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K-State Turf and Landscape Blog

Tag: IPM

Entomology Department Insect Diagnostics

By Anthony Zukoff, Extension Associate, Entomology

The Entomology Department’s Insect Diagnostics service continues to accept digital identification requests.  Our extension specialists’ areas of expertise include home and structural pests, horticultural and garden pests, pests of medical and veterinary importance, agricultural pests as well as general “what’s this bug?” requests.  Members of the public seeking assistance identifying an insect or insect related problems can access the Insect Diagnostics ID Request Form online.

After providing observation information such as location and date of the sighting, followed by answering a set of questions intended to help with the identification process, one can then upload up to 3 photos and submit the form.  The inquiry is then forwarded on to one of the entomology extension specialists.  Within a few days, usually less than two, the identity of the insect along with appropriate life history information and/or control measures is then sent to the client by email or phone.

The online submission process takes only a few minutes and can be accessed with desktop computers and mobile devices. If you need insect identification assistance, submit a request at https://entomology.k-state.edu/extension/diagnostician/.  Any questions about the program can be submitted to Insect Diagnostics Program Coordinator, Anthony Zukoff at azukoff@ksu.edu.

Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Pesticide Applications – What You Need to Know!

By Frannie Miller, Pesticide Safety and IPM Coordinator

There is a good deal of interest in using drones, also called unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for the application of pesticides. In our context, a drone is a small, remotely controlled fixed-wing or rotary-wing aircraft. A drone application might be appealing to individuals wanting to spray where it is not practical or desirable to use a traditional spray, or perhaps, for spot spraying.  However, applications are limited by the size of the payload the drone is able to carry and compliance and logistics for such applications can be challenging. Downdraft can affect the deposition of the product and cause off-target movement or volatilization. If you are an applicator who is considering using a drone for applications, here is some basic information regarding licenses that you need to know before you apply any pesticides.

Drone image, courtesy of Brett Bultemeier, University of Florida, Pesticide Information Office

First, any individual who will be operating a drone for pesticide applications shall have a current Remote Pilot Certification under title 14 of the Code of Regulations (14 CFR) 107 and meet all Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requirements. This can be achieved by taking a Commercial Remote Pilot Training course or simply taking the exam at an approved testing center. The fee to schedule an examination is usually around $175. Drones shall be operated under the applicable FAA requirements and the necessary exemptions must be obtained according to the weight of the drone being flown. A Commercial Agricultural Aircraft Operator Certificate shall be obtained if the drone does not meet the requirements for exemption.

The applicator needs to provide the Kansas Department of Agriculture with the make, model, serial number (if applicable) and any other requested information related to the drone and submit a completed and signed application to apply pesticide products. Documentation is needed to confirm that each drone is properly registered with the FAA (FAA registration certificate) and the individual flying it has the proper certification (copy of remote pilot license).  The business making the applications also has to prove they have the proper certification (exemption/rule-making documentation, a Commercial Agricultural Aircraft Certificate) or has obtained the necessary exemptions to KDA.

Commercial pesticide applications via drones or unmanned aerial vehicle are only permitted in the following categories: Category 1: Agricultural Pest Control (1A: Agricultural Plant Pest Control, 1B: Agricultural Animal Pest Control, 1C: Wildlife Damage Control, 1D: Stump Treatment), Category 2: Forest Pest Control, Category 3: Ornamental and Turf Pest Control (3A: Ornamental Pest Control, 3B: Turf Pest Control), Category 5: Aquatic Pest Control, and Category 6: Right-of-Way Pest Control. The individual who is operating the drone during the pesticide application must be a certified applicator in the category that applies to the application. The business need to comply with all existing requirements for obtaining a pesticide business license.

Finally, commercial pesticide applications via drone or unmanned aerial vehicle need to comply with the label requirements of each pesticide product being applied. Remember the label is the law! Unfortunately, though, there is little clear guidance on pesticide labels that pertains to drone applications. One thing to note is that if the label prohibits aerial application then the product cannot be applied by a drone. If aerial application is permitted, the application rate and other parameters need to be in compliance with the label. Also it is important to point out, manufacturers and users are adopting commercial nozzles meant for self-propelled sprayers, which can be a concern for product deposition and coverage.

Pesticide Best Management Practices for Commercial Lawn and Ornamental Plant Care

By Frannie Miller and Cheryl Boyer

“The label is the law.” Most pesticide applicators are familiar with this phrase. Yet, pesticides are sometimes used in ways inconsistent with product labels. Examples may include using a product on a site that it is not labeled for, using a rate greater than labeled, using an application method that is not labeled, and many others. Sometimes, pesticides have similar active ingredients but different formulations. Using a formulation not labeled for a particular site is also a misuse. Even though the off-label practice seems harmless at the time, doing so may have unintended consequences, including additional pesticide limitations. The pesticide toxicity and amount of exposure affect the amount of risk to human health. Remember, pesticides are designed to kill certain organisms (insects, weeds, and diseases) and therefore have a degree of toxicity that could cause harm to humans. Label directions are written to minimize risks for homeowners, applicators, bystanders, and the environment. Remember to read, understand and follow the pesticide product label carefully. The following paragraphs discuss some best management practices when making pesticide applications.

First, conduct regular pest scouting to identify issues such as weeds, insects, and diseases, and then assess if the pest pressure justifies treatment. For those pests that are a common problem, develop an integrated pest management (IPM) plan which outlines the non-chemical pest control methods that can be used to help manage these pests. Examples include prevention (sanitation, use of pest-free seeds/transplants), physical barriers (landscape fabric, mulch), mechanical (hand removal, hoeing, plant thinning/trimming), cultural practices (timely watering and fertilization, planting turf varieties to pest pressure), and biological control (promoting beneficial insects). Use pesticides only when pest populations reach economic threshold levels or when conditions favor the development of high populations and then apply the pesticide at the labeled rate. Spot treat if the pest populations are not widely distributed throughout the area. Also, try to select pesticides with low toxicity to humans and other non-target organisms, such as pollinators, pets, birds, etc.

Second, ensure the protection of the environment by calibrating and inspecting application equipment before application. Do not calibrate near ponds, lakes, or other bodies of water, and do not apply to any water body unless the product is labeled for aquatic use. Never clean pesticide application equipment over a mix/load pad that has a drain or where contaminated rinse water can flow into a body of water. Follow spray drift management recommendations/requirements on the product label to help mitigate drift. Examples include not applying when the wind blows> 15 mph or under temperature inversion conditions. Ensure pollinator requirements on the label are followed. These statements are under the “Environmental Hazards” or the “Bee Advisory” box on the label. Avoid using pesticides within the same chemical group or mode of action over an extended period of time to help prevent pesticide resistance. Look at each product’s active ingredient(s) and keep records of what you have used for a specific pest.

Third, follow the label to ensure the safety of applicators, homeowners, handlers, and others. Always keep the product label and Safety Data Sheet (SDS) available for all the products you apply. Always use the label-approved Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). PPE is intended to prevent pesticide exposure to the applicator by creating a barrier between the applicator and the pesticide. Store PPE in a clean and safe place to avoid contamination. Keep pesticide products in the original container and store pesticide products in a safe and secure place that is out of the reach of children.

The turfgrass and ornamental industry spends hundreds of millions of dollars to develop pesticides and the data to prove they can be used safely. Users are responsible for following label directions and handling products in ways that ensure safe use. This is one of the most important steps to take to protect the well-being of our families and communities and ensure access to pesticides in the future.

Celebrating Pollinators Year Around

By Brooke Garcia

It was Pollinator Week June 21-27, 2021! How did you take part during Pollinator Week? Perhaps you had an encounter with a buzzy friend in the garden or planted some native perennials that attract pollinators in the landscape.

Celebrating pollinators does not need to be confined to one week only. You can do this in so many unique ways in your personal garden or landscapes you manage or oversee.

Photo taken in David Traylor Zoo of Emporia, KS by Brooke Garcia.

Here are some creative ideas to help attract and celebrate pollinators in our favorite landscapes:

  • Plant native flower beds, gardens, or local grasses to your landscape area
  • Add pollinator plants to flower pots
  • Incoporate native bee houses into the landscape
  • Host a pollinator plant sale or pollinator festival/event
  • Host an educational event with K-State
  • Choose a mixture of plants that flower during spring, summer, and fall
  • Reduce or eliminate pesticides in certain areas of your landscape if possible
  • Incorporate plants that encourage beneficial insects
  • Reach out to others and educate! Informing clients and friends is a great way to encourage change.

Here are some more ideas featured in the Extension Entomology Newsletter.

These are just a few ways to help support pollinators all year around! Have any pollinator topics you’d like us to feature? Email us at gardenhour@ksu.edu.

Abundance of Caterpillars in the Garden

By Frannie Miller

This post has been provided by the Extension Entomology e-Newsletter.

This week as I have been out in my own yard and garden I have noticed an abundance of different types of caterpillars. Identification of caterpillars can be difficult because so many of them look really similar, but often if you know what plant they feed upon it will give you a clue.

The first image is of a caterpillar sent to me by a friend asking what it was. She found it feeding on her pansies, which were a hold over plants from spring. These caterpillars are known as pansyworms. They usually grow to be 1 ¼ inches long with a characteristic deep-orange color with black striped sides which feature spines. These caterpillars will take bites out of the leaves, but the resulting variegated fritillary butterfly will add color to the garden.

Panysworm image: Courtesy of Cheryl Boyer

Then I found a few yellowstriped armyworm caterpillars feeding on some of my flowers. I picked them off as I did not want them to feed on those particular plants, but allowed them to feed elsewhere. These caterpillars turn into a somewhat drab grayish-brown moth.

Yellow Striped Armyworm

Finally I spotted a mass of small caterpillars feeding on sunflowers in the garden. The sunflowers were not ones I plants and had come up as volunteer so I have decided to let the caterpillars eat on these plants. It is difficult to for me to identify the exact species from a picture, but they will turn into some sort of checkerspot butterfly.

I have chosen to not use any insecticides to control these particular caterpillars, but options such as Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. kurstaki (Btk) and spinosad can be used when caterpillars are small. If you are going to use these products, remember to read and follow the label.

Checkerspot Caterpillar

Sometimes we don’t notice the caterpillars until they are larger and hand picking may become the best control option.

Today is the start of…. National Pollinator Week!

By Brooke M. Garcia

Happy National Pollinator Week! National Pollinator Week occurs every year around mid-June. This year, June 22-28th, 2020 is dedicated to celebrating pollinators and promoting how we can protect them in the landscape and/or environment. What can you do this week to protect or promote a pollinator?

Here are some ideas to show your support:

  • Plant native plants in the landscape
  • Educate employees on pesticide safety
  • Display pollinator artwork and outreach materials in your office lobby
  • Highlight Pollinator Week in a newsletter, blog, or magazine
  • Host a nature walk or pollinator expert lecture

Use the hashtag #pollinatorweek to promote pollinator week, events and resources shared.

For more information about National Pollinator Week, you can visit the official website.

Visit our K-State Pesticide Safety and Integrated Pest Management Facebook page to stay tuned with educational topics related to pollinators, pesticide safety, and IPM.

Odd weather patterns lead to odd disease patterns

 

I saw some brown patch recently – in late September/early October!

In the meantime, our warm-season grasses are slowing down, and all the cool, cloudy, rainy weather this week may trigger some large patch in zoysiagrass.

Pathogens will take advantage of conducive conditions whenever they occur. Here are some great updates from my excellent turf pathology colleague Dr. Lee Miller, next door in Missouri:

https://turfpath.missouri.edu/reports/2018/update10_05_18.cfm

 

Looking for your feedback! Help us help YOU by filling out our brief survey

Thank you for your engagement with the K-State Turf Team! To help us further improve this program, we would like to gather your responses to the questions below. This project is a research study regarding our blog and social media resources as well as some general questions about Integrated Pest Management (IPM).

The survey includes 13 brief questions, and we anticipate it will take about 5 minutes of your time.

Your participation in this survey is voluntary, and you do not have to respond to any questions you do not want to answer. This information will only be used for program evaluation purposes, and you will not be identified in any way by the information you provide. We value your input. Thank you for your continued support of the K-State Turf Blog and e-Newsletter.

You can fill out the anonymous survey by clicking here:

https://kstate.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_23sGRxeY78cbL3n

 

 

Flower garden sanitation to improve plant health next spring

Many plant pathogens like to survive the winter in infected crop debris. One example is iris leaf spot.

 

Here is a zoom – the black spots are structures where the fungus produces spores:

So what can we do? Here are some tips from the Horticulture News (http://www.ksuhortnewsletter.org/):

Iris are known for a couple of common problems: a fungus disease known as iris leaf spot and an insect named iris borer. Though both cause problems in the spring, now is the time to start control measures. Both the fungus and eggs of the borer overwinter on old, dead leaves. Remove dead leaves and cut back healthy leaves by ½ this fall to reduce populations of these pests. Also remove other garden debris from the iris bed.  This can significantly cut down on problems next spring. (Ward Upham)

Another disease that lurks over the winter is peony leaf blotch (also known as red spot or measles) and you can find info on that disease here on the Common Plant Problems website.

 

 

(Photos by Megan Kennelly)

Kansas Turf Conference!

Kansas Turf Conference in conjunction with KNLA

December 4, 5 & 6, 2018

Kansas Expocentre, Topeka

Mark the date to attend the Kansas Turfgrass Conference in conjunction with KNLA on December 4, 5 & 6 in Topeka.

The conference is an excellent way to learn about turf, nursery and landscape management, visit with old friends, network with new ones, and see all the latest equipment and supplies from local and national vendors.

The conference has been approved for Commercial pesticide recertification hours:

  • 1 Core hour
  • 3A – 7 hrs
  • 3B – 7 hrs
  • International Society of Arboriculture CEUs and GCSAA education points will also be available by attending the conference.

Download a copy of the program, get exhibitor information, or register online

http://www.kansasturfgrassfoundation.com/annual-ktf-conference.html