Insect management on transgenic tobacco produced for high-value protein.
PI(s): Semtner, Paul J
Investigators: Reed, Thomas David
Abstract: Genetically modified tobacco for valuable proteins has excellent potential for commercial production in the tobacco growing regions of Virginia. This crop will be produced for maximum yield of specific proteins. The plants will be grown at very high densities and clipped three to five times a year. The objectives of this research are to determine the major insect problems and to develop strategies for managing these pests. Preliminary studies indicate that several insect problems on tobacco grown for protein are different from those on tobacco produced for cured leaf.
Description:
Studies were conducted on the management of insect pests on tobacco grown at high density for high-value proteins in 1999-2004. Tobacco grown for biomass is harvested several times during the growing season. Because it is produced much differently and for different purposes than conventionally grown tobacco, it has unique pest problems. The objectives of this research are to determine the major insect problems on biomass tobacco and to develop strategies for managing these pests. The most important insect pests are aphids and hornworms in July and August and potato tuberworms and tobacco budworms in August and September. Flea beetles are a problem for 3 or 4 weeks after transplanting, but they had little impact on yield. Research also assessed Insect problems on biomass tobacco conventional tillage and plastic mulch culture with drip irrigation systems.
Commodities: Tobacco
Resources: Agricultural Experiment Station Facilities
Disciplines: Integrated Pest Management, Pesticides
Audiences: Agribusiness, Commodity Groups, Researchers
