ABSTRACT

In 2001, sticky cotton, arising from honeydew from cotton aphids and silverleaf whiteflies, became an issue in SJV cotton. Environmental conditions were conducive to honeydew deposition on exposed lint and late-season cotton aphid and silverleaf whitefly populations developed in many areas. Insecticides and acaricides account for about 10% of the budget required to grow cotton in the San Joaquin Valley during a typical year. Arthropod pests were significant factors in SJV cotton production during the mid-1990's; cotton yield losses from spider mites, cotton aphids, lygus bugs, and lepidopterous larvae in the SJV were as high as 15% during the peak years. However, the emergence of sticky cotton concerns for the SJV placed an added importance on optimal management of insect pests, primarily aphids and whiteflies. Appropriate research was planned to address management of silverleaf whitefly and cotton aphids in order to protect lint quality. Efficacy of registered insecticides (including some newly registered products) on cotton aphids during the late-season period was examined. The most cost-efficient means to utilize these insecticides in management programs were examined. The interaction between harvest aid materials and aphid and whitefly populations was a priority for research efforts.