White Sugarcane Aphid Update – 8/1/2014
White sugarcane aphid infestations are increasing across the state and more applications are going out to manage this pest. Over the last week to 10 days we have heard about numerous fields that have received a second application. Remember, that the Section 18 label for Transform states that no more than 2 applications can be made in a field. Based on all of the fields that we have looked at and the limited tests that we have done, it is recommended use at least 1.0 oz of Transform to get adequate control. Also, it appears that the use of any good surfactant can significantly improve control.
One other thing that we have been recommending is to move toward harvest as quick as possible when white sugarcane aphids are present. This may mean using a harvest aid at physiological maturity. Erick Larson posted a very good article last year describing the use of harvest aids in grain sorghum. You can click on this link to view his article.
Based on some limited observations from Louisiana, it appears that sodium chlorate is the best option to quickly desiccate the upper portion of the canopy. The feeling is that the sodium chlorate is rapidly killing the upper third of the canopy and the aphids move down to the green leaves at the bottom of the plant and don’t create as much of a problem with harvest. In contrast, Roundup is taking too long to desiccate the crop and the aphids remain colonized around the head and could potentially impact harvest.
