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USING DEGREE-DAY MODELS TO REDUCE OR OPTIMIZE INSECTICIDE USE ON SUNFLOWER IN NORTHEASTERN COLORADO, PESTICIDE SPECIAL STUDY, COLORADO STATE UNIVERSITY
Impact/Purpose:
The goal of this project is the development of degree-day (DD) prediction models for two key sunflower insects; the sunflower stem weevil (SSW) and the banded sunflower moth (BSM) in northeastern Colorado. Adoption of degree-day models will reduce unnecessary and ineffective pesticide use by providing growers and consultants with accurate scouting and treatment windows for these pests. In addition, study results will strengthen IPM programs through more efficient scouting methods and refine cultural control practices such as planting dates with reduced risk of insect infestation.
Temperature data will be collected at each location (commercial field) or at the nearest available weather station. Daily degree-day accumulations (calculated from January 1st by the modified sine wave method of Allen (1976)) required to reach optimal crop growth for SSW and BSM treatment will be calculated and compared to results from the degree-day model to determine the accumulated heat units for appropriate timimg of treatments for both pests.
Description:
Specific objectives of this project are: - Develop a degree-day model for the potimum scouting window for the sunflower stem weevil (SSW) and the banded sunflower moth (BSM) in northeastern Colorado. - Develop a degree-day model for the optimum treatment window for the sunflower stem weevil (SSW) and the banded sunflower moth (BSM) in northeastern Colorado. - Refine sunflower planting date recommendations by relating degree-day requirements of sunflower stem weevil (SSW) and the banded sunflower moth (BSM) treatment windows with requirements for susceptible crop growth stages. - Use Cooperative Extension educational programs to encourage sunflower producers to enhance their IPM programs through the adoption of degree-day pest prediction models.