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Tobacco thrips as seen under the microscope (Photo by J. Villegas)
Thrips management is crucial to successful cotton production and requires proactive measures from the outset. Thrips possess a unique biology that makes precise timing of insecticide applications difficult without seed treatments. Their eggs are typically deposited in the cotyledons, and as the first true leaf emerges, immature thrips hatch and prefer to feed within the furl stage. Unfortunately, they are well-protected within the furl, making it extremely challenging to reach them with insecticides. Consequently, the first true leaf often sustains damage before it fully expands. Effective thrips management requires realistic expectations for sprays and consideration of the thrips' life cycle.
Supplemental foliar insecticides for thrips management - if additional foliar insecticides are required to manage thrips, several options can be considered:
| Foliar Insecticide/Active Ingredient) | Rate (fl oz/acre | Comments |
| Orthene (acephate) | 3.0 | -effective and cost-efficient choice, but it may result in secondary pest outbreaks like spider mites and aphids |
| Bidrin (dicrotophos) | 3.2 | - effective alternative and less likely to flare spider mites and aphids |
| Dimethoate (dimethoate) | 6.4 | -cost-effective, good efficacy at high rates, minimizes the risk of spider mite issues compared to acephate |
| Radiant (spinetoram) | 1.5 – 3.0 | -effective, requires adjuvant, least likely to flare spider mites or aphids |
| Intrepid Edge (spinetoram + methoxyfenozide) | 3.0 | effective, similar activity to Radiant, an adjuvant may be necessary to enhance the efficacy |
To ensure a fast and vigorous start for cotton, effective thrips management is crucial. The recommended approach involves utilizing suitable at-plant insecticides, such as ISTs or in-furrow treatments, or considering the adoption of ThryvOn cotton. Notably, foliar insecticides should be used as supplementary measures to at-plant treatments, rather than replace them. For more information on thrips management, please check out the LSU AgCenter Insect Pest Management Guide.
