We are a month in to the new year and I just wanted to remind everyone that if you have not already done so, it is time to start thinking about a delayed-dormant application of horticultural oil for scale insect management. The above 50°F weather makes for a lovely day, but the scale insects enjoy it too, becoming developmentally active above 51°F. That means it is a good time to nip these guys in the bud.
For delayed dormant timing, apply dormant horticultural oil at a rate of 0.75-1.5% oil to water. It is recommended to apply the water:oil mixture at high gallonage in order to maximize coverage. Aiming for 150-200 gal/acre of the water:oil mixture for areas with a history of scale pressure is advised.
Additionally, incorporating chlorpyrifos with the oil application provide suppression of scale insects as well as lesser peachtree borer when applied at bud swell.
Alternatively, combining an insect grower regulator, such as Centaur or Esteem with the oil when the scale have reached the black cap stage, will enhance the control of the scale.
With the forecasted cool weather, please note that efficacy diminishes at lower temperatures and phytotoxicity is possible when the daily low temperatures are below 28°F within a 2- to 3-day forecast.
Also note, do not apply oil sprays within 2 weeks of (before or after) making a spray that contains sulfur.
Additionally, the 2018 Southeastern Peach, Nectarine, and Plum Pest Management and Culture Guides are here!
Printed versions will be made available to those who previously requested them whereas the digital (PDF) version can be accessed at any time at the like below.
https://extension.uga.edu/publications/detail.html?number=b1171
Here’s to a great 2018 season!
