In the same discussion about Velum and Proline, the question of nematode suppression with AgLogic came up. This systemic insecticide suppresses nematodes as well as Velum does. When I mentioned the possibility of aldicarb (the active ingredient in AgLogic and Temik), there was silence, most likely related to price. AgLogic protects peanuts from thrips injury and nematodes. This is the only in-furrow insecticide for peanuts that protects peanuts from both thrips and nematodes.

If a farmer has a significant nematode issue, the farmer needs to apply metam sodium or another fumigant with a proven track record. However, with cotton in the rotation (this farmer), the suppression by AgLogic in areas where nematodes might be found should be adequate.

We know thrips are an issue in every field in NC, and a systemic insecticide in the furrow is the best way to suppress this pest. In the discussion, the grower indicated that imidacloprid was going to be added for insurance (AgLogic was not going to be used.) I would say that while imidacloprid (Admire Pro or generics) is less effective now than a decade ago in numerus fields, it is more than insurance. A degree of suppression with imidacloprid followed by additional suppression of thrips with Hemi plus surfactant is a reasonable approach. Of course, acephate is still an option for postemergence sprays, but we have pockets in the state where acephate is less effective now than it used to be due to resistance in thrips.

At the end of the day, a two-shot approach to suppression of thrips and protection of yield from thrips feeding and vectoring tomato spotted wilt virus is needed in most instances. This can be achieved with in-furrow insecticide followed by foliar insecticide or sequential applications of foliar insecticide that are well timed. Sequential applications of foliar insecticide are logistically challenging. With this approach, we can very often have enough thrips damage that paraquat can cause a yield reduction when applied to the thrips-injured peanuts. In my view, in-furrow followed by foliar (two-shot approach) is the best approach.