Research
University of California
Cooperative Extension 420 South Wilson Way Stockton, CA 95205-6243
Control of European Asparagus Aphid with Foliar Applied Insecticides
Brachycorynella asparagi
Benny Fouche & Debra Boelk
Experimental plots were established at Victoria Island Farms, west of Stockton, California. The purpose of the research was to evaluate the effectiveness of nine different materials for control of European asparagus aphids feeding on asparagus fern. Plot size was 5 feet wide by 40 feet long with 4 replications. The treatments were applied with a Co2 powered backpack powered spray boom with the application made from both sides of the bed. A volume of 50 gallons/ acre was used in order to simulate the same type of coverage obtained by the grower. Three TJ-60 8002-VS twin even flat spray tips were used to produce fine particle size spray droplets. One application was made on October 5th, 2005.
Aphid behavior was evaluated by beating the fern in three areas of the plot in each of 4 replications and rapidly counting aphids observed on an 8 ½ inch by 11-inch foam board. While many lady bird beetles were observed in this trial, they did not provide adequate control until after the aphid numbers had been at damaging levels for some time in the asparagus fern. Evaluations were made for three consecutive weeks following the application. Control of European Asparagus Aphid, Brachycorynella asparagi, 2005
All materials provided good control of spider mites by the end of the trial with the exception of Fulfill. Coverage at 50 GPA was minimal for contact materials and better control could also be expected if air blast type sprayers were used to help penetrate the dense fern.
