Rutgers Cooperative Extension IPM personnel are currently deploying blacklight trap and insect pheromone trap networks throughout the state. Sampling will commence within one week, and insect data will be published in the Plant and Pest Advisory Online and on the Pest Map Archive as soon as target pests begin to appear. Pest populations of European corn borer (ECB), corn earworm (CEW) and brown marmorated stink bug (BMSB) from blacklight samples will be posted in table and in map format. Additionally, adult CEW populations from a pheromone network in southern NJ will be posted in both formats. Beet armyworm (BAW) adult populations from a southern NJ pheromone network will be posted in table form beginning in mid-July.
Cole crops
Recently transplanted broccoli, cabbage, etc. crops are being fed upon by crucifer flea beetles at this time; particularly on warmer, sunny days. This pest is capable of significant injury on young plants, and must be controlled. Crops like mustard greens and arugula are particular favorites of crucifer flea beetle. Begin scouting as soon as plants are in the field. Check 5 consecutive plants in 10 random locations for the presence of flea beetles and damage. Consider treating if flea beetles are found on 50% or more plants and fresh damage is apparent. If plants were treated with a systemic (neonicotinoid, eg. imidacloprid, thiamethoxam) insecticide, it is possible for some flea beetles to be present on the leaves. These individuals are typically not active, and foliar damage will be limited.
Reports of imported cabbageworm (ICW) adult activity are coming in now. These common white butterflies will become more active through the month of May in cole crop plantings. Females lay white, spindle-shaped eggs individually on leaves. Once hatched, the small green larvae typically move to the newest tissue at the center of the plant and begin feeding. This can quickly result in stunted and distorted growth. When scouting, check 5 consecutive plants each in 10 random locations. When the number of plants (cabbage, broccoli, or cauliflower) with larvae exceeds 10% in the 0-9 true leaf stage, consider a foliar insecticide treatment. As plants progress beyond 9 true leaves, infestations up to 20% may be tolerated. As plants develop heads, the threshold should be decreased to 5%, as damage to heads directly impacts the marketable portion of the plants. For leafy cole crops (kale, collards, etc.) the action threshold should be 10% plants infested for all stages.
Tomatoes
As tomato transplants harden off in preparation for field transplanting, remember to take all possible precautions to prevent or limit bacterial infections. Inspect plants prior to transplanting. Pale or dry lesions on older foliage are common on plants, particularly if they have become somewhat root-bound in the flats. However, dark lesions on new foliage (especially if the leaves are not fully expanded) should be viewed with extreme suspicion. These may indicate a bacterial infection. Handling of these plants in succession with other tomatoes can spread the infection throughout the planting. Samples of plant material exhibiting these symptoms should be submitted to a diagnostic lab such as the Rutgers Plant Diagnostic Clinic for evaluation.
