydia pomonella)

Posted on: May 8, 2020 by Nic Usabel

The first apple codling moths were trapped at the end of April (Biofix on April 25). Currently the degree day model is reporting 131 degree days (DD) as of May 7. There are different management options to consider when controlling this pest.

Option A: Starting at 200 DD, forecasted to be May 11, apply a mixture of water and horticultural oil at 1% concentration to smother egg infestation. Follow with first application of insecticide at 350 DD. Reapply insecticides based on the protection interval stated on the label.

Option B: Starting at 220-250 DD, forecasted to be May 14, apply insecticides that target newly hatched larvae. Reapply insecticides based on the protection interval stated on the label.

Reference publication links to view insecticide options for commercial or residential sites. Commercial products with the active ingredients including; spinetoram, acetamiprid, chlorantraniliprole, etc. Residential products with active ingredients including; lambda-cyhalothrin (restricted use pesticide), or esfenvalerate and Spinosad (general-use pesticides). Non-spray option is to bag the fruit.

This pest needs prevention all season long for clean fruit.

2020 Billbug Grub Control

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley

Billbug Grubs

Posted on: May 6, 2020 by Nic Usabel

The term grub is used to designate the larvae of lawn damaging insects. In Idaho, the most common and destructive is the billbug. There are four species of billbug in Idaho: Bluegrass, Rocky Mountain, Phoenix, and Hunting.

Current degree day modeling indicates that 30% of adult billbugs are present with a forecasted 50% adult billbug activity on May 23. If you commonly experience billbug damage, your neighborhood experiences billbug damage, or you have Kentucky Bluegrass this timeframe can be used to apply a systemic insecticide for controlling billbugs if you desire.

Nonchemical control methods include selecting turf varieties of tall fescue, fine fescue, and perennial ryegrass. Select endophytic cultivar(s) in which a fungus produces a compound toxic to grubs.

Systemic insecticide control is most effective. Choose a product that lists one of the following active ingredients: chlorantraniliprole, clothianidan, imidacloprid, or thiamethoxam. Follow label instructions to ensure safety and success.

2020 Peach Leaf Curl Detected

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley

Peach Leaf Curl (Taphrina deformans)

Posted on: May 4, 2020 by Nic Usabel

The Master Gardeners operating the University of Idaho Extension, Canyon County plant diagnostic clinic have identified samples of peach leaf curl. Peach leaf curl is caused by a fungus (Taphrina deformans) and there are no management options after infection has set in. Dispose of symptomatic leaves which fall to the ground. Control can be achieved in the fall with a single application of fungicides after 90% of leaves have fallen. A follow-up alert with control options will be sent in the fall.

Spores of this fungus overwinter on bark, twigs, and old infected leaves. Infection occurs through bud scales in mid- to late winter just as buds begin to swell. Slow growing shoots and leaves can be infected during cool and wet growing seasons. Maximum susceptibility is between bud break and petal fall.

Lygus Bug - Alfalfa Seed 2020

Alfalfa Seed    Treasure Valley

lygus bug

Posted on: May 4, 2020 by Jerry Neufeld

The Lygus degree day calculator hosted by Integrated Plant Protection Center at Oregon State University and the IPM Centers - PNW Coalition shows that, depending on your location in the Treasure Valley, we have accumulated 242 growing degree days between January 1, 2020 and May 4, 2020. This is 6 days ahead of 2019, and 4 days ahead of the 30-year average. Peak emergence of lygus bug 1st and 2nd instar nymphs should occur right around 272 accumulated growing degree days; this will occur around May 8, and is the time monitoring for lygus bugs in alfalfa seed fields should begin.

When using most insecticides, fields should be treated when numbers of lygus bugs reach 4-5 lygus bug nymphs per 180 degree sweep. Growers using Assail, or Beleaf, as stand-alone sprays probably should treat before 4th instar nymphs are detected.

Below are the instructions for using the degree day calculator.

1) Select the location nearest you by selecting the appropriate pin in the map at the top of the page. The above data are for the Parma location. Results likely will vary depending on the location selected.

2) Select “insects” in the category drop down box under the map, then select the “Lygus bug [alfalfa seed] Ben Simko 2000” model from the “Select model” link to the right of the Model box. It should be model 61 in the list.

3) The predicted date for the 275 degree day accumulation for peak 1st and 2nd instar lygus nymphs will be listed in the “DDs Event” text box. You also can view the full model output by selecting the button labeled “Click here to CALC/ RUN model w/daily output.”

Also, below is the link to the “alfalfa seed-lygus bug” page in the PNW Insect Management Handbook.

2020 Lilac-Ash Borer

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley

Lilac-Ash Borer Podosesia syringae

Posted on: April 29, 2020 by Nic Usabel

The lilac-ash borer (Podosesia syringae), a clear-wing moth, can be a destructive pest of many species of ash (Fraxinus spp.), previt (Ligustrum spp.), lilac (Sryinga spp.).

The Lilac-ash borers have been caught in traps. Adults are short-lived and typically deposit all eggs within a week after emergence. The first spray should be applied 10-20 days after adult emergence, approximately May 5, before the larvae bore into the trunk. Spray should be applied to the trunk and larger limbs, follow label instructions for application and reapplication depending insecticide selected.

Primary insecticides include permethrin (group 3A), bifenthrin (group 3A) and endosulfan (restricted use; group 2A). Please note that imidacloprid (group 4A), a systemic insecticide, is ineffective against lilac-ash borer and should not be used.

Diversifying species in the landscape, maintaining optimum plant health, monitoring, and preventive sprays (if necessary) are the best methods for preventing infestations. Only preventative treatments exist.

2020 Fire Blight - Model Predicts Outbreak Conditions High April 28 - May 2

Apple    Treasure Valley

Fire Blight

Posted on: April 27, 2020 by Nic Usabel

Fire blight is a bacterial plant disease that causes infections through open flowers on apple and pear (Rosaceae family). Infections occur during warm, wet days.

Based on the model, there is a very high potential for infection on open blossoms April 28 – May 2. Fire blight is a disease that needs moisture (precipitation, dew) to cause infection. Higher upcoming temperatures increase the chance for infection with precipitation or dew moisture. Protect the blossoms of young trees and trees that had fire blight last year.

Monitor trees closely starting two weeks after bloom and prune out new infections immediately during dry conditions.

Refer to publications below for additional control methods for your application.

2020 Master Gardener Plant Giveaway - Donations Accepted

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley

Posted on: April 17, 2020 by Maria Held

Canyon County Master Gardeners are holding a Spring Plant Giveaway at Canyon Springs 1444 Cornell St, Middleton, and Fujishin Winery 15593 Sunny Slope Rd, Caldwell on Saturday April 25th from 9 AM to 1 PM.

Donations are appreciated and can be left at each neighborhood site in the donation jar.
Master Gardeners will not be available to interact with the public, but resource materials will be provided.
Please take only the plants that you will use.
Practice Social Distancing.
For variety information please use the link below.

Free Victory Garden Class 2020

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley

Posted on: April 9, 2020 by Maria Held

Are you or people you know thinking about starting or expanding your garden? University of Idaho Extension has updated and opened this online course for free public access for the rest of the year. This popular, family-friendly program is packed with instructional videos, activities, readings and more to help you grow, eat, and preserve food at home, while saving money! This program was created with love for our Idaho communities and gardeners, please share. http://bit.ly/IDVictoryGarden

2020 Peach Leaf Curl Delayed Dormant Spring Application

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley

Posted on: March 5, 2020 by Nic Usabel

If you experienced peach leaf curl during the 2019 growing season, a delayed dormant application before floral buds open is recommended. Spray with an approved copper-based fungicide at the rate listed on the product.

Selecting resistant cultivars offer the best option for backyard growers.

2020 Dormant Oil Spray on Fruit Trees

Landscape & Garden    Treasure Valley

Posted on: February 24, 2020 by Maria Held

With the unusually mild winter and expected warm temperatures this week the buds on fruit trees (especially apricot) are swelling. It is time to apply dormant oil after pruning the trees. This will prevent insect problems for the coming season like aphids and scale.

Treasure Valley Hemp Conference

Announcements    Treasure Valley

Posted on: February 11, 2020 by Stuart Reitz

The Treasure Valley Hemp Conference is an educational and community building event for the hemp industry being held in Ontario Oregon on February 21st and 22nd at the Four Rivers Cultural Center.

Please see the following website for information http://www.treasurevalleyhempconference.com

Fall spray for shothole disease and peach leaf curl

Landscape and Garden    Treasure Valley

Coryneum blight (shothole disease), Taphrina deformans (peach leaf curl)

Posted on: October 22, 2019 by Maria Held

Prevent new coryneum blight (shothole) infections this fall by applying copper to trees when 50% of the leaves have fallen. The disease affects all stone fruits but is mainly a concern in apricot, nectarine and peach.

As peach trees lose their leaves you need to spray for peach leaf curl if you experienced the disease this spring.

Freeze Alert

Landscape and Garden    Treasure Valley

Frost

Posted on: September 28, 2019 by Maria Held

Sunday to Tuesday morning temperatures are forecast to dip near or below freezing. Harvest or cover you sensitive plants to protect them from the low temperatures.

Corn Earworm Counts - 8/14/19

Corn    Treasure Valley

corn earworm

Posted on: August 14, 2019 by Jerry Neufeld

Click on the pdf below to see the corn earworm counts taken this morning. It appears there are still CEW moths in the valley; however, the threat of damage should be getting smaller since the CEW moths lay eggs in fresh silk, and there is less and less fresh silk around each day.

Corn Earworm Counts - 8/6/19

Corn    Treasure Valley

corn earworm

Posted on: August 6, 2019 by Jerry Neufeld

Below are the corn earworm moth counts from this morning, August 6. There may be a few more moths this week, but the counts are still not real high. I am also including moth counts taken from the Grandview area. There are corn earworm moths around the valley, scouting on a more localized basis is still probably a good thing to do. I do not like the way the table displays in this box, so click on the pdf below to see the moth counts.

Blossom End Rot on Summer Squash and Tomato

Landscape and Garden    Treasure Valley

Blossom End Rot on Squash and Tomato

Posted on: July 31, 2019 by Maria Held

Blossom end rot is showing up on summer squash. Tomatoes, peppers, eggplant and even watermelon may be affected. It occurs in the first fruits formed on the plants and is caused by a lack of calcium in the fruit. Most garden soils a sufficient supply of calcium; refer to your soil test results. However, uneven watering may cause symptoms in fast growing plants.

Corn Earworm Counts - 7/31/19

Corn    Treasure Valley

corn earworm

Posted on: July 31, 2019 by Jerry Neufeld

Below are the corn earworm moth counts from this morning. The greatest number of moths were found south of Lake Lowell and near Melba. Still, the numbers are fairly low. I am not aware of any thresholds in Idaho for this pest. According to a Purdue Extension publication entitled CORN INSECT CONTROL RECOMMENDATIONS – 2016, “control is only economically justified on seed, sweet, or popcorn. Treat if 10 or more moths for several consecutive nights are captured in an earworm pheromone trap just before or during silking.” You may want to scout cornfields for this pest, especially south of Lake Lowell and near Melba.

Location Date 7/31/19
South of Caldwell 5
South of Lake Lowell 18
South of Nampa 3
Melba 12
South of Melba 13
SouthWest of Homedale 7
West of Wilder 1
Between Parma & Wilder 3
West of Caldwell 7

Blossom Drop on Tomatoes and Peppers

Landscape and Garden    Treasure Valley

Blossom Drop

Posted on: July 29, 2019 by Maria Held

Gardeners are experiencing blossom drop on their tomatoes and other vegetables. This is due to high daytime > 90 F and low nighttime <55 F temperatures we have been experiencing. Pollen becomes sterile during hot weather. Fertilizer high in nitrogen and lots of water lead to growth of leaves instead of fruit set.

Corn Earworm near Hammett, ID

Corn    Treasure Valley

corn earworm

Posted on: July 25, 2019 by Jerry Neufeld

Sweet corn in the Hammett Idaho area has been found with earworm larvae. It is time to start scouting for this pest is you haven't already done so.

Corn Earworm - 2019

Corn    Treasure Valley

corn earworm

Posted on: July 23, 2019 by Jerry Neufeld

I am once again collaborating with Charter Seed Co. on a project to trap corn earworm moths. Traps will be set out in corn fields at various locations near Dry Lake, Kuna, Melba, Middleton, Wilder, Homedale, and Caldwell. I will check the traps every few days and post the moth counts to this website.

The online Phenology and Degree Day Model (GDD) from Oregon State University is being used to estimate when the summer generation of corn earworm moths will emerge. This is the generation of moths that lay eggs in corn that is silking at the time when they emerge. The link to the GDD calculator for Corn Earworm is below.
The GDD model uses January 1 as a biofix, 55 and 92 as the temperature parameters. Summer moths will emerge after 1300 GDD have accumulated. These moths will then begin laying eggs in fresh corn silk. This model also estimates the eggs will hatch and larvae will begin feeding on corn ears 73 GDD later. According to this model, we will reach 1300 GDD in the Caldwell area about July 28, and will reach 1300 GDD in the Parma area about July 30. This is 6-10 days later than 2018. Egg laying in most, if not all, Treasure Valley locations will take place in this time frame. Larval feeding will begin 3 to 4 days later.

Traps will go out in a couple of days. The first moth counts will be posted a few days after the traps are set out.

The links below will take you to the websites where you can use the growing degree day model and also view various treatment methods based on the type of corn that you are growing.

Beet Leafminer in Gardens

Landscape and Garden    Treasure Valley

Posted on: July 20, 2019 by Maria Held

Are you noticing papery areas or tunneling on you beets, Swiss Chard or spinach? The leafminer fly lays white eggs on the underside of leaves. The resulting larvae burrow inside the leaves to feed. See the links below for management options.

False Chinch Bug Migration

Landscape and Garden    Treasure Valley

Nysius raphanus

Posted on: July 19, 2019 by Maria Held

The Caldwell Extension office has received multiple calls of masses of false chinch bugs. They may aggregate in large numbers on buildings or driveways especially if hosts are harvested or managed with herbicide. See the attached photo of a false chinch bug aggregation on a driveway.
Insecticides will have little, if any, effect for limiting this situation and are not recommended. False chinch bug migrations resulting in nuisance problems in buildings usually are of short duration and rarely last more than a week.

Getting Started with Cover Crops Workshop

All Crops    Treasure Valley

Posted on: July 15, 2019 by Christy Tanner

If you are thinking about trying cover cropping this year, this workshop is designed to help you get started. We will cover species selection, planting, timing and termination. The course is designed for first time cover croppers, but those with more experience are welcome.

Time: 6 pm on Wednesday July 17th

Location: Malheur County Extension Office
710 SW 5th Ave Ontario, OR

Contact: 541-881-1417
christy.tanner@oregonstate.edu

Earwigs Everywhere

Landscape and Garden    Treasure Valley

Forficula auricularia

Posted on: July 12, 2019 by Maria Held

Garden plants commonly injured by earwigs include annual flowers (especially marigolds, dahlias and zinnias), herbs (especially basil), roses, raspberries, strawberries, apricots, peaches, sweet corn tassels and silks. Because earwigs are beneficial due to their predaceous and decomposer feeding habits, they should only be controlled when causing harm. Earwigs are nocturnal. If chewing injury to plants is apparent but no culprit can be found during the day, check the plants at night with a flashlight. If shiny, slime trails are present, snails or slugs are the culprit rather than earwigs. Trapping is an effective way to control the population.

Malheur Experiment Station Field Day July 10, 2019

All Crops    Treasure Valley

Posted on: July 2, 2019 by Janet Jones

You are invited to the Malheur Experiment Station Summer Farm Festival and Annual Field Day!

Place: Malheur Experiment Station, 595 Onion Ave, Ontario, OR

Date: Wednesday, July 10, 2019

Registration starts at 8:00 am with coffee and donuts

Click on the PDF below for the tour descriptions and schedule.

A complimentary lunch will be served at noon.

For more information call Jan Jones at (541) 889-2174 or email janet.jones@oregonstate.edu.

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%

Peach Twig Borer 2019

Landscape and Garden    Treasure Valley

Peach Twig Borer Anarsia lineatella

Posted on: June 17, 2019 by Maria Held

Peach twig borers have been found in a trap in the Payette area. Peach twig borer is the “worm in the peach”.
Peach twig borer larvae prefer to bore into succulent twigs. Later in the season, when twigs become hardened off and unpalatable, larvae feed inside the fruit.

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%

Potato Psyllids in the Treasure Valley

Potato    Treasure Valley

Posted on: June 14, 2019 by Stuart Reitz

Potato psyllids detected in the Treasure Valley.

The potato pest monitoring network in Malheur County found potato psyllids in 45% of checked fields last week (Traps were placed May 31 and collected June 7). A total of 21 psyllids were collected this past week from the 20 fields currently in the monitoring network. The psyllids will be tested for the Zebra Chip bacterium.

For information on psyllid and other pest management in potatoes, please see the 2019 Integrated Pest Management Guidelines for Insects and Mites in Idaho, Oregon and Washington Potatoes, available at http://www.nwpotatoresearch.com/pest-library/pest-management-options/.

Squoia Pitch Moth

Landscape and Garden    Treasure Valley

Synanthedon sequoiae

Posted on: June 6, 2019 by Maria Held

Spitch moth has been found in traps.
The sequoia pitch moth (SMP) is the primary insect that causes large pitch (resin) masses on Austrian, Scotch and other ornamental pines.
SPM is not typically considered a serious pest of pines, but may cause limb dieback, unsightly resin masses, tree stress or tree death in severe cases.
There are no recommended insecticide control options for SPM.
SPM should be managed using cultural controls such as removing resin masses and larvae, proper timing of pruning, eliminating mechanical damage and proper irrigation. Avoid pruning/injuring trees April through August.

Western Cherry Fruit Fly 2019 Update

Cherry    Treasure Valley

Western Cherry Fruit Fly WCFF

Posted on: June 5, 2019 by Paul Castrovillo

On May 29 the first 2019 Western Cherry Fruit Fly captured in an Idaho State Department of Agriculture WCFF trap was reported from Canyon County. Historically we expect to find WCFF in Gem County about a week after the first one is found in Canyon County.
Online phenology and degree-day models for WCFF predicted first flight on May 26 in Emmett, May 28 in Ontario, Parma and Boise and May 29 in Caldwell and Nampa.
If treatment for WCFF is not already underway it should begin now.

Western Cherry Fruit Fly 2019

Landscape and Garden    Treasure Valley

Rhagoletis indifferens

Posted on: June 3, 2019 by Maria Held

Western Cherry Fruit Flies have been detected in Boise. Once your cherries are starting to blush (turning from green to yellow to light pink) it is time to protect them. At that stage the cherries are soft enough for being penetrated. Spraying with Surround (kaolin clay) creates a physical barrier that prevents females from laying eggs into the developing fruit.
See the links below for more options.

Powdery Mildew on Ornamentals

Landscape and Garden    Treasure Valley

Sphaerotheca pannosa var. rosae

Posted on: June 1, 2019 by Maria Held

Powdery mildew continues to be a problem with all the rain we have had. It has been reported on roses and peonies. Powdery mildews are characterized by spots or patches of white to grayish, talcum-powder-like growth.
When available choose resistant or tolerant varieties. The disease is common in crowded plantings where air circulation is poor and in damp, shaded areas. Avoid overhead irrigation once symptoms occur. Do not compost infected plant debris. Temperatures often are not hot enough to kill the fungus.

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

sugarbeet leafminer and armyworm

Sugarbeets    Treasure Valley

leafminer and armyworm

Posted on: May 31, 2019 by Jerry Neufeld

The Amalgamated Sugar Company crop consultants are reporting that pockets of leaf miner and army worm are starting to pop up around various locations in Treasure Valley sugarbeet fields. The links below from the Pacific Northwest Insect Management Handbook describe the damage and also show the damage these pests cause. Please contact your Amalgamated Sugar crop consultant for more details and treatment options.

Aphid Damage

Landscape and Garden    Treasure Valley

Aphid

Posted on: May 16, 2019 by Maria Held

Aphids have been found on trees (ash, plum) and ornamental plants (roses, daisies). Look for sticky sap and curled distorted leaves. A stream of water is often all that is needed to dislodge the insects from the plant.

Cabbage Looper

Landscape and Garden    Treasure Valley

Cabbage Looper Trichoplusia ni

Posted on: May 13, 2019 by Maria Held

Cabbage looper adults (moth) have been caught in pheromone traps.
Cabbage looper larvae feed on all cole crops (cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, Brussel sprouts, kohlrabi, kale) and leave behind frass. Cover you cole crops with row cover or insect barrier to keep out the loopers.

Crops, Soils and Technology Field Day at the UI Parma R and E Center

All Crops    Treasure Valley

Posted on: May 10, 2019 by Jerry Neufeld

The University of Idaho Crops, Soils and Technology Field Day at the UI Parma Research and Extension Center is June 7, 2019; 8:45 to 1:00 pm, followed by lunch. Click on the pdf below for more information.

Peach Leaf Curl Detected

Landscape and Garden    Treasure Valley

Peach Leaf Curl

Posted on: May 7, 2019 by Maria Held

If you are experiencing symptoms of peach leaf curl make sure to spray this fall when most of the leaves are off the tree. Since it is a fungus there are no management options after infection has occurred.

lygus bug-alfalfa seed, 2019

Alfalfa Seed    Treasure Valley

lygus bug

Posted on: May 2, 2019 by Jerry Neufeld

The Lygus degree day calculator hosted by Integrated Plant Protection Center at Oregon State University and the IPM Centers - PNW Coalition shows that, depending on your location in the Treasure Valley, we have accumulated 175 degree days between January 1, 2019 and May 2, 2019. This is 5 days behind 2018, and the same as the 30-year average. Peak emergence of lygus bug 1st and 2nd instar nymphs should occur right around 272 accumulated degree days; this will occur around May 15, and is the time monitoring for lygus bugs in alfalfa seed fields should begin.

When using most insecticides, fields should be treated when numbers of lygus bugs reach 4-5 lygus bug nymphs per 180 degree sweep. Growers using Assail, or Beleaf, as stand-alone sprays probably should treat before 4th instar nymphs are detected.

Below are the instructions for using the degree day calculator.

1) Select the location nearest you by selecting the appropriate pin in the map at the top of the page. The above data are for the Parma location. Results likely will vary depending on the location selected.

2) Select “insects” in the category drop down box under the map, then select the “Lygus bug [alfalfa seed] Ben Simko 2000” model from the “Select model” link to the right of the Model box. It should be model 61 in the list.

3) The predicted date for the 275 degree day accumulation for peak 1st and 2nd instar lygus nymphs will be listed in the “DDs Event” text box. You also can view the full model output by selecting the button labeled “Click here to CALC/ RUN model w/daily output”

Also, below are the links to the “alfalfa seed-lygus bug” page in the PNW Insect Management Handbook, and the Assail label on the Idaho State Department of Agriculture website.

cutworms in sugarbeets in Jamieson, Oregon area

Sugarbeets    Treasure Valley

cutworms

Posted on: April 25, 2019 by Jerry Neufeld

Amalgamated Sugar Company Field Consultant, Aaron Searle is reporting that cutworms and wireworms have been found in sugarbeet fields near Jamieson, Oregon. There are several species of cutworms that attack sugarbeets, but all are nocturnal, so you may see injury but not readily find the insect damaging the sugarbeets. Cutworms are usually worse in fields where there is crop residue, such as following alfalfa or corn. If you see “skips” in the field, dig around in the soil where you would have expected a plant and you will likely find the lower portion of a cut plant. Larvae are often found less than an inch below the soil surface near a damaged plant. Contact your TASCO Field Consultant for treatment options. Below is the link to the PNW Insect Management Handbook for cutworms in sugarbeets.

Spring Garden Festival and Plant Sale

Landscape and Garden    Treasure Valley

Posted on: April 22, 2019 by Maria Held

The Canyon County Master Gardeners Annual Spring Garden Festival and Plant Sale takes place on Saturday, April 27th from 9 am to 3 pm at the Canyon County Extension Office in Caldwell on 501 Main St.
A free Gardening 101 class is scheduled for 10 am and 1 pm. Informational tables on tomato trellising, transplanting, composting and more will be offered. Master Gardeners will be on hand to answer your questions.
A variety of vegetables (lots of tomato and pepper plants), herbs, annual and perennial flowers including succulents and pollinator plants, houseplants and a few shrubs and conifers are available for sale. Prices start at $1 up to $10 depending on type and size of plant.
All proceeds go to Master Gardener Scholarships.

Worker Protection Standard Training

Announcements    Treasure Valley

Posted on: April 3, 2019 by Jerry Neufeld

The Idaho State Department of Agriculture is hosting a Worker Protection Standard, Train the Trainer session in Caldwell, ID April 9, 2019. Click on the pdf below for more information.

Dormant oil spray

Landscape and Garden    Treasure Valley

Posted on: March 15, 2019 by Maria Held

Despite the fact that we call it “dormant oil”, the timing of a horticultural oil spray is not when trees are still dormant. A better term would be a “delayed-dormant” application, because the oil should be applied after bud swell. This coincides with the increasing activity of the overwintering insect, such as aphid eggs, scale nymphs, and peach twig borer larvae.

2019 Treasure Valley Bean School

Dry Beans    Treasure Valley

Posted on: January 11, 2019 by Jerry Neufeld

The 2019 Treasure Valley Bean School will be held at the Hampton Inn in Nampa on January 17. Click on the pdf below for more information.

Pesticide Applicator License Credits for Oregon and Idaho

All Crops    Treasure Valley

Posted on: November 26, 2018 by Jerry Neufeld

If you are still looking for credits for your pesticide applicator's license you are in luck. Oregon State University Extension Service is holding a training on Friday, Dec 14 in Ontario, Oregon. There will be 4 Oregon credits and 3 Idaho credits. Click on the pdf below for more information.

Treasure Valley Tomato Taste Off & Classes

Landscape and Garden    Treasure Valley

Posted on: September 10, 2018 by Maria Held

Did you grow an awesome tomato this summer?
Enter it in the 2nd Annual FREE Treasure Valley Tomato Taste Off at the Indian Creek Festival in Caldwell on Saturday, September 15, 2018!

Entries can be dropped off at the Canyon County Extension Office, 501 Main St, Caldwell on Friday September 14th from 1:00 PM-4:30 PM or bring them to our festival booth from 9:00 AM-10:30 AM on Saturday, September 15, 2018. Questions? Contact the Extension Office @ 208-459-6003
Tasting and voting will be from 11:00 AM-1:00 PM
There will be prizes for the best Slicing, Cherry, and Paste tomato!

Classes will be held in the afternoon
2:00 PM Pollinators: More than Bees
3:00 PM Tomato Basics: From Seed to Salsa
4:00 PM Growing Tomatoes on a Trellis
5:00 PM Canning Tomatoes

Powdery Mildew Outbreak

Landscape and Garden    Treasure Valley

Powdery Mildew

Posted on: September 6, 2018 by Maria Held

Powdery mildew has been observed on squash, zucchini and carrots. It affects almost any type of plant including ornamentals such as peony, lupine and pansies.
Powdery mildews are characterized by spots or patches of white to grayish, talcum-powder-like growth.
It grows readily in our warm and dry climate. When available choose resistant or tolerant varieties. The disease is common in crowded plantings where air circulation is poor and in damp, shaded areas. Avoid overhead irrigation and late summer application of nitrogen fertilizer once symptoms occur. Remove and destroy all infected plant parts (leaves, etc.). Do not compost infected plant debris. Temperatures often are not hot enough to kill the fungus.
Chemicals are most effective when combined with cultural controls.

corn earworm counts 8/9/18

Corn    Treasure Valley

corn earworm

Posted on: August 9, 2018 by Jerry Neufeld

The pdf below has the corn earworm adult moth counts from this morning. There does not appear to be many corn earworm moths in the area. However, scout your fields to be sure.

corn earworm counts 7/30/28

Corn    Treasure Valley

corn earworm

Posted on: July 30, 2018 by Jerry Neufeld

Click on the pdf below for the latest corn earworm moth counts. CEW pressure still seems to be fairly light.

corn earworm counts 7/25/28

Corn    Treasure Valley

corn earworm

Posted on: July 25, 2018 by Jerry Neufeld

Below are the corn earworm counts for 7/25/18 for the Treasure Valley. There does not appear to by very many corn earworm moths around at the moment.

Location 7/25/18
South of Caldwell 0
West of Kuna 2
North of Melba 0
SW of Nampa 5
South of Homedale 1
West of Greenleaf 1
NW of Wilder 0
East of Notus 0

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.

corn earworm - 2018

Corn    Treasure Valley

corn earworm

Posted on: July 11, 2018 by Jerry Neufeld

I am once again collaborating with Crookham Seed Co. on a project to trap corn earworm moths. Traps will be set out in corn fields at various locations near Dry Lake, Kuna, Melba, Middleton, Wilder, Homedale, and Caldwell. I will check the traps every few days and post the moth counts to this website.

The online Phenology and Degree Day Model (GDD) from Oregon State University is being used to estimate when the summer generation of corn earworm moths will emerge. This is the generation of moths that lay eggs in corn that is silking at the time when they emerge. The link to the GDD calculator for Corn Earworm is below.
The GDD model uses January 1 as a biofix, 55 and 92 as the temperature parameters and predicts the summer moths will emerge after 1300 GDD. These moths will then begin laying eggs in fresh corn silk. This model also estimates the eggs will hatch and larvae will begin feeding on corn ears 73 GDD later. According to this model, we will reach 1300 GDD in the Caldwell area about July 22, and will reach 1300 GDD in the Parma area about July 20. Egg laying in most, if not all, Treasure Valley locations will take place in this time frame. Larval feeding will begin 3 to 4 days later.

Traps will go out next week. The first moth counts will be posted a few days after the traps are set out.

The links below will take you to the websites where you can use the growing degree day model and also view various treatment methods based on the type of corn that you are growing.

Cercospora Leaf Spot and Black Bean Aphid- 2018

Sugarbeets    Treasure Valley

cercospora leaf spot and black bean aphid

Posted on: July 6, 2018 by Jerry Neufeld

Amalgamated Sugar Company field consultants are advising sugarbeet growers to scout their fields for Cercospora Leaf Spot and Black Bean Aphids. Conditions are ideal for these pests right now. Both of these pests are currently being found in many sugarbeet fields in the Middleton, Notus and Parma areas. The fungicides and insecticides used on these pests can commonly be tank mixed; however; AMSCO would like you to contact your field representative for specific recommendations. The links below will take you to the Pacific Northwest Handbooks where you can see the chemicals used on these pests, and also see images of them.

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.

Loopers in Sugarbeets - 2018

Sugarbeets    Treasure Valley

loopers

Posted on: June 25, 2018 by Jerry Neufeld

Amalgamated Sugar Company is reporting that loopers have been found in sugarbeet fields in the Caldwell area. These pests will defoliate leaves, leaving only the leaf veins and petioles if left untreated. The link below will take you to the PNW Insect Management Handbook for control measures. If you have any questions, contact your Crop Consultant from Amalgamated Sugar Company for more information.

Western Cherry Fruit Fly 2018

Cherry    Treasure Valley

Western Cherry Fruit Fly

Posted on: May 25, 2018 by Paul Castrovillo

On May 22 the first 2018 Western Cherry Fruit Fly captured in an Idaho State Department of Agriculture WCFF trap was reported from Canyon County. Historically we expect to find WCFF in Gem County about a week after the first one is found in Canyon County.

Online phenology and degree-day models for WCFF predict first flight on May 21 in Ontario and Parma, May 24 in Caldwell, May 25 in Emmett, May 29 in Boise and May 31 in Nampa.

If treatment for WCFF is not already underway it should begin now.

For more information contact Paul Castrovillo at paul.castrovillo@isda.idaho.gov or call 208-332-8627.

Coddling Moth 2018

Apple    Treasure Valley

Posted on: May 21, 2018 by Dian Roberson

Coddling Moth has been detected in traps so it is time to take action! This is a small moth that lays eggs on the blossom end of Apple and Pear fruit. The larvae them bore into and ruin your fruit. Check out the publications and links below to help you choose the best control for your landscape.

sugarbeet root maggot, 2018

Sugarbeets    Treasure Valley

sugarbeet root maggot

Posted on: May 7, 2018 by Jerry Neufeld

The degree day calculator (hosted by the Integrated Plant Protection Center at Oregon State University; http://uspest.org/cgi-bin/ddmodel.us) for the sugar beet root maggot fly shows that—depending on your location in the Treasure Valley—we have accumulated 360 growing degree days since January 1, 2018. Peak flight of root maggot flies should occur after 360 accumulated growing degree days when the maximum high temperature exceeds 80 degrees F. In the Treasure Valley this should be this week.

Root maggot flies will lay eggs near sugarbeet plants. After the larvae hatch they will begin feeding on the young sugarbeets. Look for these pests to appear in the western end of the Treasure Valley first. If you haven’t applied a treatment for sugarbeet root maggot, now is the time to do so. The link below from the 2018 PNW Insect Management handbook contains additional information. Visit with your field consultant from AMSCO for treatment options.

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

2018 Southern Idaho Cropping School

All Crops    Treasure Valley

Posted on: January 15, 2018 by Olga Walsh

2018 Treasure Valley Bean School

Dry Beans    Treasure Valley

Posted on: January 11, 2018 by Jerry Neufeld

The 2018 Treasure Valley Bean School is January 18 at the Hampton Inn in Nampa. There are 2 Idaho Pesticide License credits. Click on the pdf below for more information about the program.

2017 Treasure Valley Irrigation Conference

All Crops    Treasure Valley

Posted on: November 15, 2017 by Jerry Neufeld

The 2017 Treasure Valley Irrigation Conference will be held on December 14, at the Four Rivers Cultural Center in Ontario, Oregon. Click on the pdf below for more details.

Time to spray for Peach Leaf Curl Fungus!

Tree Fruits    Treasure Valley

Peach Leaf Curl

Posted on: October 17, 2017 by Dian Roberson

We had many clients visit our Master Gardener Plant Clinics with peach leaf curl, a fungal infection. As leaf drop occurs in the fall, any open sights become infection points that will carry over to the next growing season. By the time you spray your delayed dormant copper in the spring, these infected sights will have already effected the newly developing leaves.

Now, during leaf drop is the time to apply fall coppers. The first application should be at 30% leaf drop and a second at 70% leaf drop. It is also advisable to use a good sticker product to adhere the copper to the open wounds. The recommended copper use rates will vary based on product choice.

You will also need to repeat the copper fungicide in the spring.

corn earworms counts for August 16

Corn    Treasure Valley

corn earworm

Posted on: August 16, 2017 by Jerry Neufeld

Below are the corn earworm counts by location taken this morning, August 16. The counts are the highest they have been this year, but remember, University of Idaho CIS 366 entitled "Timing Corn Earworm Control" states that corn earworm moths lay eggs in freshly silking corn.


Weekly Corn Earwom Counts, 2017


Location 7/25, 8/1, 16-Aug

Melba 51, 3, 1
South Nampa 3, 17, 26
South Caldwell 12, 15, 51
Huston 15, 6, 7
Homedale 10, 22, 38
Wilder 41, 23, 29
Middleton 5, 12, 27
totals 137, 98, 179

Curly Top confirmed in Peppers and Beets!

Landscape and Garden    Treasure Valley

Posted on: August 4, 2017 by Dian Roberson

We have confirmed cases of Beet Curly Top Virus in both peppers and sugar beets. It also infects a wide range of crops such as tomatoes, beans, beets, cucurbits, spinach, and squash. The virus is spread by the beet leafhopper, Circulifer tenellus. Read the articles below for identification and control information!

corn earworms counts for August 1

Corn    Treasure Valley

corn earworm

Posted on: August 1, 2017 by Jerry Neufeld

Corn earworm traps with pheromone lures were set out at 7 locations two weeks ago. Below are the moth counts taken from these traps as of August 1. Moth counts are higher this year than they have been for several years.

Location 7/25, 8/1

Melba 51, 3
South Nampa 3, 17
South Caldwell 12, 15
Huston 15, 6
Homedale 10, 22
Wilder 41, 23
Middleton 5, 12

Totals 137, 98

corn earworm counts from July 25

Corn    Treasure Valley

corn earworm

Posted on: July 25, 2017 by Jerry Neufeld

Corn earworm traps with pheromone lures were set out at 7 locations last week. Below are the moth counts taken from these traps on July 25. I have not seen moth counts this high for several years. I have also talked with industry people that say they are seeing a lot of moths this year.
Location 7/25/17/

Melba 51
South Nampa 3
South Caldwell 12
Huston 15
Homedale 10
Wilder 41
Middleton 5

Total 137

Corn Earworm might be a bit early

Corn    Treasure Valley

corn earworm

Posted on: July 16, 2017 by Jerry Neufeld

After I posted the forecasting alert about corn earworm a few days ago, I received an email stating that the summer generation of corn earworm moths has already made an appearance in the MIddleton area. The grower stated they have never had corn earworm before, but they have them this year. It could be that the models are off by a few days, regardless, with this information it would be wise to start scouting for corn earworm now.

Corn Earworm 2017

Corn    Treasure Valley

corn earworm

Posted on: July 12, 2017 by Jerry Neufeld

I am once again collaborating with Charter Seed Co. and Crookham Seed Co. on a project to trap corn earworm moths. Traps will be set out in corn fields at various locations near Dry Lake, Kuna, Melba, Middleton, Wilder, Homedale, and Caldwell. I will check the traps every few days and post the moth counts to this website.

The online Phenolgy and Degree Day Model (GDD) from Oregon State University is being used to estimate when the summer generation of corn earworm moths will emerge. This is the generation of moths that lay eggs in corn that is silking at the time when they emerge. The link to the GDD calculator for Corn Earworm is below.

The GDD model uses January 1 as a biofix, 55 and 92 as the temperature parameters and predicts the summer moths will emerge after 1300 GDD. These moths will then begin laying eggs in fresh corn silk. This model also estimates the eggs will hatch and larvae will begin feeding on corn ears 73 GDD later. According to this model, we will reach 1300 GDD in the Caldwell area about July 22, and will reach 1300 GDD in the Parma area about July 31. Egg laying in most, if not all, Treasure Valley locations will take place in this time frame. Larval feeding will begin 3 to 4 days later.

Traps will go out next week. The first moth counts will be posted a few days after the traps are set out.

The links below will take you to the websites where you can use the growing degree day model and also view various treatment methods based on the type of corn that you are growing.

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.

Armyworms, Loopers and False Celery Leaftier in Sugarbeets

Sugarbeets    Treasure Valley

army worms, loopers, False Celery Leaftier

Posted on: June 29, 2017 by Jerry Neufeld

Kevin Foulger, Crop Consultant with Amalgamated Sugar Company is reporting that loopers, armyworms and False Celery Leaftier have been found in sugarbeet fields on the west end of the Treasure Valley, mostly in the Adrian area. These pests will defoliate leaves, leaving only the leaf veins and petioles if left untreated. The links below will take you to the PNW Insect Management Handbook for control measures. I have also attached a couple of images provided by Kevin. If you have any questions, contact your Crop Consultant from Amalgamated Sugar Company for more information.

Thrips

All Crops    Treasure Valley

Thrips

Posted on: June 16, 2017 by Dian Roberson

We have confirmed thrips on grapes and many other landscape ornamentals.Thrips are very tiny, skinny, insects, less than 0.05 inch long. Color varies from reddish-yellow to mid-dark brown. Thrips have rasping mouthparts and damage plants by sucking out the contents of plant cells and depositing tiny specks of honeydew. Damaged leaves look bleached and/or silvered and speckled with shiny "tar-spot" excreted by thrips during feeding. They can damage flower buds, opened flowers, leaf buds and leaves.

National Pollinator Week!

All Crops    Treasure Valley

Posted on: June 16, 2017 by Dian Roberson

Join us for a week full of fun events in Canyon County!

Saturday, June 17 – Kick off the week at the Nampa Farmers Market 9:00 am – 1:00 pm. Kids of all ages can get free flower seeds to attract pollinators!

Monday, June 19 - Join us at 1904 E Chicago Ave from 7:00 – 9:00 pm Rich Guggenheim will talk about Pollinator Gardens.

Tuesday, June 20 - Backyard Honey Bees 7:00 – 9:00 pm. 1904 E Chicago Ave in Caldwell. 208-459-6003.

Wednesday, June 21 –Caldwell Farmers Market 3:00 – 7:00 pm kid’s activities and information about attracting pollinators. 4:30 City of Caldwell Pollinator Proclamation!

Thursday, June 22 –Nampa Library 1:00 – 3:00 pm Pollinators all a Buzz!! Create a flower seed bomb.

Friday, June 23 –West Park in Nampa with Canyon County Master Gardeners make insect hotels. Construct and take home a mini bee board. We will dedicate our Bee-Inn 7-9 PM

Saturday, June 24 – Join us at 9 AM for the Grand Finale at the Northern Lights Theatre in Nampa for a showing of Disney’s “Wings of Life!” Contact Northern Lights Theatre for ticket information. 208- 475-2999

Western Cherry Fruit Fly (WCFF) Announcement 2017

Cherry    Treasure Valley

Western Cherry Fruit Fly

Posted on: June 9, 2017 by Paul Castrovillo

On May 26 the first Western Cherry Fruit Fly captured in an Idaho State Department of Agriculture WCFF trap in Nampa, ID was reported. Two more WCFF were found today (June 7) in traps set up in Emmett, ID during early May. If treatment for WCFF is not already underway it should begin now.

For more information contact Paul Castrovillo at paul.castrovillo@isda.idaho.gov or call 208-332-8627

Snake River Weed Research Tour at the Malheur Experiment Station on June 14

Announcements    Treasure Valley

Posted on: June 7, 2017 by Bill Buhrig

It is time for the annual Weed Research Tour at the Malheur Experiment Station! The public is invited to attend. Read on for more information!

Place: Malheur Experiment Station, 595 Onion Ave, Ontario, OR

Date: Wednesday, June 14, 2017

Registration starts at 8:00am with coffee and donuts

The tour will start promptly at 8:30AM and end at 12:00PM.
A complementary lunch will be served at the conclusion of the tour.
Pesticide recertification credits for Idaho and Oregon will be available

The tour will feature research studies for weed management in direct-seeded onion, sugar beet, field corn, sweetpotato, wheat, and potato. The first stop will be at our yellow nutsedge “field laboratory” along Hwy 201 just before crossing the rail tracks (if headed north to Ontario from Nyssa). The stop along Hwy 201 will feature studies on yellow nutsedge control in onion, sugar beet, and field corn. We will then proceed to the station and tour studies on weed control in direct-seeded onion, sweetpotato, field corn, and potato.

Please call 541-889-2174 or email janet.jones@oregonstate.edu if you need more information. Please check out the link for more events coming your way from the good folks at the Malheur Experiment Station.

U of Idaho Parma Field Day

Announcements    Treasure Valley

Posted on: May 25, 2017 by Jerry Neufeld

The University of Idaho will be hosting a Field Day at the Parma R and E Center on June 21, 2017. Lunch and refreshments will be provided. Please RSVP by calling 722-6701 or emailing laphillips@uidaho.edu to let them know you plan to attend. For additional information click on the pdf below.

Native Wildflower Seed Production Field Day

Announcements    Treasure Valley

Posted on: May 11, 2017 by Bill Buhrig

The Annual Malheur Experiment Station Native Wildflower Seed Production Field Day is only one week away!

You are welcome to attend on Thursday, May 18, 2017 at the Experiment Station located at 595 Onion Ave just a few miles out of Ontario.

Registration begins at 8:30 AM, Event begins at 9:00 AM and complimentary lunch will be served. Please reserve lunch by calling Janet Jones at (541) 889-2174 or by emailing her at janet.jones@oregonstate.edu.

Check out the link for more info!

Western Cherry Fruit Fly (WCFF) Anouncement

Cherry    Treasure Valley

Western Cherry Fruit Fly

Posted on: May 8, 2017 by Dian Roberson

This week the Idaho State Department of Agriculture set out traps for its annual Western Cherry Fruit Fly (WCFF) survey in Canyon and Gem counties. They will be monitoring the traps for first capture of WCFF as an indication that the flies are emerging in those locations and that treatment should begin.

Online phenology and degree-day modeling for WCFF predicts first flight on May 25 in Ontario/Parma, May 26 in Nampa, May 27 in Caldwell/Emmett and
May28 in Boise.

For more information contact Paul Castrovillo at paul.castrovillo@isda.idaho.gov or call 208-332-8627

Predicted Lygus emergence

Alfalfa Seed    Treasure Valley

Lygus bug

Posted on: April 7, 2017 by Jerry Neufeld

The Lygus degree day calculator hosted by Integrated Plant Protection Center at Oregon State University and the IPM Centers - PNW Coalition shows that, depending on your location in the Treasure Valley, we have accumulated 78 degree days between January 1, 2017 and April 6, 2017. This is 8 days behind compared to this date in 2016 and 7 days ahead of the 30-year average. Peak emergence of lygus bug 1st and 2nd instar nymphs should occur right around 272 accumulated degree days: this usually occurs around mid-May, and is the time monitoring for lygus bugs in alfalfa seed fields should begin. Right now that is predicted to occur about May 15.

When using most insecticides, fields should be treated when numbers of lygus bugs reach 4-5 lygus bug nymphs per 180 degree sweep. Growers using Assail, or Beleaf, as stand-alone sprays probably should treat before 4th instar nymphs are detected. We will plan to put out another alert in early May, but you can monitor degree day accumulation using the link provided below as follows:

1) Select the location nearest you by selecting the appropriate pin in the map at the top of the page. The above data are for the Parma location. Results likely will vary depending on the location selected.

2) Select “insects” in the category drop down box under the map, then select the “Lygus bug [alfalfa seed] Ben Simko 2000” model from the “model params” drop down box.

3) The predicted date for the 272 degree day accumulation for peak 1st and 2nd instar lygus nymphs will be listed in the “DDs Event” text box. You also can view the full model output by selecting the button labeled “Click here to CALC/ RUN model w/daily output”

The link below will take you to the growing degree day model.

Thanks for Dr. Jim Barbour for this information.

Nampa Chamber of Commerce Ag Forum

Announcements    Treasure Valley

Posted on: January 13, 2017 by Jerry Neufeld

The Nampa Chamber of Commerce is sponsoring an “Ag Forum” on Wed, February 8, 2017 at the Ford Idaho Center. Lt. Governor Brad Little and ISDA Director Celia Gould will be speaking. The keynote speaker is Michael Swanson, Ph.D. Wells Fargo Chief Agricultural Economist. Click on the pdf below for more information.

PAT Recertification Training and TV Irrigation Conference

All Crops    Treasure Valley

Posted on: November 28, 2016 by Jerry Neufeld

I just want to remind everyone about two events next week in Canyon County. The University of Idaho Extension, Idaho State Department of Agriculture, Oregon State University Extension Service and industry sponsors are collaborating to conduct two educational events next week. A Pesticide Applicator Recertification Training and the Treasure Valley Irrigation Conference will be held on December 14 and 15. Click on the files below for more information. There is a new file attached that shows the agendas for the day. See you next week!

Pesticide Recertification Class in Malheur County

All Crops    Treasure Valley

Posted on: November 18, 2016 by Bill Buhrig

The Malheur County Extension Office will be holding its annual pesticide credit recertification meeting on December 9, 2016. We will run from 8am to noon and pre-registration is preferred. Give us a call and talk to Bobbi at 541-881-1417. The room can fill up sometimes so do not delay and make sure you get a spot. Four Oregon Core credit hours will be available. This class will also count for four Idaho pesticide applicator credits. Course cost is $10.

Canyon & Owyhee County Conservation District Tour

All Crops    Treasure Valley

Posted on: September 9, 2016 by Bill Buhrig

An opportunity to learn more about no-till planting, cover crops as forage, and free range chickens (wait, chickens?) are but a few of the topics available to interested folks on a tour being offered on September 22nd. This free tour is sponsored by the Canyon and Owyhee Conservation Districts, NRCS and the Lower Boise Watershed Council and will originate from the USDA office in Marsing @ 9:00AM sharp. Local farmers will be showing their work on the aforementioned topics and how they pertain to improving water quality and soil health. It promises to be a good time and they will feed you lunch at the tour conclusion for free! The gang does ask that you RSVP to Lori @ 208-454-8684 x126 by September 19th. Check out the attached flier.

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!

Corn Earworm moth counts for August 10

Corn    Treasure Valley

corn earworm

Posted on: August 10, 2016 by Jerry Neufeld

Below is the final corn earworm count for this year. There didn’t seem to be a lot of corn earworm this year. That is what I have found for the last couple of years. I would appreciate hearing from you if you had a different experience.
Dry Lake 4
Kuna 1
Melba 10
Homedale 14
Wilder 8
Parma 2
Caldwell 0
total 39

Corn Earworm counts for August 4

Corn    Treasure Valley

corn earworm

Posted on: August 4, 2016 by Jerry Neufeld

Here are the corn earworm moth counts from this morning. The greatest number of moths were trapped in the Homedale area. Still, the numbers are fairly low. According to a Purdue Extension publication entitled CORN INSECT CONTROL RECOMMENDATIONS – 2016, “control is only economically justified on seed, sweet, or popcorn. Treat if 10 or more moths for several consecutive nights are captured in an earworm pheromone trap just before or during silking.” You may want to scout cornfields, especially n the Homedale area, for this pest.

Dry Lake 5
Kuna 6
Melba 7
Homedale 27
Wilder 5
Parma 3
Caldwell 1
total 54

Corn Earworm moth counts for July 27

Corn    Treasure Valley

corn earworm

Posted on: July 27, 2016 by Jerry Neufeld

I am still not seeing much in the way of corn earworm moths. Below is the count that was taken this morning.


Location 7/27

Dry Lake 1
Kuna 0
Melba 4
Homedale 2
Wilder 2
Parma 2
Caldwell 0

Total 11

Corn Earworm counts for July 22

Corn    Treasure Valley

corn earworm

Posted on: July 22, 2016 by Jerry Neufeld

A few corn earworm moths (adults) are starting to show up in the traps I set out earlier this week. Although, the numbers are low. Below are the moth counts from this morning, July 22.

Dry Lake 0
Kuna 1
Melba 4
Homedale 4
Wilder 1
Parma 0
Caldwell 1
11

I am not aware of treatment thresholds for this pest in Idaho, however, the following excerpt was taken from an Extension Publication from Purdue University.

Management Guidelines
Corn Insect Control Recommendations: E-series 219-W

For seed production fields, if 10 or more moths are captured in a pheromone trap for several consecutive nights, economic damage is possible. However, only fields silking and/or pollinating during this time are candidates for treatment.
You may want to step up your field scouting and work closely with your crop consultant to determine if a treatment is necessary.

Corn Earworm 2016

Corn    Treasure Valley

corn earworm

Posted on: July 11, 2016 by Jerry Neufeld

I am once again collaborating with Charter Seed Co. and Crookham Seed Co. on a project to trap corn earworm moths. Traps will be set out in corn fields at various locations near Dry Lake, Kuna, Melba, Wilder, Homedale, and Caldwell. I will check the traps every few days and post the moth counts to this website.
There are a couple of models that can be used to predict the emergence of the summer generation of corn earworm moths. This is the generation of moths that lay eggs in corn that is silking at the time of their emergence.

One model uses January 1 as a biofix, 55 and 92 as the temperature parameters and predicts the summer moths will appear after 1300 growing degree days (GDD). These moths will then begin laying eggs in fresh corn silk. This model also estimates the eggs will hatch and larvae will begin feeding on corn ears 73 GDD later. According to this model, we will reach 1300 GDD in the Parma area on 7/23 and 1300 GDD in the Caldwell area on 7/23. Egg laying in most, if not all, Treasure Valley locations will take place about this same time. This is about 9 days later than 2015.

The second model simply uses 8/1 as the default date that the summer moths will emerge and begin laying eggs in fresh corn silk. I do not think this model will be of value this year.

Traps will go out early next week. The first moth counts will be posted a few days after the traps are set out.

The links below will take you to the websites where you can view the growing degree day model and also view various treatment methods based on the type of corn that you are growing.

Peach Twig Borer

Tree Fruits    Treasure Valley

Peach Twig Borer

Posted on: June 15, 2016 by Dian Roberson

It is time to spray for Peach twig borer. This is a major pest of apricots, peaches, plums, and prunes. There are no known hosts outside the orchard. The larvae injure fruit and trees. Feeding on the buds and twigs occurs early in the season, after which the larva bores into the shoots, causing a characteristic "flagging" or wilting of the new growth. Later generations of larvae feed on shoots or fruit, disfiguring the fruit. Flagging of twigs indicates an infestation.

Stripe Rust in Parma Area

Wheat    Treasure Valley

stripe rust

Posted on: May 11, 2016 by Jerry Neufeld

Dr. Oliver Neher (AMSCO Pathologist) and Dr. Olga Walsh (UI Parma Research and Extension Center) have found and confirmed stripe rust in the winter wheat nursery plots at the University of Idaho, Parma R&E Center.

Below is information Dr. Juliet Marshall (University of Idaho Cereals Extension Specialist) posted on this website regarding stripe rust a few days ago.

I highly recommend that anyone with a field of Brundage examine it closely for stripe rust, looking especially at lower leaves that could have been infected last fall. Snow cover protects wheat as well as the stripe rust from freezing temperatures. Fields that have been under snow will serve as good reservoirs for stripe rust to carry into our spring wheat.

All susceptible varieties should be scouted weekly from now on. Please report infected fields (the approximate location) and send pictures so I can keep alerts updated as the season progresses (jmarshall@uidaho.edu). This helps everyone!

Strobilurin fungicides are excellent preventative fungicides, as are triazoles. Triazoles (or triazole and strobilurin mixes) are more effective if there is a field with established infections. The attached table is (not a complete) list of fungicides put together by a group of pathologists belonging to the NCERA-184, with ratings for degree of control of several wheat diseases.

At this point:
1) Spray fungicides at herbicide timing on susceptible varieties of winter wheat.
2) Select resistant spring varieties, if possible.
3) Be prepared to spray susceptible winter and spring varieties as needed to protect from yield loss - this may be two or more applications of fungicides during the growing season.
4) Scout ALL varieties as there are sometimes changes in the fungal strains, and those varieties that are currently resistant may become susceptible if there are race changes in the fungi.

The use of resistant varieties is the most sustainable and economically viable method of stripe rust control. Breeders work hard to develop resistant varieties in order to help growers save input costs. It is not necessary to spray resistant varieties – in fact, not spraying resistant varieties will contribute to longer-term effectiveness of available fungicides.

Codling Moth at 310 Degree Days

Landscape and Garden    Treasure Valley

Codling Moth

Posted on: May 2, 2016 by Rich Guggenheim

Codling Moth Degree Days have reached 310 DD

The peak egg hatch period has begun. Chemical sprays loose effectiveness quickly on expanding fruits . It is important that your fruit is protected with insecticide to prevent larval entry. Keep track of when your first treatment was applied and how long it lasts. If it is waning during the period of peak egg hatch, consider applying your second application sooner (by 1-2 days).

Insecticides that target both larva and egg stages are recommended. Such as: Altacor, Assail, Calypso, and Intrepid. Homeowners should use horticulture oil with a product such as sevin for their first spray. The oil will smother unhatched eggs and the sevin will protect the fruit from hatched larva. Good residue coverage on your fruit is vital during the first generation.

Read and follow all label instructions when applying pesticides. If you use a pyrethroid based insecticides, chose a different class pesticide for your second spray, such as Assail, Calypso, Intrepid, or Imidan. Insects develop resistance to pyrethroids very quickly.

sugarbeet root maggot, 2017

Sugarbeets    Treasure Valley

sugarbeet root maggot

Posted on: April 26, 2016 by Jerry Neufeld

The degree day calculator (hosted by the Integrated Plant Protection Center at Oregon State University; http://uspest.org/cgi-bin/ddmodel.us) for the sugar beet root maggot fly shows that—depending on your location in the Treasure Valley—we have accumulated nearly 360 growing degree days since January 1, 2017. Peak flight of root maggot flies should occur after 360 accumulated growing degree days when the maximum high temperature exceeds 80 degrees F. In the Treasure Valley this will be very soon.

Root maggot flies will lay eggs near sugarbeet plants. After the larvae hatch they will begin feeding on the young sugarbeets. Look for these pests to appear in the western end of the Treasure Valley first. If you haven’t applied a treatment for sugarbeet root maggot, now is the time to do so. The link below from the 2017 PNW Insect Management handbook contains additional information. Visit with your field consultant from AMSCO for treatment options.

Parma/Malheur Cropping Systems Agronomy Field Day - JUNE 20, 8:30 AM

All Crops    Treasure Valley

Posted on: April 25, 2016 by Olga Walsh

Contact information: Olga Walsh (University of Idaho, Parma R&E Center): owalsh@uidaho.edu; Bill Buhrig (Oregon State University, Malheur ES): William.Buhrig@oregonstate.edu

LOCATION: University of Idaho, Parma R&E Center, 29603 U of I Lane, Parma, ID, 83660.

Time Activity

8:30 am – 9:00 am Registration

9:00 am – 12 noon Touring the experimental plots/demos

12:00 noon – 1 pm Lunch/indoor presentations


Crops/topics covered: winter &amp; spring wheat, beans, corn, fresh peas/mustard/wheat rotations, nutrient management, water management, weed management, unmanned aerial vehicles, crop sensors. Detailed information will follow shortly.

Please consider to attend/present and spread the word about the field day.

Lygus Emergence in Alfalfa Seed

Alfalfa Seed    Treasure Valley

lygus bug

Posted on: April 19, 2016 by Jerry Neufeld

Thanks to Dr. Jim Barbour, IPM Specialist at the University of Idaho, SW Idaho Research and Extension Center (Parma) for providing this information about Lygus emergence in alfalfa seed.
The Lygus degree day calculator hosted by Integrated Plant Protection Center at Oregon State University and the IPM Centers - PNW Coalition (http://pnwpest.org/cgi-bin/ddmodel.pl?spp=lyg) shows that, depending on your location in the Treasure Valley, we have accumulated 137 degree days between January 1, 2016 and April 19, 2016. Peak emergence of lygus bug 1st and 2nd instar nymphs should occur right around 272 accumulated degree days: this usually occurs around mid-May, and is the time monitoring for lygus bugs in alfalfa seed fields should begin. Right now peak emergence is predicted to occur about the first week of May ( ~May 5). This is about 8 days ahead of the 30 year average.

When using most insecticides, fields should be treated when numbers of lygus bugs reach 4-5 lygus bug nymphs per 180 degree sweep. Growers using Assail, or Beleaf, as stand-alone sprays probably should treat before 4th instar nymphs are detected. You can monitor degree day accumulation using the link provided above as follows:

1) Select the location nearest you by selecting the appropriate pin in the map at the top of the page. The above data are for the Parma location. Results likely will vary depending on the location selected.
2) Select “insects” in the category drop down box under the map, then select the “Lygus bug [alfalfa seed] Ben Simko 2000” model from the “model Parma” drop down box.

3) The predicted date for the 275 degree day accumulation for peak 1st and 2nd instar lygus nymphs will be listed in the “DDs Event” text box. You also can view the full model output by selecting the button labeled “Click here to CALC/ RUN model w/daily output.”

Barley Yellow Dwarf Virus in the Treasure Valley

Small Grains    Treasure Valley

Barley Yellow Dwarf Virus

Posted on: April 8, 2016 by Jerry Neufeld

Dr. Olga Walsh, Research Assistant Professor of Cropping Systems Agronomy, at the U of Idaho Southwest Idaho Research and Extension Center (Parma) is reporting that Barley Yellow Dwarf virus has been identified in winter wheat fields near Parma and near Nampa. Click on the link below to see images of BYDV in winter wheat. Dr. Juliet Marshall posted an alert on April 5, 2016 containing a great deal of management information about BYDV.

Cereal Leaf Beetle near Parma

Small Grains    Treasure Valley

Cereal Leaf Beetle

Posted on: April 8, 2016 by Jerry Neufeld

Dr. Olga Walsh, Research Assistant Professor of Cropping Systems Agronomy, at the U of Idaho Southwest Idaho Research and Extension Center (Parma) is reporting that cereal leaf beetle adults are actively flying in winter wheat fields near Parma. Adults have been laying eggs and larvae are beginning to emerge. The cereal leaf beetle has a variety of hosts among cereals and grasses with preference to oat, barley, wheat, rye, timothy, fescue, grain sorghum and corn. Substantial crop yield loss and quality decrease can be expected due to lost photosynthetic activity resulting from the feeding damage.

Scouting of fields is vital both before and during the boot stage to assess for cereal leaf beetle presence and damage. It is recommended to scout weekly by walking through the field in a “W” pattern for best coverage. Stop at 5-10 locations depending on field size and examine 10 plants per location. Count the number of eggs and larvae per plant for smaller plants or per stem for larger plants.
Treatment thresholds: 3 larvae per plant and/or 3 eggs per plant before boot stage, and 1 larva per flag leaf after boot stage.

Click on the links below for management information from the 2016 PNW Insect Management Handbook and to see images of CLB life stages.

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.

7th Annual Soil Health Symposium

Announcements    Treasure Valley

Posted on: January 19, 2016 by Jerry Neufeld

The 7th annual Soil Health Symposium will be held at the Four Rivers Cultural Center in Ontario, Oregon on February 18, 2016. Click on the pdfs below for more information.

Malheur County Core Pesticide Recertification Class

All Crops    Treasure Valley

Posted on: November 23, 2015 by Bill Buhrig

Oregon private applicators can meet their core credit needs with this course on December 11th. Cost is $10. Please refer to the link for more information and the registration form. The four credits offered will also apply to Oregon commercial and public applicators and Idaho private and commercial applicators.

University of Idaho, Snake River Sugarbeet Conference

Sugarbeets    Treasure Valley

Posted on: November 18, 2015 by Jerry Neufeld

Click on the pdf below for more information about the University of Idaho, Snake River Sugarbeet Conference. The conference is being held in Boise on December 9 and in Burley on December 10.

Upcoming Educational Events in the Treasure Valley

All Crops    Treasure Valley

Posted on: November 12, 2015 by Jerry Neufeld

Attached are flyers with information about three upcoming educational events; 1) Pesticide Applicator Recertification Training in Caldwell on December 16. 2) Treasure Valley Irrigation Conference in Ontario, OR on Dec 17. and 3) Soil Health Symposium in Ontario, OR on February 18, 2016. Click on the files below for more 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.

corn earworm

Corn    Treasure Valley

corn earworm

Posted on: August 6, 2015 by Jerry Neufeld

Below are the corn earworm moth counts from this morning, August 6. Corn earworm moths lay eggs in corn with fresh silk. Since silking is done for the year, this will be my last corn earworm count for the growing season.

Melba Area 0
South of Nampa 0
Middleton Area 0
Parma Area 8
Wilder Area 44
Homedale Area 4
Pride Lane 0

Spider Mites

All Crops    Treasure Valley

Spider MItes

Posted on: July 31, 2015 by Stuart Reitz

Two-spotted spider mites are being found in bean and mint fields in the Treasure Valley. With the return of very hot weather, spider mite populations may build up rapidly to damaging levels.

Scout bean, mint and other susceptible crops, such as sugar beets, corn, and potato, to determine if action is necessary. For more information on two-spotted spider mites, consult the PNW Insect Handbook at the link below and contact the extension office.

Grape Mealybugs

All Crops    Treasure Valley

grape mealybugs

Posted on: July 30, 2015 by Jerry Neufeld

Large numbers of male grape mealybugs have been found in two of the pheromone lure traps in the winegrape research vineyard trial plots in Parma between 7/23 and 7/29 . Mealybugs damage grapes by contaminating clusters with cottony egg sacs, larvae, adults, and honeydew. To date, we have not seen any evidence of crawlers, egg sacs or females on any winegrape vines in the vineyard trial plots.

In the winegrape research trial plots we have made 3 pesticide applications for mealybug this season- a late dormant oil, an early season and a July 17 foliar application of Provado (thiacloprid) - so it is likely that we are trapping males from a source outside of the winegrape trial plots. Susceptibility to mealybug damage varies by variety. It is worse on varieties that produce clusters close to the base of the shoot because the fruit often touches old wood. There is also the potential for the grape mealybug to vector leaf roll virus in grapes. For more information on this pest, including photos and management strategies, visit http://insect.pnwhandbooks.org/tree-fruit/apple/apple-grape-mealybug and http://www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/PMG/r302301811.html.

Grape Mealybugs

All Crops    Treasure Valley

grape mealybugs

Posted on: July 30, 2015 by Jerry Neufeld

Large numbers of male grape mealybugs have been found in two of the pheromone lure traps in the winegrape research vineyard trial plots in Parma between 7/23 and 7/29 . Mealybugs damage grapes by contaminating clusters with cottony egg sacs, larvae, adults, and honeydew. To date, we have not seen any evidence of crawlers, egg sacs or females on any winegrape vines in the vineyard trial plots.

In the winegrape research trial plots we have made 3 pesticide applications for mealybug this season- a late dormant oil, an early season and a July 17 foliar application of Provado (thiacloprid) - so it is likely that we are trapping males from a source outside of the winegrape trial plots. Susceptibility to mealybug damage varies by variety. It is worse on varieties that produce clusters close to the base of the shoot because the fruit often touches old wood. There is also the potential for the grape mealybug to vector leaf roll virus in grapes. For more information on this pest, including photos and management strategies, visit http://insect.pnwhandbooks.org/tree-fruit/apple/apple-grape-mealybug and http://www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/PMG/r302301811.html.

Corn Earworm

Corn    Treasure Valley

corn earworm

Posted on: July 30, 2015 by Jerry Neufeld

It appears corn earworm moths (adults) are starting to show up in slightly larger numbers, although, my trapping numbers are still fairly low. Below are the moth counts from this morning, July 30.

Melba Area 0
South of Nampa 0
Middleton Area 3
Parma Area 4
Wilder Area 18
Homedale Area 12
Pride Lane 0

I am not aware of Idaho treatment thresholds for this pest, however, the following excerpt was taken from an Extension Publication from Purdue University.

Management Guidelines
Corn Insect Control Recommendations: E-series 219-W (PDF)
For seed production fields, if 10 or more moths are captured in a pheromone trap for several consecutive nights, economic damage is possible. However, only fields silking and/or pollinating during this time are candidates for treatment.

You may want to step up your field scouting and work closely with your crop consultant to determine if a treatment is necessary.


Pomology Program Annual Fruit Field Day

All Crops    Treasure Valley

Posted on: July 29, 2015 by Jerry Neufeld

The University of Idaho Annual Fruit Field Day will be held on Friday August 28, 2015; 8:30 am to 1:00 pm at the U of I Parma Research and Extension Center Pomology Orchard and Vineyard site, about 4 miles north of Parma, Idaho. The registration will start at 8:30 am and program will start at 9:00 am (sharp). Click on the pdf below for more details.

Corn Earworm

Corn    Treasure Valley

corn earworm

Posted on: July 23, 2015 by Jerry Neufeld

I checked the corn earworm traps today. I found a few, but not too many. Below are the counts.

Location 7/16 7/23

Melba Area 0 0
South of Nampa 0 0
Middleton Area 0 0
Parma Area 0 0
Wilder Area 0 16
Homedale area 0 2
Pride Lane 0 0

Corn Earworm

All Crops    Treasure Valley

corn earworm

Posted on: July 17, 2015 by Jerry Neufeld

I checked the corn earworm traps yesterday and did not find any corn earworm adults. Below are the general locations of the traps.

Melba Area
South of Nampa
Middleton Area
Parma Area
Wilder Area
Homedale Area
Pride Lane

corn earworm

All Crops    Treasure Valley

corn earworm

Posted on: July 6, 2015 by Jerry Neufeld

I am once again collaborating with Charter Seed Co. and Crookham Seed Co. on a project to trap corn earworm moths. Traps were set out in corn fields at various locations near Melba, Wilder, Homedale, Middleton and Parma. I will check the traps every few days and post the moth counts to this website.

There are a couple of models that can be used to predict the emergence of the summer generation of corn earworm moths. This is the generation of moths that lay eggs in corn that is silking at the time of their emergence.

One model uses January 1 as a biofix, 55 and 92 as the temperature parameters and predicts the summer moths will appear after 1300 growing degree days (GDD) and begin laying eggs in fresh corn silk. This model also estimates the eggs will hatch and larvae will begin feeding on corn ears 73 GDD later. According to this model, we will reach 1300 GDD in the Parma area on 7/13 and 1300 GDD in the Caldwell area on 7/14. Egg laying in most, if not all, Treasure Valley locations will take place about July 12 through July 15. This is about 10 to 14 days earlier than most years.

The second model simply uses 8/1 as the default date; the date the summer moths will emerge and begin laying eggs in fresh corn silk. I do not think this model will be of value this year. Moth counts from the traps will be posted next week when they are available.

Corn Earworm

All Crops    Treasure Valley

corn earworm

Posted on: July 6, 2015 by Jerry Neufeld

I am once again collaborating with Charter Seed Co. and Crookham Seed Co. on a project to trap corn earworm moths. Traps were set out in corn fields at various locations near Melba, Wilder, Homedale, Middleton and Parma. I will check the traps every few days and post the moth counts to this website.

There are a couple of models that can be used to predict the emergence of the summer generation of corn earworm moths. This is the generation of moths that lay eggs in corn that is silking at the time of their emergence.

One model uses January 1 as a biofix, 55 and 92 as the temperature parameters and predicts the summer moths will appear after 1300 growing degree days (GDD) and begin laying eggs in fresh corn silk. This model also estimates the eggs will hatch and larvae will begin feeding on corn ears 73 GDD later. According to this model, we will reach 1300 GDD in the Parma area on 7/13 and 1300 GDD in the Caldwell area on 7/14. Egg laying in most, if not all, Treasure Valley locations will take place about July 12 through July 15. This is about 10 to 14 days earlier than most years.

The second model simply uses 8/1 as the default date; the date the summer moths will emerge and begin laying eggs in fresh corn silk. I do not think this model will be of value this year. Moth counts from the traps will be posted next week when they are available.

cercospora leaf spot

Sugarbeets    Treasure Valley

cersospora leaf spot

Posted on: June 26, 2015 by Jerry Neufeld

Terry Cane, Crop Consultant with Amalgamated Sugar Company, is reporting that cercospora leaf spot is being found in sugarbeets in the Hammett and Indian Cove area in Elmore County. Contact your crop consultant from Amalgamated Sugar Company for more information.

cercospora leaf spot

Sugarbeets    Treasure Valley

cersospora leaf spot

Posted on: June 26, 2015 by Jerry Neufeld

Terry Cane, Crop Consultant with Amalgamated Sugar Company, is reporting that cercospora leaf spot is being found in sugarbeets in the Hammett and Indian Cove area in Elmore County. Contact your crop consultant from Amalgamated Sugar Company for more information.

powdery mildew in sugarbeets

All Crops    Treasure Valley

powdery mildew

Posted on: June 25, 2015 by Jerry Neufeld

Powdery mildew has been found by Amalgamated Sugar Company Crop Consultant Howard Binford in a sugarbeet field in the Adrian, Oregon area. There are several fungicides available for use to treat powdery mildew, including sulfur dusts. Depending on the disease pressure, applications with different chemistries should be repeated every 7 to 14 days. Contact your crop consultant from the Amalgamated Sugar Company if you have questions about treatment options.

Click on the link below for the powdery mildew page in the PNW Plant Disease handbook.

powdery mildew in sugarbeets

All Crops    Treasure Valley

powdery mildew

Posted on: June 25, 2015 by Jerry Neufeld

Powdery mildew has been found by Amalgamated Sugar Company Crop Consultant Howard Binford in a sugarbeet field in the Adrian, Oregon area. There are several fungicides available for use to treat powdery mildew, including sulfur dusts. Depending on the disease pressure, applications with different chemistries should be repeated every 7 to 14 days. Contact your crop consultant from the Amalgamated Sugar Company if you have questions about treatment options.

Click on the link below for the powdery mildew page in the PNW Plant Disease handbook.

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.

Weed tour at Malheur Experiment Station

Announcements    Treasure Valley

weeds

Posted on: June 4, 2015 by Jerry Neufeld

Weed tour at Malheur Experiment Station on Thursday, June 11, 2015

Tour Agenda

Pesticide recertification credits for Oregon (2 hrs) and Idaho (3 hrs) will be issued at the conclusion of the tour. This tour is open to the public. Lunch will be served at the conclusion of the tour.

8:30 – 8:50 AM Registration

Session One
9:00 –10:00 AM
Studies for yellow nutsedge control in dry bulb onion; by Joel Felix

This session of the tour will involve walking through three studies that are being conducted to evaluate yellow nutsedge control in direct-seeded onion.
Onion studies: Evaluate the use of Dual Magnum, EPTAM, and Ethofumesate plow down after wheat harvest to control yellow nutsedge in fields intended for direct-seeded onion production. Evaluate herbicide combinations for weed control in onion.

Session two
10:15 – 11:15 AM
Evaluation of herbicides for weed control in potato and corn; by Joel Felix

This session will showcase a study to evaluate different herbicides for weed control in potato. The study includes several herbicide combinations being evaluated for weed control in potato. A corn study to evaluate herbicides registered for weed control in field corn will be showcased.

Session three
11:20 – 12:20 PM
Herbicides for weed control in sugar beet and direct-seeded onion; by Joel Felix

Tour participants will visit two studies to evaluate different registered herbicides for weed control in sugar beet. The treatments are designed to control glyphosate resistant kochia in sugar beet. The session will also showcase two studies to evaluate onion response to various herbicides applied prior and after onion emergence.

Weed tour at Malheur Experiment Station

All Crops    Treasure Valley

weeds

Posted on: June 4, 2015 by Jerry Neufeld

Weed tour at Malheur Experiment Station on Thursday, June 11, 2015?

Tour Agenda
Pesticide recertification credits for Oregon (2 hrs) and Idaho (3 hrs) will be issued at the conclusion of the tour. This tour is open to the public. Lunch will be served at the conclusion of the tour.

8:30 – 8:50 AM Registration

Session One
9:00 –10:00 AM
Studies for yellow nutsedge control in dry bulb onion; by Joel Felix

This session of the tour will involve walking through three studies that are being conducted to evaluate yellow nutsedge control in direct-seeded onion.
Onion studies: Evaluate the use of Dual Magnum, EPTAM, and Ethofumesate plow down after wheat harvest to control yellow nutsedge in fields intended for direct-seeded onion production. Evaluate herbicide combinations for weed control in onion.

Session two
10:15 – 11:15 AM
Evaluation of herbicides for weed control in potato and corn; by Joel Felix

This session will showcase a study to evaluate different herbicides for weed control in potato. The study includes several herbicide combinations being evaluated for weed control in potato. A corn study to evaluate herbicides registered for weed control in field corn will be showcased.

Session three
11:20 – 12:20 PM
Herbicides for weed control in sugar beet and direct-seeded onion; by Joel Felix

Tour participants will visit two studies to evaluate different registered herbicides for weed control in sugar beet. The treatments are designed to control glyphosate resistant kochia in sugar beet. The session will also showcase two studies to evaluate onion response to various herbicides applied prior and after onion emergence.

Potato Pest Update

Potato    Treasure Valley

Colorado potato beetle & Potato psyllid

Posted on: June 2, 2015 by Stuart Reitz

1) Dr. Mike Thornton reports that adult Colorado potato beetles are being found on volunteer plants in the Treasure Valley. They have not yet been seen in commercial fields, but this is the time of year that growers should be out actively scouting field edges for insects. This is especially true if fields did not receive an at-planting insecticide application.

2) A single potato psyllid adult was captured on a sticky trap in Malheur County. Potato growers in the Treasure Valley are encouraged to closely monitor their fields. For management information, please see: http://www.uidaho.edu/extension/news/psyllid-management/recommendations or contact your local extension office.

test email

All Crops    Treasure Valley

this is a test email

Posted on: May 22, 2015 by Jerry Neufeld

We are testing the system. Sorry for the inconvenience, but I hope you have a good weekend!

Western Cherry Fruit Fly Treatment Forecast

Tree Fruits    Treasure Valley

Western Cherry Fruit Fly

Posted on: May 21, 2015 by Paul Castrovillo

According to the degree-day model from the Online Phenology and Degree-Day Models published at the OSU Integrated Plant Protection Center Website the forecasted dates for beginning treatment against Western Cherry Fruit Fly are: Ontario (May 25), Caldwell (May 29), Boise and Parma (June 4), Nampa (June 5) and Emmett (June 9). These are based on recommended first treatment at 1060 degree-days per "Orchard Pest Management" as published by the "Good Fruit Grower", Yakima 1993.

The first Idaho Western Cherry Fruit Fly for 2015 was recently found in a trap in Homedale on May 19.

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.

Parma Cereal Field Day - June 25

Small Grains    Treasure Valley

Posted on: May 13, 2015 by Olga Walsh

ISDA pesticide disposal program

Announcements    Treasure Valley

Posted on: April 13, 2015 by Jerry Neufeld

Click on the link below for information about Idaho State Department of Agriculture’s pesticide disposal program which will be conducted in SW and North Idaho during May, 2015.

tomato and potato late blight brochure

Potato    Treasure Valley

late blight

Posted on: April 7, 2015 by Jerry Neufeld

Attached is a pdf from Dr. Phill Wharton, U of Idaho Potato Pathologist, with information about Tomato and Potato late blight, and 10 tips to prevent late blight.

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.

Climate Trends in the Pacific Northwest

Announcements    Treasure Valley

Posted on: February 26, 2015 by Bill Buhrig

Please check out the attachment talking about Climate Trends in the Pacific Northwest coming up in Ontario on March 3rd from 1-5pm. This will be held at the Four Rivers Cultural Center. The workshop will focus on regional observations in the field of climate research by scientists associated with Oregon State University. The workshop will address recent/current conditions and how changing trends may affect the long term production in Northeast Oregon and the Pacific Northwest. Geologic mapping and the use of this technology to estimate ground and surface water trends and recharge will be covered. The workshop will close with an open discussion to allow you an opportunity to contribute to your thoughts/ideas regarding climate trends and the opportunities & challenges agriculture could face in the future. Setting up to be pretty interesting and we hope to see you there!

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.

Precision Agriculture Seminar

Announcements    Treasure Valley

Posted on: February 2, 2015 by Jerry Neufeld

Click on the pdf below for more information about the Precision Agriculture Seminar sponsored by the U. of Idaho Extension on February 24, 2015.

Idaho and Oregon Alfalfa and Clover Seed Growers Association

Announcements    Treasure Valley

Posted on: January 8, 2015 by Jerry Neufeld

The Idaho and Oregon Alfalfa and Clover Seed Growers Association Winter Meeting is January 13, 2015 at the Hampton Inn in Nampa. Click on the pdf below for more information.

Pre licensing training for pesticide applicators

Announcements    Treasure Valley

Posted on: January 8, 2015 by Jerry Neufeld

A Pre-licensing training for Pesticide Applicators will be held in Caldwell, ID from March 17 to 20. Click on the pdf below for more information.

Spanish Pesticide Safety Training

Announcements    Treasure Valley

Posted on: January 8, 2015 by Jerry Neufeld

A Spanish Pesticide Safety Training will be held February 25, 2015 at the University of Idaho, Caldwell Complex Education Center from 8 am to 4:15 pm. Click on the pdf below for more information.

Treasure Valley Bean School

Announcements    Treasure Valley

non3

Posted on: January 8, 2015 by Jerry Neufeld

The Treasure Valley Bean School will be held on January 30, 2015 from 8 am to 1 pm at the Hampton Inn in Nampa, ID. Click on the pdf below for more information.

Soil Health Symposium

Announcements    Treasure Valley

Posted on: January 8, 2015 by Jerry Neufeld

Various Soil and Water Conservation Districts in the Treasure Valley are offering the 6th Annual Soil Health Symposium in Ontario, OR on February 12, 2015. Click on the pdf below for more information.

Farm Safety-Net Programs

Announcements    Treasure Valley

Posted on: January 8, 2015 by Jerry Neufeld

The University of Idaho Extension and the USDA Farm Service Agency are offering training for the new farm safety-net programs. Training will be held January 30, 2015 from 10 am to 12:30 pm in Payette. Click on the pdf below for more information.

2014 Treasure Valley Irrigation Conference

Announcements    Treasure Valley

Posted on: December 1, 2014 by Jerry Neufeld

The Treasure Valley Irrigation Conference will be held Dec. 18 at the Nampa Civic Center. Click on the pdf below for more information.

Core Pesticide Recertification Class

Announcements    Treasure Valley

Posted on: November 26, 2014 by Stuart Reitz

Malheur County Extension will be conducting a Core Pesticide Training Class on December 12th from 8 AM to 12 PM.

The class has 4 credit hours for Oregon and for Idaho license holders, and it will satisfy the Core requirements for Oregon private applicators.

To register, please call the Extension office at 541-881-1417, submit the registration form on the attached pdf. There is a $10 registration.

2014 Treasure Valley Irrigation Conference

Announcements    Treasure Valley

Posted on: November 5, 2014 by Jerry Neufeld

Click on the pdf below for information about the 2014 Treasure Valley Irrigation Conference on Dec 18 at the Nampa Civic Center. Six CCA credits will be available.

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.

corn earworm

Corn    Treasure Valley

earworm

Posted on: August 12, 2014 by Jerry Neufeld

Here is my count of corn earworm moths as of this morning.

Location 7/23 7/29 4-Aug 12-Aug

caldwell area 0 0 0 0
melba area 0 0 0 0
north of lake lowell 0 0 0 7
west of greenleaf 0 0 0 8
east of wilder 0 0 0 3
west of wilder 0 0 0 0
north of homedale 0 0 0 1

0 0 0 19

glyphosate-resistant kochia

Sugarbeets    Treasure Valley

kochia

Posted on: August 4, 2014 by Jerry Neufeld

This is an update to the alert that was posted on June 11, 2014 regarding the suspected glyphosate-resistant kochia plants in Western Idaho and Eastern Oregon sugar beet fields. It has now been confirmed that the plants that escaped control in at least two fields in Eastern Oregon were indeed resistant to glyphosate. Tests done by the weed laboratory staff at Colorado State University in Fort Collins, CO confirmed the resistance. Kochia weed seeds will be collected from different fields at the end of the season in order to determine the distribution of glyphosate-resistant kochia in the region.

In the meantime, we would encourage growers to physically remove kochia plants that escaped control in sugar beet fields (if at all possible) in order to minimize the buildup of glyphosate-resistant seeds in the soil. Also, please report any suspicious kochia escapes to your local crop consultant, crop advisor, extension educators, Joel Felix (OSU weed scientist), or Don Morishita (UI weed scientist).

Submitted by Joel Felix, Malheur Experiment Station/Oregon State University, 595 Onion Ave, Ontario, OR 97914

corn earworm

Corn    Treasure Valley

earworm

Posted on: August 4, 2014 by Jerry Neufeld

I still have not found any adult corn earworm moths in the traps I set out. They are being checked once a week.

Weekly Corn Earwom Counts, 2014
Date

Location 7/23 7/29 4-Aug

caldwell area 0 0 0
melba area 0 0 0
north of lake lowell 0 0 0
west of greenleaf 0 0 0
east of wilder 0 0 0
west of wilder 0 0 0
north of homedale 0 0 0



Spider Mites in sugar beets

Sugarbeets    Treasure Valley

Two-spotted spider mite

Posted on: July 31, 2014 by Bill Buhrig

Two-spotted spider mites are being found in sugar beet fields in the Treasure Valley. Implementing proper scouting procedures and working with your crop consultant should be done to determine if action is necessary. For more information on the two-spotted spider mite, consult the PNW Insect Handbook at the link below.

On a related note, there has been a Section 18 granted for specific counties in Idaho and Oregon for the use of the miticide Onager in sugar beets. This is a very specific label that includes expiration dates in the coming weeks. For the eligible counties in Oregon, this label expires August 14, 2014. For eligible counties Idaho, this label expires August 31, 2014.

As is the case with all pesticides, please read and follow the label carefully!

Mites in field corn

Corn    Treasure Valley

Mites

Posted on: July 31, 2014 by Bill Buhrig

Local crop consultants are seeing an increased number of mites in cornfields in the Treasure Valley. Mite populations can flare quickly so it is important to scout fields. Work with your crop consultant to help determine threshold numbers and develop a treatment plan if necessary. Please refer to the link below for information on available treatment products from the PNW Insect Management Handbook.

corn earworm

Corn    Treasure Valley

earworm

Posted on: July 29, 2014 by Jerry Neufeld

I am collaborating with Charter Seed Co. and Crookham Seed Co. on a project to trap corn earworm moths. We set out 7 traps in corn fields at various locations from near Melba to near Wilder. I am checking the traps every few days and posting the moth counts to this website. Below are the moth counts from this week. Once again, I did not find any adult corn earworm moths in the traps.

There are a couple of models that can be used to predict the emergence of the summer generation of corn earworm moths. This is the generation that lays eggs in corn that is silking at the time of their emergence.

One model uses January 1 as a biofix, 55 and 95 as the temperature parameters and predicts the summer moths will appear after 1300 growing degree days (GDD) and begin laying eggs in fresh corn silk. This model also estimates the eggs will hatch and larvae will begin feeding on corn ears 73 GDD later. According to this model, we reached 1300 GDD in the Parma area on 7/21 and 1300 GDD in the Caldwell area on 7/25, yet I have not found any adult moths. We will reach 1300 GDD in the Nampa area today.

The second model simply uses 8/1 as the default date; the date the summer moths will emerge and begin laying eggs in fresh corn silk.

Since I have not found any adult moths yet there could be several things going on. 1) The traps and lures are not working. I used these traps with CEW pheromones lures a few years ago and they worked just fine. 2) There aren’t any corn earworm moths this year. It could happen, but this is rather unlikely. 3) The model using January 1 as a biofix isn’t quite right for our area. My suspicion is that the model using January 1 as a biofix is not quite accurate for our area and we will soon see the summer generation of moths appear. I have talked to some industry people and like me, they have not yet seen the summer generation of CEW moths. Stay tuned, I will check the traps next week and let you know what I find out.


Weekly Corn Earwom Counts, 2014
Date

Location 7/23 7/29

caldwell area 0 0
melba area 0 0
north of lake lowell 0 0
west of greenleaf 0 0
east of wilder 0 0
west of wilder 0 0
north of homedale 0 0

corn earworm

Corn    Treasure Valley

earworm

Posted on: July 23, 2014 by Jerry Neufeld

I am collaborating with Charter Seed Co. and Crookham Seed Co. on a project to trap corn earworm moths. We set out 7 traps in corn fields at various locations from near Melba to near Wilder. I am checking the traps every few days and posting the moth counts to this website.

Below are the moth counts from this week.
Location 7/23

caldwell area 0
melba area 0
north of lake lowell 0
west of greenleaf 0
east of wilder 0
west of wilder 0
north of homedale 0

corn earworm

All Crops    Treasure Valley

earworm

Posted on: July 21, 2014 by Jerry Neufeld

The University of Idaho CIS 366 entitled “Timing Corn Earworm Control,” states that summer CEW moths will begin laying eggs in fresh corn silk at approximately 1300 growing degree days (GDD). Egg hatch and larvae attack will begin about 73 GDD later.

According to the Oregon State University GDD model for Corn Earworm (http://uspest.org/cgi-bin/ddmodel.pl?clm), we are currently at 1219 GDD in the Caldwell area and 1327 in the Parma area. We will hit 1300 GDD in the Caldwell area on approximately 7/25. Those fields with fresh silk at approximately 1373 GDD are most vulnerable to attack from corn earworm larvae. We will hit 1373 in the Caldwell area about 7/25 and 1373 in the Parma area about 7/23.

The following information was taken from CIS 366 regarding corn earworm.

Corn can be “scouted” for corn earworm eggs to predict possible infestation levels. Examine 10 silk masses (about 2-day old) on each edge of a field but only in those fields which are beginning to silk or are silking. Examining a field in late silk for the first time is worthless; most of the eggs, if any were present, are already hatched, and the damage cannot be prevented.

When the egg counts average 1 egg per 2 silk masses, about 100% ear infestation will occur in the field and other fields of like maturity in the vicinity. With 1 egg per 2 silk masses, about 1 inch of each ear tip will be damaged; 1 egg per silk mass will result in about 2 inches of the ear tip damage, etc. When the days and nights are warmer than usual, the damage may double because the earworm will develop faster than the corn.

Fields should be scouted about every 2 to 4 days, depending on temperatures. Once economic egg levels are reached, determined on the basis of damage expected, further scouting is unnecessary. All fields which silk after that time in that vicinity will be subject to damage.

No chemical control will control worms in the ears, so sprays must be timed to control the larvae on the silk before the worms enter the ears. Make the first application when the plants are 50 percent silk, and repeat in 5 to 7 days or as necessary.

I am once again collaborating with Charter Seed Company and Crookham Company on a project to trap corn earworm moths at several locations in the Treasure Valley. We set out 7 traps at various locations from near Melba to near Wilder. I will check the traps every few days and post the moth counts to this website. Purdue University recommends a treatment threshold of 10 moths per trap per night.

For CEW control information from the 2014 Pacific Northwest Insect Management Handbook click on the links below for the type of corn you are growing.

corn earworm

All Crops    Treasure Valley

earworm

Posted on: July 21, 2014 by Jerry Neufeld

The University of Idaho CIS 366 entitled “Timing Corn Earworm Control,” states that summer CEW moths will begin laying eggs in fresh corn silk at approximately 1300 growing degree days (GDD). Egg hatch and larvae attack will begin about 73 GDD later.

According to the Oregon State University GDD model for Corn Earworm (http://uspest.org/cgi-bin/ddmodel.pl?clm), we are currently at 1219 GDD in the Caldwell area and 1327 in the Parma area. We will hit 1300 GDD in the Caldwell area on approximately 7/25. Those fields with fresh silk at approximately 1373 GDD are most vulnerable to attack from corn earworm larvae. We will hit 1373 in the Caldwell area about 7/25 and 1373 in the Parma area about 7/23.

The following information was taken from CIS 366 regarding corn earworm.

Corn can be “scouted” for corn earworm eggs to predict possible infestation levels. Examine 10 silk masses (about 2-day old) on each edge of a field but only in those fields which are beginning to silk or are silking. Examining a field in late silk for the first time is worthless; most of the eggs, if any were present, are already hatched, and the damage cannot be prevented.

When the egg counts average 1 egg per 2 silk masses, about 100% ear infestation will occur in the field and other fields of like maturity in the vicinity. With 1 egg per 2 silk masses, about 1 inch of each ear tip will be damaged; 1 egg per silk mass will result in about 2 inches of the ear tip damage, etc. When the days and nights are warmer than usual, the damage may double because the earworm will develop faster than the corn.

Fields should be scouted about every 2 to 4 days, depending on temperatures. Once economic egg levels are reached, determined on the basis of damage expected, further scouting is unnecessary. All fields which silk after that time in that vicinity will be subject to damage.

No chemical control will control worms in the ears, so sprays must be timed to control the larvae on the silk before the worms enter the ears. Make the first application when the plants are 50 percent silk, and repeat in 5 to 7 days or as necessary.

I am once again collaborating with Charter Seed Company and Crookham Company on a project to trap corn earworm moths at several locations in the Treasure Valley. We set out 7 traps at various locations from near Melba to near Wilder. I will check the traps every few days and post the moth counts to this website. Purdue University recommends a treatment threshold of 10 moths per trap per night.

For CEW control information from the 2014 Pacific Northwest Insect Management Handbook click on the links below for the type of corn you are growing.

sugarbeet pests

Sugarbeets    Treasure Valley

black bean aphid and powdery mildew

Posted on: July 11, 2014 by Jerry Neufeld

Powdery mildew has been found by Amalgamated Sugar Company Field Consultants in the Grandview, Idaho area. In addition, Black Bean Aphids have been found in sugarbeet fields in the Grandview and Nampa, Idaho areas. If Black Bean Aphids are found in your fields at a level requiring treatment, you can include an insecticide treatment for Black Bean Aphid in the mildew tank mix. Contact your Amalgamated Field Consultant for information regarding treatment recommendations.

Malheur Experiment Station Farm Festival

Announcements    Treasure Valley

Posted on: July 3, 2014 by Bill Buhrig

Everyone is welcome to come and check out the 2014 edition of the Malheur Experiment Station's Farm Festival on Wednesday, July 9 just south of Ontario. There will be vendor booths, field tours and lunch will be served. It is free to attend and will be a good time! Please check out the link for more information including driving directions and the field tours schedule. Registration starts at 8am. See you there!

OSU/U of I Cereals Variety Day in Parma

Small Grains    Treasure Valley

Posted on: June 12, 2014 by Bill Buhrig

Oregon State and the University of Idaho invite interested folks to attend a Cereals Variety Day at the Parma R and E Center June 20th. It is free to the public and starts @ 9AM.

The attached flier has the directions and details.

Breeding and extension personnel from both OSU and U of I will be on hand to discuss the variety nurseries which include both wheat and barley in spring and fall trials. Lunch will follow around noon.

For more information or to RSVP, please give Bill Buhrig a call @ 541-881-1417 or email @ william.buhrig@oregonstate.edu.



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.

2014 Malheur Experiment Station Weed Tour

Announcements    Treasure Valley

Posted on: June 6, 2014 by Jerry Neufeld

The following information is provided by Dr. Joel Felix, Associate Professor of Weed Ecology and Management at the Malheur Experiment Station with Oregon State University.

This is a reminder for the upcoming 2014 Malheur Experiment Station Weed Tour.
Date: Tuesday, June 10, 2014
Registration at 8:30-9:00am with coffee and donuts, at the Malheur Experiment Station, 595 Onion Ave, Ontario, OR
Tour will start at 9am.
Pesticide recertification credits will be offered (3 for Idaho and 2 for Oregon).
A complementary lunch will be served starting at noon.

The tour will feature weed management studies in direct-seeded onion, sugar beet, field corn, and potato. The first stop will be at our yellow nutsedge “field laboratory” along Hwy 201 just before crossing the rail tracks (if headed into Ontario). The stop along Hwy 201 will feature studies on yellow nutsedge control in onion and sugar beet. We will then proceed to the station and tour the studies on weed control in sugar beet, potato, and more onion.

This event is open to the public.

Please call 541-889-2174 or email janet.jones@oregonstate.edu if you need more information.

Colorado Potato Beetle

Potato    Treasure Valley

Colorado Potato Beetle

Posted on: May 28, 2014 by Stuart Reitz

Overwintering Colorado Potato Beetle adults are beginning to emerge in southwest Idaho. The overwintering adult stage does little damage; however, females are beginning to lay eggs in potato fields. We could see the damaging larvae appear in about 7 to 10 days depending on temperatures. This is the time for growers to be scouting for CPB, especially if they plan to use "soft" foliar insecticides that target control of early instar larvae.

To guard against development of insecticide resistance, post-emergence applications of neonicotinoid insecticides should not be used if a neonicotinoid seed treatment or other at-planting neonicotinoid treatment was used. Examples of neonicotinoid seed or at-planting treatments include Admire, Belay, Cruiser, Gaucho, and Platinum. Examples of foliar neonicotinoid sprays include Actara, Assail, Belay, Endigo ZC, Leverage, Provado and Scorpion.

GDD Forecast for Western Cherry Fruit Fly

Tree Fruits    Treasure Valley

Western Cherry Fruit Fly

Posted on: May 23, 2014 by Paul Castrovillo

According to the degree-day model from the Online Phenology and Degree-day Models published at the OSU Integrated Plant Protection Center Website,the forecasted dates for the Western Cherry Fruit Fly adult emergence is nearing. The attached pdf has predicted emergence dates for 6 areas in the Treasure Valley and recommended spray dates.

The Importance of Preventing Drift - Sensitivity of Grapes

Announcements    Treasure Valley

Posted on: May 8, 2014 by Jerry Neufeld

Below, and in the attached file, is some good information provided by the Oregon Department of Agriculture about using phenoxy herbicides near grapes. Since we have a substantial acreage of grapes in the Treasure Valley, and there have been problems with this issue in the past, this is good information for Idaho as well.

The Importance of Preventing Drift - Sensitivity of Grapes

In Oregon, wine grapes are being planted into areas that traditionally have been field crops, Christmas trees, or pastures. Grapes particularly are sensitive to some of the herbicides used in these other crops, including the phenoxy herbicides (e.g., 2,4-D and MCPP). Herbicide drift can injure foliage, shoots, flowers, and fruits. The introduction and expansion of com¬mercial grape crops into these areas require that growers openly communicate with each other to ensure that all crops in an area can be produced without conflict.

If you plan to use an ester formulation of a phenoxy herbicide near a vineyard, talk to the nearby vineyard owner/manager. Find out if the grapes are at a particularly vulnerable growth stage, learn about how to minimize risks, and consider using alternative products. If you are a grape grower, share information regarding your crop with your neighboring growers (often multi-generational family farmers who may not be familiar with growing grapes) and help be part of the solution.

It is important to keep pesticides on their intended site of application. It is the responsibility of the pesticide user to fully learn about the properties of the pesticides used, including the potential to drift or volatilize. Drift can be minimized in a number of ways, including, but not limited to: reducing spray pressure, lowering boom height, using drift-reduction nozzles or certain spray adjuvants or selecting low or nonvolatile pesticides. Pesticide users should also learn about the factors which may influence drift, including: temperature, relative humidity, air flow patterns, temperature inversions and topography.

It also is critical that there is good communication between growers and hired commercial applicators. Growers should communicate information regarding nearby sensitive crops; this will allow the hired commercial applicator to take the necessary precautions.

It is all about common sense, good communication, being a good neighbor and having enough information to make informed decisions.

For more information:
Pacific Northwest Pest Management Handbook: Agrichemicals and Their Properties http://pnwhandbooks.org/weed/sites/default/files/chapters/pdf/c-properties.pdf

Preventing Herbicide Drift and Injury to Grapes EM 8860 Revised February 2014

http://ir.library.oregonstate.edu/xmlui/bitstream/handle/1957/45880/em8860.pdf

cereal leaf beetle

Small Grains    Treasure Valley

cereal leaf beetle

Posted on: May 8, 2014 by Jerry Neufeld

Yesterday I found cereal leaf beetle larvae in winter wheat at the UI Parma R and E Center. There were not many, but they are out there. You may want to keep a look out for these pests, especially as spring grains begin to increase in foliage, since they are the preferred host. Click on the link below for more information about CLB.

lygus bug

Alfalfa Seed    Treasure Valley

lygus bug

Posted on: April 29, 2014 by Jerry Neufeld

The following information is being provided by Dr. Jim Barbour, IPM Specialist and Superintendent at the SW Idaho Research and Extension Center at Parma.

The Lygus degree day calculator hosted by Integrated Plant Protection Center at Oregon State University and the IPM Centers - PNW Coalition (http://pnwpest.org/cgi-bin/ddmodel.pl?spp=lyg) shows that, depending on your location in the Treasure Valley, we have accumulated 161 degree days between January 1, 2014 and April 28, 2014. Peak emergence of lygus bug 1st and 2nd instar nymphs should occur right around 272 accumulated degree days: this usually occurs around mid-May, and is the time monitoring for lygus bugs in alfalfa seed fields should begin. Right now that is predicted to occur about the second week of May ( ~May 13).

When using most insecticides, fields should be treated when numbers of lygus bugs reach 4-5 lygus bug nymphs per 180 degree sweep. Growers using Assail, or Beleaf, as stand-alone sprays probably should treat before 4th instar nymphs are detected. You can monitor degree day accumulation using the link provided above as follows:

1) Selecting “ lygus bug [alfalfa seed]Ben Simko 2000” degree day model from the “Select degree day model….” drop down box at the top of the form

2) In the “Select location” box, select a location in the drop down box best describing your location in the “Washington, Idaho” (e.g. “Parma id agmet” box if you want information for a field near Parma; Idaho; Idaho locations are at the bottom of the very long list). Make sure to select “None” at the top of the lists in the other two location boxes.

3) Leave the “Or upload your own weather data…” box blank

4) In the “Forecast:”, enter your zip code or your city, state in the “NWS zip code/city, state” box, or the location nearest your field from the “or weather.com site” drop down box to the right). This selection forecasts 7 days forward based on the local weather forecast (beyond 7 days the forecast is based on the historical average). The predicted date of peak 1st and 2nd instar will vary depending on the forecast location selected, so pick the one closest to your location. Select “none” to have the forecast based only on the historical average.

5) Select the location nearest your field in the “Select historical average forecast location” area. Your selection here should match, as close as possible, your selection in the “Select location” area above: there may not be an exact match. For Idaho and eastern OR, this will be the middle box. As above, select “none” in the other two boxes.

6) Make sure the “Table” and “graph” boxes are checked (and the “precipitation” if you want rainfall information) and click the “Calc” button. A table with the current degree day accumulations matching your selection should appear. There should also be a graph near the bottom showing the current year accumulation compared to the historical average for your selections.

Additional updates will be posted as the 272 degree day accumulation target approaches.

sugarbeet root maggot

Sugarbeets    Treasure Valley

sugarbeet root maggot

Posted on: April 25, 2014 by Jerry Neufeld

The degree day calculator (hosted by the Integrated Plant Protection Center at Oregon State University) for the sugar beet root maggot fly shows that—depending on your location in the Treasure Valley—we have accumulated 262 degree days since March 1, 2014. Peak flight of root maggot flies should occur after 360 accumulated degree days when the maximum high temperature exceeds 80 degrees F. In the Treasure Valley this will be about May 6. Root maggot flies will lay eggs near sugarbeet plants. After the larvae hatch they will begin feeding on the young sugarbeets. AMSCO representatives have not seen any adult flies yet. Look for these pests to appear in the western end of the Treasure Valley first. If you haven’t applied a treatment for sugarbeet root maggot, now is the time to do so. Consult your field representative from AMSCO for treatment options.

Army Cutworm Infestation

Alfalfa    Treasure Valley

Army Cutworms

Posted on: April 15, 2014 by Bill Buhrig

Ranchers in Owyhee County from south of Homedale (Jump Creek area) down to the Rome area in Malheur County are reporting widespread damage to alfalfa and rangeland grasses by an infestation of army cutworms (Euxoa auxiliaris). These cutworms are ½” to 1 ¼ “ long, are brown to black in color with light colored stripes (picture attached) and may be seen in protected areas such as under cowpies, alfalfa crowns or just underneath the residue layer remaining from last season’s foliage. If you suspect army cutworms, lightly pull back the residue layer about 1” deep and look under cowpies where available. They appear to come off the rangeland fringe into alfalfa fields creating a banded effect similar to what ground squirrels may do this time of year. Crested wheat seedings in BLM allotments have also been damaged (pictured). Ranchers wishing to implement control measures on their irrigated fields can use chlorpyrifos (Lorsban 4E) or a mixture of chlorpyrifos and pyrethroid such as Cobalt at labeled rates. Cutworms are reported to come up at night in some areas so it important to use an insecticide that will be effective by ingestion to be available when the cutworm comes up to feed. For more information, check out the PNW Guide (linked). Big hat tip to Sergio Arispe and Stuart Reitz for their help with this posting!

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.

Spanish Pesticide Safety Training

Announcements    Treasure Valley

Posted on: February 4, 2014 by Jerry Neufeld

A Spanish Pesticide Safety Training will be held February 25, 2014 in Caldwell, Idaho. Click on the pdf below for more information.

Treasure Valley Bean School

Announcements    Treasure Valley

Posted on: February 4, 2014 by Jerry Neufeld

The Treasure Valley Bean School will be February 12, 2014 at the Hampton Inn in Nampa, Idaho. Click on the pdf below for more information.

FSMA Comment Period

Announcements    Treasure Valley

Posted on: November 15, 2013 by Stuart Reitz

Due to the intermittent technical difficulties that have occurred in November with the website http://www.regulations.gov, which have prevented some people from submitting comments on FDA's Food Safety Modernization Act, FDA is providing more time for comments on both the proposed rule on produce safety and preventive controls for human food for an additional 7 days to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to comment.

This means that the close of the comment period, which was scheduled for today, November 15, will now be November 22.

You can continue to submit your comments at http://www.regulations.gov.

For more information on FDA's Food Safety Modernization Act, visit http://www.fda.gov/fsma.

Treasure Valley Irrigation Conference

Announcements    Treasure Valley

Posted on: November 12, 2013 by Jerry Neufeld

The Treasure Valley Irrigation Conference will be held in Ontario, Or on December 17, 2013 at the Four Rivers Cultural Center. Click on the pdf below for more information about the program.

spotted wing drosophila

Small Fruits    Treasure Valley

spotted wing drosophila

Posted on: September 26, 2013 by Jerry Neufeld

Spotted Wing Drosophila Southwest Idaho update

Spotted wing drosophila (SWD), Drosophila suzukii, is an invasive insect pest of economically valuable small fruit and tree fruit crops that was first identified in the Western United States in late 2008. Since July 2009, it has been found in Florida, Oregon and Washington and now appears to be established in many Pacific Northwest fruit crops. Spotted wing drosophila was confirmed in samples from Nez Pierce, Latah and Canyon Counties., ID in August of 2012, and in June of 2013 SWD adults were collected by a crop consultant from traps in an orchard near Fruitland, ID. The presence of the flies in samples this early in the 2013 season indicates the flies may have overwintered in southwest Idaho in 2012.

We have continued to find SWD throughout the summer in traps placed in the vicinity of southwest Idaho tree fruit and berry crops. Numbers of SWD in traps have increased dramatically over the last fdrew weeks and we have reared SWD adults from larvae found in raspberries, grapes and peaches. Spotted wing drosophila is a temperate vinegar or pomace fly native to Southeast Asia preferring temperatures of 20-30 °C (68-86 °F). The cool, wet weather we are now experiencing is ideal for SWD, and in combination with the presence of ripe, damaged and rotting fruit is likely contributing to the observed increase in the SWD population in southwest Idaho.

Spotted wing drosophila differs from the common drosophila species such as Drosophila melanogaster that occur in Pacific Northwest fruit crops in that it can attack healthy, undamaged ripening fruit; the common species will only attack overripe, damaged, or dropped fruit. Drosophila larvae in sound ripening fruit are likely to be spotted wing drosophila. Spotted wing drosophila have the potential to be a very serious pest of tree and small fruits. Commercial fruit producers and home gardeners should take all appropriate management efforts for this pest, including:

Monitoring: check fruit regularly for ripeness, damage and presence of SWD. Commercial or home traps are useful for monitoring for SWD adults, and may be useful for control.

Sanitation: remove and destroy infested and overripe or damage fruit

Early harvest: harvest as early as possible to reduce exposure to SWD

Netting: while not practical for large commercial operations, netting may be useful small fruits, and small or single trees or tree branches.

Pesticides: This pest is new and limited information is available on pesticides for control of SWD, but sprays must be timed to kill adults before they lay eggs in fruit.

Please see the attached information on identification, biology, monitoring and management of spotted wing drosophila for additional and specific information. Because of the relatively recent nature of this introduction, the provided information is subject to change as we learn more about the biology of this pest.

Other Resources:
Identification and Management resources

Identification and biology:
http://spottedwing.org/

Identification card SWD males: http://www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/PDF/PMG/SWD_IDCard.pdf

Identification card SWD females: http://www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/PDF/PMG/SWD-ID-Dsuzukii.pdf

Monitoring, identification and management including trapping information:

http://pnwhandbooks.org/insect/pnw-insect-management-handbook/emerging-pest-spotted-wing-drosophila also see appropriate sections for each commodity, e.g. raspberry, from this list:

http://pnwhandbooks.org/insect/search/content/spotted%20wing%20Drosophila

http://jenny.tfrec.wsu.edu/opm/displaySpecies.php?pn=165
http://ipm.wsu.edu/small/pdf/Concord_Grape_SWD_Bulletin_v1_02.pdf

http://extension.usu.edu/files/publications/publication/ENT-140-10.pdf

http://www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/EXOTIC/drosophila.html
YOU ALSO MAY REPORT SUSPECT SWD INFESTATIONS:

Preserve specimens in alcohol (rubbing alcohol is fine) and send to:
Idaho State Department of Agriculture, Plant Industries Division, P.O. Box 790 Boise, ID 83701. Please include your name, address and phone number or you may call (208) 332-8620 to report the possible find.
Or:

Jim Barbour, University of Idaho, Parma Research and Extension Center, 29603 U of I Lane, Parma, ID 83660. Or call (208) 722-6701 to report the find or for more information on this insect.

Samples also may be submitted to your County Educators at your local University of Idaho Cooperative Extension office.

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.

Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) Meeting

All Crops    Treasure Valley

Posted on: August 1, 2013 by Stuart Reitz

There will be a meeting with FDA scientists and administrators and state officials on August 12, 2:30 - 4:30 PM at the Four Rivers Cultural Center, 676 SW 5th Ave, Ontario, OR.

This meeting will be to discuss agricultural water in the Treasure Valley in relation to the proposed FSMA produce Rules. FDA officials will discuss the process for applying for possible exemptions / variances to the rule standards.

Growers and shippers are encouraged to attend.

Please see the attached flyer for details on reserving a seat for the meeting.

***There is no Registration Fee for this event***

Please call Malheur County Extension (541-881-1417) for information.

corn earworm

Corn    Treasure Valley

corn earworm

Posted on: July 23, 2013 by Jerry Neufeld

The University of Idaho CIS 366 entitled “Timing Corn Earworm Control,”states that summer corn earworm moths will begin laying eggs in fresh corn silk at approximately 1300 growing degree days (GDD). Egg hatch and larvae attack will begin about 73 GDD later.

According to the Oregon State University GDD model for Corn Earworm (http://uspest.org/cgi-bin/ddmodel.us ), we are currently at 1301 GDD in the Caldwell area, 1264 GDD in the Nampa area, and 1140 GDD in the Parma area. We will hit approximately 1373 GDD in the Caldwell and Nampa areas on 7/26, 1373 GDD in the Parma area on approximately 7/31. Those fields with fresh silk at 1373 GDD are most vulnerable to attack from corn earworm larvae.

Gem SWCD Summer Tour

Announcements    Treasure Valley

Posted on: July 22, 2013 by Jerry Neufeld

Attached is a flyer announcing the Gem County Soil and Water Conservation District Summer Tour on August 13, 2013. Click on the pdf below for more details.

corn earworm

Corn    Treasure Valley

corn earworm

Posted on: July 12, 2013 by Jerry Neufeld

The University of Idaho CIS 366 entitled “Timing Corn Earworm Control,”states that summer corn earworm moths will begin laying eggs in fresh corn silk at approximately 1300 growing degree days (GDD). Egg hatch and larvae attack will begin about 73 GDD later. Click on the pdf below to view CIS 366.

According to the Oregon State University GDD model for Corn Earworm (http://uspest.org/cgi-bin/ddmodel.us ), we are currently at 1057 GDD in the Caldwell area, 1008 GDD in the Nampa area, and 1134 GDD in the Parma area. We will hit 1300 GDD in the Caldwell area on approximately 7/21, 1300 GDD in the Nampa area on approximately 7/24, and 1300 GDD in the Parma area on approximately 7/18. At each location, we will hit 1373 GDD about 3 to 4 days after reaching 1300 GDD. Those fields with fresh silk at 1373 GDD are most vulnerable to attack from corn earworm larvae. The links below contain management information from the Pacific Northwest Insect Management Handbook.

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.

Elm Seed Bug

Announcements    Treasure Valley

Elm Seed Bug

Posted on: July 1, 2013 by Jerry Neufeld

The Elm Seed Bug is out in force in the Treasure Valley and The Idaho State Department of Agriculture has been overwhelmed with phone calls from the public. The fact sheet below tells about all there is to know and do concerning this pest.

powdery mildew in sugarbeets

All Crops    Treasure Valley

powdery mildew in sugarbeets

Posted on: June 28, 2013 by Jerry Neufeld

Powdery mildew has been positively identified by Amalgamated Sugar Company Crop Consultants and University of Idaho Extension Pathologist Dr. Oliver Neher in sugarbeet fields in the western Treasure Valley of Idaho and Oregon. There are several fungicides available for use to treat powdery mildew, including sulfur dusts. Depending on the disease pressure, applications with different chemistries should be repeated every 7 to 14 days. Contact your crop consultant from the Amalgamated Sugar Company if you have questions about treatment options.

spider mites in sugarbeets

Sugarbeets    Treasure Valley

spider mites

Posted on: June 28, 2013 by Jerry Neufeld

Spider mites were a major issue in sugarbeets in 2012. This alert is to let you know that now is the time to be on the watch for them. If you are getting ready to apply fungicide for mildew, you might want to also scout for mites and treat them both at the same time if necessary. Always check with your Amalgamated Sugar Company Crop consultant if you have any questions.

spotted wing drosophilla

Tree Fruits    Treasure Valley

spotted wing drosophilla

Posted on: June 28, 2013 by Jerry Neufeld

The following information about Spotted Wing Drosophila was provided by Dr. Jim Barbour, IPM Specialist at the University of Idaho SW Idaho Research and Extension Center in Parma, Idaho.

Spotted Wing Drosophila Found in Southwest Idaho

Spotted wing drosophila (SWD), Drosophila suzukii, is an invasive insect pest of economically valuable small fruit and tree fruit crops. The spotted wing drosophila was first identified in the Western United States in late 2008. Since July 2009, it has been found in Florida, Oregon and Washington and now appears to be established in many Pacific Northwest fruit crops. Spotted wing drosophila was confirmed in samples from Nez Pierce, Latah and Canyon Cos., ID in August of 2012. In June of 2013, two adult spotted wing drosophila, a male and a female, were found in in an orchard south of Fruitland, Idaho being monitored for spotted wing drosophila by crop consultant Jennifer Riebe. Spotted wing drosophila is a temperate vinegar or pomace fly native to Southeast Asia preferring temperatures of 20-30 °C (68-86 °F). The presence of the flies in samples this early in the season indicates the flies may have overwintered in southwest Idaho.

Spotted wing drosophila differs from the common drosophila species such as Drosophila melanogaster that occur in Pacific Northwest fruit crops in that it can attack undamaged fruit still on the tree; the common species will only attack damaged, overripe, or dropped fruit. Spotted wing drosophila have the potential to be a very serious pest of tree and small fruits. Commercial fruit producers and home gardeners should monitor their crops for presence of SWD. Please see the attached information on identification, biology, monitoring and management of spotted wing drosophila. Because of the relatively recent nature of this introduction, the provided information is subject to change as we learn more about the biology of this pest.

PLEASE REPORT SUSPECT SWD INFESTATIONS:
Preserve specimens in alcohol (rubbing alcohol is fine) and send to:
Idaho State Department of Agriculture, Plant Industries Division, P.O. Box 790 Boise, ID 83701. Please include your name, address and phone number or you may call (208) 332-8620 to report the possible find.

Or:

Jim Barbour, University of Idaho, Parma Research and Extension Center, 29603 U of I Lane, Parma, ID 83660. Or call (208) 722-6701 to report the find or for more information on this insect.

Samples also may be submitted to your County Educators at your local University of Idaho Cooperative Extension office.

Other Resources:
Identification and Management resources:

Identification and biology: http://spottedwing.org/

Identification card SWD males: http://www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/PDF/PMG/SWD_IDCard.pdf

Identification card SWD females: http://www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/PDF/PMG/SWD-ID-Dsuzukii.pdf

Identification and management including trapping information:

http://jenny.tfrec.wsu.edu/opm/displaySpecies.php?pn=165

http://ipm.wsu.edu/small/pdf/Concord_Grape_SWD_Bulletin_v1_02.pdf

http://extension.usu.edu/files/publications/publication/ENT-140-10.pdf

Malheur Experiment Station Field Day

Announcements    Treasure Valley

Posted on: June 28, 2013 by Jerry Neufeld

The OSU Malheur Experiment Station Field Day is July 10, 2013. Click on the pdf below for more information.

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.

Potato Psyllids detected in Malheur County

All Crops    Treasure Valley

Potato Psyllid

Posted on: June 21, 2013 by Stuart Reitz

Four potato psyllids were found on one yellow sticky card placed in a potato field in Malheur County. This was the only field with psyllids out of 20 fields monitored during the week of June 12-19.

More information and resources on potato psyllids and zebra chip can be found at the link below.
Click on the link(s) below for more information about this pest:

cereal leaf beetle

Small Grains    Treasure Valley

cereal leaf beetle

Posted on: May 31, 2013 by Jerry Neufeld

I just got from scouting a spring wheat field at the UI Parma R and E Center. There are areas of the field that are experiencing heavy damage from cereal leaf beetle larvae. You may want to keep an eye out for this pest in your spring grain fields.

Western Cherry Fruit Fly

Tree Fruits    Treasure Valley

Western Cherry Fruit Fly

Posted on: May 29, 2013 by Jerry Neufeld

Click on the pdf below for information about emergence dates for Western Cherry Fruit Fly at various Treasure Valley locations. Jodie Ellis from the Idaho State Department of Agriculture provided this information.

potato psyllid identification and trapping workshops

Announcements    Treasure Valley

potato psyllid

Posted on: May 28, 2013 by Jerry Neufeld

Just want to remind everyone about the Potato Psyllid trapping and identification workshop from 1 to 3 pm today at the UI Parma R and E Center.

Potato Psyllid trapping and identification workshops will be held across Idaho in late May. There will be a workshop on May 28 at the UI Parma R and E Center, on May 29 at Miller Research in Rupert, and on May 30 at the UI Idaho Falls R and E Center. For more information, including times, click on the pdf below which will bring up the April 19, 2013 edition of the Potato Progress edited by Andrew Jensen.

cereal leaf beetle

Small Grains    Treasure Valley

cereal leaf beetle

Posted on: May 13, 2013 by Jerry Neufeld

Last week I found cereal leaf beetle larvae in winter wheat at the UI Parma R and E Center. There were not many, but they are out there. You may want to keep a look out for these pests, especially as spring grains begin to increase in foliage, since they are the preferred host.

colorado potato beetle

Potato    Treasure Valley

colorado potato beetle

Posted on: May 13, 2013 by Jerry Neufeld

Colorado potato beetles were found in volunteer potatoes late last week in the Parma area. So far, only overwintered adults have been observed, and they will do little damage to potatoes. Scouting should begin soon for eggs and for larvae, which can cause considerable damage to commercial potatoes.

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.

cereal leaf beetle

All Crops    Treasure Valley

cereal leaf beetle

Posted on: May 3, 2013 by Jerry Neufeld

I was at the UI Parma Research and Extension Center yesterday and was doing some scouting in the winter wheat. I found cereal leaf beetle adults in the wheat, so egg laying will begin in the very near future. Cereal leaf beetle have not been a big problem the past few years, but It is still a good idea to scout for CLB eggs as an indication of potential larvae populations. Spring planted grains are preferred by CLB over winter planted grains. Click on the pdf images below to see the CLB control recommendations from the 2013 PNW Insect Management Handbook and to see images of the CLB life stages. Also, click on the link below to read CIS 994 titled “Cereal Leaf Beetle” from the University of Idaho.

lygus

All Crops    Treasure Valley

lygus

Posted on: May 2, 2013 by Jerry Neufeld

The Lygus degree day calculator hosted by Integrated Plant Protection Center at Oregon State University and the IPM Centers - PNW Coalition (http://pnwpest.org/cgi-bin/ddmodel.pl?spp=lyg) shows that, depending on your location in the Treasure Valley, we have accumulated just over 180 degree days since January 1, 2013. Peak emergence of lygus bug 1st and 2nd instar nymphs should occur right around 272 accumulated degree days: this usually occurs around mid-May, and is the time monitoring for lygus bugs in alfalfa seed fields should begin. Right now that is predicted to occur on about during the second week of May 8 or 9).
When using most insecticides, fields should be treated when numbers of lygus bugs reach 4-5 lygus bug nymphs per 180 degree sweep. Growers using Assail, or Beleaf, as stand-alone sprays probably should treat before 4th instar nymphs are detected. You can monitor degree day accumulation using the link provided above as follows:
1) Selecting “ lygus bug [alfalfa seed]Ben Simko 2000” degree day model from the “Select degree day model….” drop down box at the top of the form
2) In the “Select location” box, select a location in the drop down box best describing your location (e.g. “Parma experiment st am i” in the “Washington, Idaho” box if you want information for a field near Parma). Make sure to select “None” at the top of the lists in the other two location boxes.
3) Leave the “Or upload your own weather data…” box blank
4) In the “Forecast:”, enter your zip code or your city, state in the “NWS zip code/city, state” box, or the location nearest your field from the “or weather.com site” drop down box to the right). This selection forecasts 7 days forward based on the local weather forecast (beyond 7 days the forecast is based on the historical average). The predicted date of peak 1st and 2nd instar will vary depending on the forecast location selected, so pick the one closest to your location. Select “none” to have the forecast based only on the historical average.
5) Select the location nearest your field in the “Select historical average forecast location” area. Your selection here should match, as close as possible, your selection in the “Select location” area above: there may not be an exact match. For Idaho and eastern OR, this will be the middle box. As above, select “none” in the other two boxes.
6) Make sure the “Table” and “graph” boxes are checked (and the “precipitation” if you want rainfall information) and click the “Calc” button. A table with the current degree day accumulations matching your selection should appear. There should also be a graph near the bottom showing the current year accumulation compared to the historical average for your selections.

Additional updates will be posted as the 272 degree day accumulation target approaches.

sugarbeet root maggot

All Crops    Treasure Valley

sugarbeet root maggot

Posted on: May 1, 2013 by Jerry Neufeld

The degree day calculator (hosted by the Integrated Plant Protection Center at Oregon State University) for the sugar beet root maggot fly shows that—depending on your location in the Treasure Valley—we have accumulated 262 degree days since March 1, 2014. Peak flight of root maggot flies should occur after 360 accumulated degree days when the maximum high temperature exceeds 80 degrees F. In the Treasure Valley this will be about May 6. Root maggot flies will lay eggs near sugarbeet plants. After the larvae hatch they will begin feeding on the young sugarbeets. AMSCO representatives have not seen any adult flies yet. Look for these pests to appear in the western end of the Treasure Valley first. If you haven’t applied a treatment for sugarbeet root maggot, now is the time to do so. Consult your field representative from AMSCO for treatment options.

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