This past week (April 21, 2026), Tanner placed a CropVue smart-trap in a local pecan orchard to monitor pecan casebearer. Dr. Chad Abbott with FMC has been helping us on this project. Last year, Dr. Barma provided information on the biology of the insect and how to use the PNC model for insecticide application timing.
Understanding the biology of this insect, the most vulnerable stage of the insect is the young larvae, which feed outside the nutlet for 2-3 days after hatching. Once they enter the nutlet, they are less exposed to insecticide being applied, and therefore, the efficiency of the products may not be realized as expected. How do we determine when to make an insecticide application to maximize the benefits? To help us with this decision, a PNC forecast model was developed based on historical data for this insect. We can now utilize this platform to predict (https://pecan.agpestmonitor.org/ipmtoolbox/forecast/) when to expect the egg laying and moth emergence. Below is the forecast based off the information from the trap.
Andrew Sawyer, UGA Regional Pecan Agent, provided agents with good information last week. I have been receiving questions about irrigation and fungicide programs.
What about my bearing orchards?
Below are example fungicide programs for low, moderate and high scab potential orchards.
If you have questions please contact your local county Extension agent.