By Andi Anderson
Warm and wet conditions across much of the region are leading to more pests and diseases in both fruit and vegetable crops. As summer production peaks, scouting and integrated pest management (IPM) are vital for healthy yields.
Fruit Crops:
Spotted Wing Drosophila (SWD) continues to be a major concern. This insect lays eggs inside berries, causing soft, damaged fruit. Growers should monitor using baited traps, check them weekly, and harvest fruit often to avoid overripening. Use protective insecticides and rotate chemical classes to avoid resistance. Rapid cooling after harvest helps reduce damage.
Sun scald, seen in brambles like raspberries, causes pale or white drupelets from too much sun. While it reduces appearance quality, taste and nutrition remain fine. Prevent scald by pruning for better leaf cover, using shade cloth in extreme heat, and providing regular irrigation.
Other reported pests include leafhoppers, woolly apple aphids, green and rosy aphids, and spider mites. These pests thrive in dry heat and can damage leaves and fruits. Check leaf undersides for signs like curling or honeydew. Beneficial insects like ladybugs help control them naturally. Avoid too much nitrogen to reduce pest attraction. If needed, apply selective sprays and rotate products to prevent resistance.
Vegetable Crops:
Phytophthora root rot is spreading in wet fields, especially in peppers and cucurbits. Improve drainage with raised beds and plasticulture, use resistant varieties, and apply preventive fungicides.
Powdery mildew has appeared in squash crops. Look for white patches on leaves and stems. Spray protectants early and space plants for airflow. Clean up debris after harvest.
Squash bugs, stink bugs, and tarnished plant bugs are causing fruit damage. Remove egg masses by hand, rotate crops, and apply insecticides early.
Cucumber beetles and Colorado potato beetles are active in many crops. Regular scouting, sticky traps, and careful chemical use are essential. Rotate IRAC classes to slow resistance.
In sweet corn, European corn borer (ECB) damage is rising. Use pheromone traps and time sprays after egg hatch. Bt corn hybrids offer long-term protection.
Photo Credit: pixabay-couleur
Categories: Ohio, Crops, Corn, Fruits and Vegetables