Chris Strohm, Louis Nottingham, and Tianna DuPont, Washington State University and Rick Hilton, Oregon State University shared an update on 2020 Pear IPM research with ninety-three pear growers, consultants and scientists in a webinar on December 2, 2020.
Strohm, Hilton, and DuPont have been conducting large field trials looking at the success of IPM systems that conserve natural enemies. 2020 results confirmed that IPM systems were able to conserve large natural enemy populations and keep psylla in check at the end of the year compared to conventional management. New this year replicated trials of honeydew washing showed how well washing can remove honeydew and improve fruit quality. Honeydew washing systems are gaining traction. An in-workshop poll showed 12 new systems installed in the last 3 years with 100% of those installed one saying it has helped increase fruit quality or reduce sprays. Hilton presented research on IPM control of codling moth in pears. One important highlight was data showing that a program with Altacor in the first generation (with mating disruption) and Intrepid in the second generation was effective and less disruptive to natural enemies. Nottingham reviewed new studies on particle films and organic pesticide efficacy. All particle films had an impact repelling oviposition and causing juevenile mortality with Surround better than other films. Interestingly, few negative impacts on natural enemies were seen. WSU and OSU’s work in this area is helping growers. 74% replied in polls that they have increased particle film applications, changed rates, or changed product based on their work (N=50).
The OSU-WSU Pear IPM team is making impacts. Overall, 83% of poll respondents said they consider the effects of natural enemies when they select an insecticide/miticide. 67% of participants (N=87) said they learned a good or great deal from the webinar and 85% said they plan to do something different as a result of the workshop (N=67).
For more information visit:
https://treefruit.wsu.edu/crop-protection/pear-ipm/
https://treefruit.wsu.edu/article/prebloom-management-of-pear-psylla-with-particle-film/
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