General Information
This publication was prepared to help producers manage insect populations with the best methods proven practical under Kansas conditions. It is revised annually and intended for use during the current calendar year only. The mention of commercial products in this publication does not imply endorsement, nor is criticism implied of similar products not mentioned.
The suggestions included here are based on experience and observations and are thought to be reliable under test conditions, but sometimes performance varies in ways that cannot be predicted. The K-State Entomology staff assumes no responsibility for product performance, personal injury, property damage, or other types of loss resulting from the handling or use of the pesticides listed. Pesticide label directions and restrictions are subject to change, and some may have changed since this publication was written. As much as is possible, K-State Research and Extension offices are advised as changes in use occur.
The insecticides listed, except where indicated, are intended for use as foliar sprays. The first name listed refers to the common chemical name of the insecticide product. This is followed in parentheses by the most commonly used trade name(s). Occasionally, specific formulations are listed for a particular use. A brief summary of label directions and restrictions is included for each insecticide. The label may include additional information not mentioned in this publication. Directions often vary among similar products, even among those having the same active ingredient(s).
Remember that it is illegal to use a pesticide in a manner inconsistent with the label. The user bears responsibility for correct use. Always read and follow label directions carefully. Seek assistance when in doubt. Additional problem-specific information may be available through the local K-State Research and Extension office.
The economics of control should be considered as a factor in any pest management decision. However, because costs vary greatly over time and are influenced by factors that are beyond the scope of this publication, product cost in general is not considered a reason for either including or omitting specific insecticide products in these recommendations. We recommend that producers always compare product price, safety and availability when making treatment decisions.
Label Terminology
The waiting or preharvest interval (PHI) refers to the time that must elapse between application and harvest. The interval usually is different for forage use as compared to grain harvest, but when not specified, the interval usually is the same regardless of use of the treated product. The waiting interval does not signify how long an insecticide will provide control following application. The restricted entry interval (REI) specifies the time that must elapse before workers can safely return to work in treated fields without the use of protective clothing and/or equipment.
Some pesticides are classified for Restricted Use. This classification means that individuals (private or commercial) must be certified by the Kansas Department of Agriculture before purchasing or using these products. Some pesticide use may be permitted by means of State of Kansas Special Local Needs (SLN) labels. The law requires possession of this label when using a product for an SLN purpose.
Restricted Use Insecticides
The following insecticides are labeled Restricted Use and individuals must be certified by the Kansas Department of Agriculture before purchasing or using these products:
Beta-cyfluthrin (Baythroid XL)
Chlorpyrifos (Numerous products)
Deltamethrin (Delta Gold)
Esfenvalerate (Asana XL)
Gamma-cyhalothrin (Proaxis)
Lambda-cyhalothrin (Numerous products)
Methomyl (Lannate)
Methidathion (Supracide 2E)
Propargite (Comite II)
Terbufos (Counter 15G)
Zeta-cypermethrin (Mustang MAX)
Using Insecticides Safely
Injury or death can result from swallowing, inhaling or prolonged skin contact with insecticides. The risk of injury from ingestion is greatest among pets, livestock and young children. Skin absorption, and sometimes inhalation, usually pose the greatest risk to users. Handle all pesticides with care and use them only when needed. Avoid spilling concentrates on the skin or clothing.
If a spill occurs, remove contaminated clothing immediately, and wash with soap and water. If in the eyes, flush with water for 15 minutes and seek prompt medical attention. If exposed and in need of medical treatment, take the pesticide label with you. For poison control information call 800-332-6633 or the new nationwide number 800-222-1222.
Wear protective equipment (respirators, clothing, etc.) as specified on the label. Bathe and change clothing frequently. Launder contaminated clothing separately.
Protect fish, wildlife and other nontarget organisms. Do not dispose of unused pesticides where the runoff may contaminate streams, lakes, or drinking water supplies, nor apply in a manner that could pollute such sites.
Consider the presence of honeybees before applying insecticides. Avoid drift to beehives or adjacent blooming crops. Notify the bee owner before applications are made in the general vicinity. Applying treatment late in the day when bees are not foraging may help to reduce the risk.
Read the label carefully. It is a legal document. It tells what, where, how and when the product can be used.
A Word About Seed Treatments
Seed treatment insecticides can be categorized into two major groups: contact seed treatments (represented by lindane on sorghum) and systemic seed treatments. A contact insecticide, usually applied as a planter box application, is used to control insects that come in contact with or feed on the planted seed. This type exhibits no action against pests feeding on other plant parts. Systemic seed treatments (imidacloprid and thiamethoxam) are applied by commercial seed-treating establishments to protect against damage caused by most seed-attacking insects and some soil insects. They also work systemically to provide early season protection against certain aboveground foliage feeding insect pests. Check with local seed suppliers to determine the availability of these products on hybrids in question.
Note on Chemigation
Some insecticides may be applied through overhead sprinkler systems. Current information suggests that Asana, Baythroid, chlorpy¬rifos (numerous products), lambda-cyhalothrin (numerous products), Mustang, Proaxis, Tracer and some carbaryl (Sevin) products may be applied in this manner. Those interested in using this method must comply with the requirements established by the Kansas Chemigation Safety Law as well as all requirements listed on product labels.
The Worker Protection Standard
The Worker Protection Standard (WPS) is a series of federal regulations pertaining to pesticides used in agricultural plant production on farms, forests, nurseries and greenhouses. You must comply with these regulations if you are an agricultural pesti¬cide user and/or an employer of agricultural workers or pesticide handlers. For more complete information, con¬sult the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency publication The Worker Protection Standard for Agricultural Pesticides — How to Comply, What Employers Need to Know. This publication is available at your local K-State Research and Exten¬sion office.
Stored Grain Management
This publication deals with insects during the grow¬ing season. For information on insects that attack grain during storage see publication MF-917, Management of Stored Grain Insects, Part III: Structural Sprays, Pest Strips, Grain Protectants, and Surface Dressings, or go to the K-State Entomology Web site www.entomology. ksu. edu and select “Extension,” then “Insect Information,” then “Stored Grain Management.”
More Information
For more information about insect problems in Kansas, visit the K-State Research and Extension Entomology home page at www.entomology.k-state.edu and select “Extension” from the menu on the left.
From: MF-742, Phillip E. Sloderbeck, J.P. Michaud, and Robert J. Whitworth, Insect Management, Kansas State University.
This publication was prepared to help producers manage insect populations with the best available methods proven practical under Kansas conditions. Pesticide label directions and restrictions are subject to change, and some may have changed since this publication was written. Kansas State University entomologists assume no responsibility for product performance, personal injury, property damage, or other types of loss resulting from the handling or use of the pesticides listed. Remember, it is illegal to use a pesticide in a manner that is inconsistent with the label. The user bears responsibility for correct use. Always read and follow label directions carefully.