Hi all,
Another week of hot and humid conditions has led to continued high pest pressure within the region. Not to mention that mosquito populations are at their peak of the season (we hope). We are seeing most of the usual (insect) suspects these days, so it is more a game of managing impacts rather than avoiding establishment.
This season is shaping up to be one of the most severe for squash vine borers in recent memory, with multiple larvae often being found in single plants. The situation has been further exacerbated by a seasonal surge in squash bug populations and some outbreaks of bacterial wilt, driven by cucumber beetles. Despite these significant pest pressures, the impact on yield has been relatively limited. Healthy cucumber and squash plants seem to be thriving in the current heat, which appears to be mitigating some of the damage.
Although cucurbits are facing significant insect pest pressure, we have not observed extensive disease issues on the farms we are currently monitoring. Some powdery mildew has been detected, but downy mildew has not yet appeared, although a recent confirmed case was reported in southeastern NY (Orange County). With the recent storms, we anticipate that downy mildew may potentially spread further north. Additionally, we have not yet encountered any basil downy mildew, though there have been confirmed reports in eastern Massachusetts.
Onion harvest has begun on many farms in the region, and it seems like a good time for harvest. Onion thrips were just peaking in the region and we’ve spotted some onion downy mildew. For those with onions still in the ground, be aware that leek moth populations in the Champlain valley are mostly in late stage larval and pupal stages. Which means that it is unlikely that you’ll be bringing in many eggs or early stage larvae into your storage or curing areas. Though, topping is always a good option to remove any doubt.
Some notes from nearby farming areas:
- Increasing western bean cutworm in Northern New York
- Lots of squash vine borer damage in Hudson Valley
- White rot confirmed in garlic in Maine
As always, our website for the scouting reports can be found here. In addition to the pests reported here, our website also has a more comprehensive list of pests. The list also documents the progression of many common pests as they emerge throughout the season.
For detailed management information about these pests, as well as a comprehensive guide to current production and pest management techniques for commercial vegetable crops, check out the New England Vegetable Management Guide. And, as always feel free to reach out to us if you have any questions.
Cheers,
VEPART Team
| Pest | Crop | Observations |
| Colorado Potato Beetle | Potatoes, Solanums | Most populations are mixed stages, though we are seeing a lot of adults emerging these days |
| Squash Bug | Cucurbits | Adults and Nymphs are prevalent |
| Striped Cucumber Beetle | Squash, Cucumbers | Seeing the multiple incidence of bacterial wilt in the region. |
| Flea Beetle | Kale, Collards, Cabbage | Not much of a problem at this stage. |
| Cabbage worms | Kale | Imported cabbage worm larvae are decimating some plantings and are especially prevalent in red Russian kale |
| Potato Leafhoppers | Potatoes, Beans | Still seeing high pressure of adult leafhoppers in potato fields. Leaf burn is extensive in various crops |
| Tarnished plant bug | Strawberries, potatoes | Tarnished plant bugs are being found in relatively high numbers in various crops. Some outbreaks in lettuce have been severe. |
| Leek Moth | Onions/Garlic | Larval damage is extensive in all plantings. We are seeing a lot of cocoons. |
| Squash vine borer | Winter and Summer Squash | Pressure has been very high these days. |
| Mexican Bean Beetle | Beans | Seeing larvae, adults and damage. Not extensive but some small outbreaks |
| Onion Thrips | Onions | Damage is becoming severe in plantings on black plastic. |