Published by Utah State University Extension and Utah Plant Pest Diagnostic Laboratory
IPM-022-21
April 2021
The Backyard Garden
Tomato Pests Nick Volesky, Vegetable IPM Associate • Marion Murray, Extension IPM Specialist
INSECTS Armyworms
Fig. 1
SEVERITY: high OTHER HOSTS: most vegetable crops, ornamentals, and weeds GENERAL INFO: There are several species of armyworms present in Utah. Adult moths are mottled gray and brown with light-colored markings (Fig. 1). Larvae vary in color from tan, green, and almost black. They are typically a concern from mid-July through September and have one to three generations per growing season. Eggs are laid on leaves, larvae disperse and feed on foliage and fruit, and when mature, pupate in the soil. SYMPTOMS: • Irregular holes in foliage or fruit. • Skeletonized or shredded foliage. • Complete defoliation. MANAGEMENT: Keep garden areas weed-free. Consider tilling soil in the fall to disrupt the overwintering pupal stage. Organic insecticides with active ingredients Bacillus thuringiensis or spinosad are effective on young larvae.
Beet Leafhopper
Fig. Fig. 22
SEVERITY: high OTHER HOSTS: several vegetables and weed species GENERAL INFO: Adults are 3 mm long, and nymphs and adults have wedge-shaped bodies varying in color from pale green, grey, or tan (Fig. 2). Both life stages jump when disturbed. They are typically a problem in early summer when weeds begin to dry up during the first six to eight weeks of planting. Beet leafhoppers can have multiple generations per growing season. They overwinter as adults on weeds in the mustard family in southern Utah and migrate north on spring wind currents. Direct feeding damage is not economically important on tomato; however, they can spread beet curly top virus and big bud, which can have serious economic impacts. SYMPTOMS: See symptoms of beet curly top virus and big bud. MANAGEMENT: Manage leafhoppers by excluding them with floating row covers. Shade tomato and pepper plans. Destroy and remove plant debris. Confuse leafhoppers by “hiding” susceptible plants among resistant plants.
The Backyard Garden: Tomato Pests
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