Whole Document Navigator (Click Here)    ---------------------------------- Top of Document Diamondback Moth -Plutella xylostella (L.) --Description --Biology --Damage Cabbage Looper -Trichoplusia ni (Hubner) --Description --Biology --Damage Aphids -turnip aphid [Lipaphis erysimi (Kaltenbach)], green peach aphid [Myzus persicae (Sulzer)], cabbage aphid [Brevicoryne brassicae (L.)] --Description --Biology --Damage Beet Armyworm -Spodoptera exigua (Hubner)] --Description and Biology --Damage Cabbage Webworm -Hellula rogatalis (Hulst) --Description --Biology and Damage Cutworms -black cutworm [Agrotis ipsilon (Rott.)] and granulate cutworm [Feltia subterranea (Fabricius)] --Description --Biology --Damage Harlequin Bug -Murgantia histrionica (Hahn) --Description --Biology --Damage Cross-striped Cabbageworm -Evergestis rimosalis (Guenée) --Description --Biology --Damage Yellowmargined Leaf Beetle -Microtheca ochroloma Stal --Description --Biology --Damage Footnotes Disclaimer Copyright Infomation

Insect Management for Crucifers (Cole Crops) (Broccoli, Cabbage, Cauliflower, Collards, Kale, Mustard, Radishes, Turnips)¹

S. E. Webb²

Cruciferous vegetables are a large and increasingly important crop group. A number of insects feed exclusively on crucifers and affect all of the crops listed in the title above. Pesticide tables, listed at the end of this chapter, are specific for each crop. Most of the newer pesticides, however, are being labeled for the entire group or for a subset, either head and stem Brassicas (like cabbage and broccoli) or leafy Brassicas (like kale). Other specialty crops, for which we do not have tables, are listed in these subsets. These include head and stem Brassicas such as Brussels sprouts, Chinese broccoli, and Chinese mustard, and leafy Brassicas such as bok choy, mizuna, and rape greens. Check pesticide labels carefully to see if these crops are included. Radishes and turnips are included in the root vegetables group, even though they are also crucifers and have similar pest problems.

The diamondback moth is the most serious pest of crucifers in Florida. Cabbage looper is also considered a major pest, although it has been less of a problem over the past decade. Insect pests that have been considered major in the past and are only occasionally a problem now include aphids (turnip, green peach, cabbage), harlequin bug, beet armyworm, cabbage webworm, and cutworms (black and granulate). Yellowmargined leaf beetle is a particular problem on mustard and Chinese cabbage, especially for organic growers. Cross-striped cabbageworm is more of a problem on broccoli and cauliflower than it is on other crucifers. Aphids, cutworms, and wireworms are the major insect pests affecting radishes.

Diamondback Moth

Plutella xylostella (L.)

Description

The adult moth ( Figure 1 ) is small and slender with very long antennae. It is grayish-brown with a broad cream or light brown band along its back. The band can have constrictions, which give it a diamond-like pattern. When viewed from the side, the wing tips appear to turn up slightly. Eggs are oval and flattened, yellow to pale green, and approximately 0.02 inches long and 0.01 inches wide. There are four larval instars. Even the oldest is quite small and very active. Larvae will wriggle violently if disturbed and will drop from the leaf suspended by a strand of silk. The body tapers at both ends and the fifth pair of prolegs protrudes from the posterior ( Figure 2 ). After the first instar, which is colorless, the larvae are green. Larvae pupate in a loose cocoon on lower or outer leaves or in the florets of cauliflower and broccoli.

Figure 1. Top side of diamondback moth.

Figure 2. Diamondback moth larva.

Biology

The female moth attaches her eggs to the lower leaf surface, either singly or in groups of two or three. Within a few days, the eggs hatch, and the larvae begin to feed on the underside of the leaf. The larval stage can range from ten days to a month, depending on temperature. Diamondback moth larvae slow their feeding at temperatures below 50°F, and population growth is most rapid at temperatures greater than 80°F. The pupal stage is passed within a transparent, loose cocoon, which is usually attached to the underside of leaves. In warm weather, the pupal stage may be completed in 3 to 4 days.

In southern Florida, diamondback moth is most abundant from December to February or March and can attack at any time during the crop cycle. By the end of May, moth counts in pheromone traps fall to near zero. Moth counts may rise in mid-fall through early winter, but activity is limited during that time. Populations build on winter weeds, such as wild mustard, before moving into winter and early spring plantings of cabbage and other crucifers. From mid-winter through the spring, when it is a serious pest, diamondback moth may cause losses of up to 70 percent in the absence of control. Populations may decrease after heavy rains.

Damage

Plants at all stages of growth may be attacked. Larvae chew small holes in leaves, with larger larvae making larger holes. Often, young larvae feed on one surface of the leaf, leaving a thin layer or "window" of leaf epidermis. Diamondback moth larvae will also attack developing cabbage heads. The resulting damage deforms the heads and leaves entry points for decay pathogens.

Table 1. Diamondback moth

Management Option	Recommendation
Scouting/ Thresholds	Fields should be scouted weekly. One method is to walk a zigzag or figure eight path through the field, in such a way that all four quarters of the field are checked and both interior and border areas are examined. Carry a hand lens (at least 10X) and a notebook and pencil to record observations. Small plastic bags are useful for collecting insects for identification. Thresholds of 0.1 to 0.3 larvae per plant have been used in northeast Florida cabbage. Examine 50 to 100 plants per field (stop 10 to 20 times and examine 5 plants in each location).
Notes	Resistance to insecticides has been the major problem in managing diamondback moth. To reduce this problem, avoid producing crucifers from May to August, destroy crop residues, use pest-free transplants, use different types of Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) as the main insecticides, alternating with some of newer pesticides if needed, and avoid the use of carbamates and pyrethroids.
Natural Enemies	A parasitoid wasp helps control diamondback moth larvae, especially if Bt is the main pesticide used. An egg parasitoid (Trichogramma sp.) and fungal pathogens also aid in control.
Cultural Controls	As listed above, avoiding the warmer months, and destroying crop residues are both important. A recent method of managing diamondback on cabbage is to plant several rows of collards around the perimeter of the fields as a trap crop. For high-value, specialty crucifers, floating row covers put in place immediately after transplanting may eliminate damage.

Cabbage Looper

Trichoplusia ni (Hubner)

Description

Cabbage loopers feed on a variety of crops. The adults ( Figure 3 ) are night-flying moths with brown, mottled fore wings marked in the center with a small, silver figure eight-like spot. Their eggs are small, ridged, round, and greenish-white. The eggs hatch into larvae that are green with white stripes running the length of their bodies. The caterpillar ( Figure 4 ) has three pairs of slender legs near its head and then three pairs of thick prolegs near the end of its body. It moves in a characteristic looping motion, alternately stretching forward and arching its back as it brings the back prolegs close to its front legs. The caterpillar is about 1.25 inches long when fully grown.

Figure 3. Cabbage looper adult male.

Figure 4. Cabbage looper larva.

Biology

Eggs are deposited singly or in small clusters on either leaf surface, although more are found on the lower leaf surface. Each female moth can produce 300 to 600 eggs during the approximately 10 to 12 days it is alive. Two to four weeks after hatching, the mature larva spins a thin cocoon on the lower leaf surface, or in plant debris or soil. The pupal stage lasts approximately two weeks. Total time required for development from egg to adult can be as little as 18 days at 21°C (69.8°F) and 25 days at 32°C (89.6°F).

Populations tend to be highest during the late spring and summer months, and in some years in the late fall. Cabbage looper does not enter diapause and cannot survive prolonged cold weather. The insect remains active and reproduces throughout the winter months only in the southern part of Florida (south of Orlando). In central Florida, cabbage looper populations peak during early fall and again during late spring.

Damage

The cabbage looper is also one of the most important annual pests of Florida crucifers. It is less of a problem in southern Florida, where it is considered a minor pest. In general, cabbage looper is more of a problem during the fall than during the winter or spring months.

Cabbage looper larvae damage plants by chewing holes in leaves. Smaller larvae remain on the lower leaf surface, while larger larvae produce larger holes throughout the leaf. In addition to feeding on the wrapper leaves of cabbage, larvae may bore into the developing head. Some defoliation can be tolerated before head formation, but feeding damage and excrement left behind on heads make cabbage unmarketable. Cabbage with damage confined to wrapper leaves is marketable but with reduced value.

Table 2. Cabbage looper

Management Option	Recommendation
Scouting/ Thresholds	Fields should be scouted weekly. See diamondback moth, above.
Notes	Relying on Bts as the main insecticide and using some of the newer pesticides (spinosad, indoxacarb, tebufenozide) when needed, will help preserve natural enemies.
Natural Enemies	Parasitoid wasps and flies, and general predators help control cabbage looper. A nucleopolyhedrosis virus also kills loopers.
Cultural Controls	Avoid the warmer months when pests are most abundant, destroy crop residues, and control weeds. Planting a nectar source for beneficial insects may be helpful--sweet alyssum has been tested in cabbage. For high-value, specialty crucifers, floating row covers put in place immediately after transplanting may eliminate damage.

Aphids

turnip aphid [Lipaphis erysimi (Kaltenbach)], green peach aphid [Myzus persicae (Sulzer)], cabbage aphid [Brevicoryne brassicae (L.)]

Description

Turnip aphid ( Figure 5 ) and green peach aphid ( Figure 6 ) are the most important aphids on crucifers. Cabbage aphid is not common in Florida. In general, aphid problems on crucifers in Florida tend to be sporadic, but aphids follow diamondback moth and cabbage looper in importance. Adults are soft-bodied, pear- or spindle-shaped insects with a posterior pair of tubes (cornicles or siphunculi), which project upward and backward from the dorsal surface of the abdomen and which are used for excreting a defensive fluid. Aphids have piercing-sucking mouthparts. Nymphs are smaller but otherwise similar in appearance to wingless adults.

Figure 5. Turnip aphid.

Figure 6. Green peach aphid.

Green peach aphid adults vary from 0.04 to 0.08 inch in length and are light green to yellow to pink and pear-shaped. The tubercles (bumps between antennae) point inward and are a distinguishing characteristic. Winged forms have a black patch on the back of the abdomen. Turnip aphid adults are whitish-green or green, about 0.06-0.1inches long. The antennae are dark and the cornicles are pale with dusky tips. The body is covered with a white secretion. Nymphs are pale greenish yellow.

Biology

Aphids reproduce very rapidly. In Florida, males are uncommon and females give birth to live nymphs all year rather than mating and laying eggs. Nymphs mature in 7 to 10 days. When host plant quality deteriorates or if plants become overcrowded, winged forms develop and migrate to new host plants. Aphids have fine, piercing-sucking mouthparts and feed on plant sap. They are often protected from their many natural enemies by ants, which feed on a sugary waste product of the aphids called honeydew. Aphids are more abundant during the spring and fall and almost disappear in summer.

Damage

Green peach aphid is a major pest of greens (collards, kale, and mustard), as well as many other unrelated crops. They attack cabbage mainly before heading begins. Turnip aphids attack only crucifers, preferring turnips and radishes. Aphids suck plant juices with their piercing-sucking mouthparts, resulting in yellowing and curling of the leaves. The plant, particularly when attacked as a seedling, may be stunted or die as a result of aphid feeding. Foliage may be contaminated with aphid bodies, cast skins, and honeydew. Aphids can be protected from insecticide sprays within the curled leaves or inside the cupped leaves of headed plants. Green peach aphid and turnip aphid vector turnip mosaic virus in Florida.

Table 3. Aphids

Management Option	Recommendation
Scouting/ Thresholds	Fields should be scouted weekly. See diamondback moth, above. No information on thresholds is available.
Notes	Relying on Bts as the main insecticide for caterpillar pests and using some of the newer pesticides (spinosad, indoxacarb, tebufenozide) when needed, will help preserve natural enemies of aphids.
Natural Enemies	Parasitoid wasps and general predators, such as ladybeetles, lacewing larvae, and syrphid fly larvae, may completely control aphids if broad spectrum pesticides can be avoided.
Cultural Controls	Destroy crop residues and control cruciferous weeds. Planting a nectar source for beneficial insects may be helpful--sweet alyssum has been tested in cabbage. For high-value, specialty crucifers, floating row covers put in place immediately after transplanting may eliminate damage. However, if any aphids are trapped beneath covers, they will multiply freely in the absence of their natural enemies.

Beet Armyworm

Spodoptera exigua (Hubner)]

Description and Biology

The beet armyworm has a wide host range, and in addition to crucifers it attacks such vegetables as asparagus, bean, beet, celery, chickpea, corn, cowpea, eggplant, lettuce, onion, pea, pepper, potato, spinach, sweet potato, and tomato. It also feeds on many field crops and weeds.

The highly mobile adult moth ( Figure 7 ) has dark front wings with mottled lighter markings and hind wings thinly covered with whitish scales. Each female can lay over 600 eggs, generally in masses of about 100 on the undersides of leaves in the lower plant canopy. Egg masses are covered with fuzzy, white scales. Very young caterpillars ( Figure 8 ), which are pale with dark heads, feed in groups and then disperse as they grow older (third instar). By the third instar, caterpillars have wavy, light-colored stripes lengthwise down the back and broader stripes on each side. Although often dull green, the color of caterpillars can vary. After feeding from one to three weeks, they construct a cocoon from sand and bits of soil and pupate in the soil, emerging as adults about one week later. Beet armyworm is a tropical insect and survives the winter in southern Florida. It can complete many generations a year there. From southern Florida, adults migrate into northern Florida and other parts of the Southeast.

Figure 7. Beet armyworm adult.

Figure 8. Beet armyworm larva.

Damage

Larvae feed on both foliage and fruit of host plants. Beet armyworm larvae consume greater amounts of leaf tissue than the diamondback moth but not as much as the cabbage looper. An action threshold of 0.3 beet armyworm larvae per plant has been used on cabbage in Texas. Since adults can readily invade a field from nearby crops or weeds, monitoring the crop twice a week for beet armyworm presence and damage is recommended.

Beet armyworm is a sporadic pest on Florida crucifers, and it is usually kept under damaging levels by controls targeted to diamondback moth. Beet armyworm populations in southern Florida are highest from late March through mid-June, with a smaller population rise from mid-August through October. The increase in the late summer and fall is thought to be related to beet armyworm activity on late summer weeds, while the population increase in the spring coincides with the leafy vegetable production season in southern Florida.

Table 4. Beet armyworm

Management Option	Recommendation
Scouting/ Thresholds	Fields should be monitored at least weekly for damage by caterpillars feeding on leaves. Pheromone traps can be used to monitor occurrence of moths. Young plants are more susceptible to damage. Look for egg masses on the leaves. Look toward the base of leaves for damage and under outer leaves near the soil surface for larvae that may hide during the day away from their feeding site. Treat if you find 0.3 larvae per plant, using the sampling procedure described for diamondback moth. Best time to treat for this pest is in early morning or early evening.
Notes	Insecticides are most effective against the younger instars with higher rates and more frequent applications needed to try to control later instars. Insecticides are available for foliar applications. Coverage and penetration are important in treating for all of the moth species. Use of surfactants to increase surface coverage increases insecticidal control.
Natural Enemies	Insect predators and parasitoids, as well as pathogens aid in control, but generally do not exert enough pressure to prevent yield loss.
Cultural Controls	Field disking and destruction of crop residues are important for control of all caterpillar and aphid pests to reduce their migration into nearby crops. Beet armyworms develop well on several weeds in the Amaranth group, so weed control on ditch banks surrounding fields can help reduce populations before they invade fields.

Cabbage Webworm

Hellula rogatalis (Hulst)

Description

The moth ( Figure 9 ) has yellowish-brown front wings marked with white bands and a dark kidney-shaped spot. The hind wings are grayish-white with a darker margin. The wingspan is about 0.7-0.8 inches. Eggs have a flattened shape and are gray or yellowish-green to begin with but turn pink as they get close to hatching. There are five larval instars. The mature larva ( Figure 10 ) is yellowish-gray with five brownish-purple bands running the length of its body. Its head is black. Moderately long yellow or light brown hairs sparsely cover the body.

Figure 9. Cabbage webworm adult.

Figure 10. Cabbage webworm larva.

Biology and Damage

Cabbage webworm eggs are usually laid singly or in small masses on the terminal leaves. Upon hatching, the larvae mine the leaves and also feed on the underside of the leaves producing small holes. At about the third instar, larvae begin to web and fold the foliage. The webs become covered with dirt and excrement. Larger larvae can burrow into buds, stems, and leaves. The insect may feed on the growing point, causing severe damage to young plants. When fully grown, larvae pupate in the buds, on the sides of stems, or on the surface of the soil.

Like beet armyworm, cabbage webworm is seen sporadically and is controlled by treatments for diamondback moth. A related species, H. phidilealis, or cabbage budworm, can be a problem in south Florida.

Table 5. Cabbage webworm

Management Option	Recommendation
Scouting/ Thresholds	Fields should be scouted weekly. See diamondback moth, above.
Notes	Relying on Bts as the main insecticide and using some of the newer pesticides (spinosad, indoxacarb, tebufenozide) when needed, will provide control. Younger larvae, less protected by webbing and folded leaves, should be targeted.
Natural Enemies	No important natural enemies are known.
Cultural Controls	Avoid the warmer months when pests are most abundant, destroy crop residues, and control weeds. Planting a nectar source for beneficial insects may be helpful?sweet alyssum has been tested in cabbage. For high-value, specialty crucifers, floating row covers put in place immediately after transplanting may eliminate damage.

Cutworms

black cutworm [Agrotis ipsilon (Rott.)] and granulate cutworm [Feltia subterranea (Fabricius)]

Description

Black cutworm moths ( Figure 11 ) are large, with a wingspan of 1.5 to slightly over 2 inches. The front wings are dark brown with a lighter band near the end of each wing. The hind wings are whitish to gray. The ribbed eggs are first white, and then turn brown and are usually deposited in clusters. The larvae ( Figure 12 ) are stout, gray caterpillars with a greasy appearance. Black cutworm larvae have numerous dark, coarse granules over most of their bodies.

Figure 11. Black cutworm adult.

Figure 12. Black cutworm larva.

Granulate cutworm moths ( Figure 13 ) are smaller, with a wingspan of 1.2 to 1.7 inches. The front wings are often yellowish-brown and have distinct bean-shaped and round spots in the center. The hind wings are mostly white. Eggs are hemispherical and ridged. Like black cutworm eggs, they are initially white and darken with age. Larvae ( Figure 14 ) are grayish to reddish-brown. Each abdominal segment has a dull yellowish oblique mark. A weak gray line occurs along the length of the body with spots of white or yellow.

Figure 13. Granulate cutworm adult.

Figure 14. Granulate cutworm larva.

Biology

The black cutworm is one of the most destructive of the cutworms and attacks a wide range of plants. Although cutworm larvae can migrate into a field from adjacent areas, most migration occurs by adults flying into the field. The moth deposits eggs in groups of one to 30 on leaves, stems, stubble or field debris near ground level. The egg stage lasts from 5 to 15 days, the larval stage lasts from three to four weeks, and the pupal stage takes 12 to 36 days. At high temperatures, when development is more rapid, the life cycle can be completed in six or seven weeks. The life cycle of the granulate cutworm is similar to that of the black cutworm. They are active at night, feeding on the stems and leaves. During the day, they take refuge in the soil at the base of the plants. Larvae tend to curl up into a ring when disturbed or handled. They may also bite and release a greenish-brown fluid.

Damage

Recently transplanted crucifers are particularly susceptible to attack by cutworms, which can cut thin-stemmed plants off at or slightly below the soil surface. They can also cut out large holes from leaves touching the soil. Several plants in a row are usually affected, and the cutworm often pulls the end of the leaf on which it is feeding into a protected area of the soil. Cutworms can also eat into heading cabbage and may remain within the head during the day. Overall, while some damage to leaves and heads occurs, greatest losses from cutworm damage are the result of reduced stands.

Black cutworms do most of their feeding at ground level. Larvae feed on young plants, cutting off leaves, or in later instars, entire plants. Populations of this pest tend to be higher in weedy and in wet fields. Granulate cutworm larvae can cut off entire seedling plants, as well as climb and feed on leaves of older plants. This cutworm is not associated with weedy fields as is the black cutworm. First instar larvae stay on plants, while older larvae climb and feed on plants only during night.

Table 6. Cutworms

Management Option	Recommendation
Scouting/ Thresholds	Seedling crops should be scouted as frequently as twice per week to detect cutworms or their damage, particularly in areas known for this pest. Young larvae may be found grouped together on foliage, but older larvae will usually be found in soil or beneath leaf trash during the day. Look for wilted foliage or plants with severed stems. Adults can be monitored with black light and pheromone traps.
Notes	Insecticides are available for at-plant, pre- and post-emergence broadcast and banded applications. Post emergence applications are the most efficient.
Natural Enemies	Natural enemies such as parasitic wasps, flies, and predacious ground beetles can exert tremendous control pressure that may approach 80%. However, seedlings emerging in fields without resident natural enemy populations can experience significant stand loss from first generation cutworms. Larvae are also targets for attack by pathogenic fungi and viruses.
Cultural Controls	Weedy fields quickly rotated to leafy vegetables have higher potential for stand loss due to surviving older larvae cutting off the emerging plants. Therefore, prepare fallowed fields for production as soon as possible to allow time for surviving larvae to complete development before planting.

Harlequin Bug

Murgantia histrionica (Hahn)

Description

Eggs are barrel-shaped, light gray or pale yellow and are encircled by two black bands. They are generally found beneath leaves in clusters of 12 arranged in two rows of six. Young nymphs ( Figure 15 ) are first pale green with black markings but soon turn black or blue with red and yellow or orange markings. Adults ( Figure 16 ) are also brightly colored, mainly black and yellow or black and red.

Figure 15. Harlequin bug nymph.

Figure 16. Harlequin bug adult.

Biology

Harlequin bug reproduces all year round in Florida. Females produce an average of 115 eggs during their lifetime. Eggs hatch in 4-5 days in warm weather. Newly hatched nymphs stay close to the eggs for one or two days. There are five or six instars. Development times that have been reported range from 30 to 70 days, depending on temperature. Adults can live about two months.

Damage

Harlequin bugs prefer crucifers although they will occasionally feed on other plants. They have piercing-sucking mouthparts and leave white blotches where they feed. Plant may wilt, become deformed, or die, if bugs are abundant.

Cross-striped Cabbageworm

Evergestis rimosalis (Guenée)

Description

The adult moth ( Figure 17 ) has a wingspan of about one inch. The front wings are straw-colored, marked with olive or purplish-brown, and crossed by narrow transverse lines. Hind wings are transparent and whitish, bordered with a darker band. Eggs, laid in small masses, are oval, yellow, and flattened, and overlap slightly. Larvae ( Figure 18 ), which have 4 instars, are gray with black tubercles to begin with and become bluish-gray with numerous transverse black bands. There is a yellow line along each side of the caterpillar. The mature caterpillar is about 0.6-0.7 inches long. The pupa is yellowish-brown, enclosed in a small cocoon covered with sand.

Figure 17. Cross-striped cabbageworm adult.

Figure 18. Cross-striped cabbageworm larva.

Biology

A crucifer specialist, the cross-striped cabbageworm is more of a problem on broccoli, cauliflower, collards, and Brussels sprouts than it is on kale and cabbage. Development time from egg to adult ranges from 61 days at 68°F to 18 days at 95°F. It can be abundant during the winter and spring cropping period in Florida. Larvae pupate in the soil, near the surface.

Damage

Larvae feed on leaves, creating small holes. They prefer terminal buds and may also burrow into the center of developing cabbage heads.

Table 7. Cross-striped cabbageworm

Management Option	Recommendation
Scouting/ Thresholds	Fields should be scouted weekly. See diamondback moth, above.
Notes	Relying on Bts as the main insecticide and using some of the newer pesticides (spinosad, indoxacarb, tebufenozide) when needed, will help preserve natural enemies.
Natural Enemies	Parasitoid wasps and possibly general predators help control cross-striped cabbageworm.
Cultural Controls	Avoid the warmer months when pests are most abundant, destroy crop residues, and control weeds. Planting a nectar source for beneficial insects may be helpful--sweet alyssum has been tested in cabbage. For high-value, specialty crucifers, floating row covers put in place immediately after transplanting may eliminate damage.

Yellowmargined Leaf Beetle

Microtheca ochroloma Stal

Description

The dark bronze or black adult beetle ( Figure 19 ) is about 0.2 inches long. The edges of the wing covers are bordered with yellow. Eggs are bright orange and elongate and are deposited singly or in small clusters in protected spots on the plant or in leaf litter. The soft-bodied larva is yellowish-brown and covered with a fine layer of hairs. The head is dark brown or black. The mature larva pupates in a loose, net-like case in folds of foliage, or in debris on the soil surface.

Figure 19. Yellowmargined leaf beetle.

Biology

Yellowmargined leaf beetle is native to South America and was first found in the United States in 1947. It is restricted to the Gulf Coast states. The life cycle is not well known in Florida. The beetle is capable of completing development in about one month and may be limited by food availability because it is restricted to crucifers. Adults are active all winter in Florida and may live from two to over three months. Turnips, radishes, and mustard are more preferred than cabbage and collards and females that develop on the first three crops produce the most eggs (up to almost 500 eggs per female).

Damage

Yellowmargined leaf beetle is a particular problem for organic growers. It is especially devastating on specialty cruciferous greens like mizuna, but also feeds on turnips, mustard, and other cole crops. The fall crop may suffer more damage than the spring crop. Adults and larvae feed on leaves.

Tables

Table 8. Selected insecticides approved for use on insects attacking broccoli.

Chemical Name	Rate (product/acre)	REI (hours)	Days to Harvest	Insects	MOA Code1	Notes
Admire 2F (imidacloprid)	10-24 fl oz	12	21	aphids, leafhoppers, thrips, whiteflies	4A	Do not apply more than 0.38 lb ai per acre per year.
Admire Pro	4.4-10.5 fl oz
Agree WG (Bacillus thuringiensis subspecies aizawai)	0.5-2.0 lb	4	0	lepidopteran larvae (caterpillar pests)	11B1	Apply when larvae are small for best control. Can be used in greenhouse. OMRI-listed2.
*Ambush 25W3 (permethrin)	3.2-6.4 oz	12	1	cabbage aphid (suppression), cabbage looper, diamondback moth, imported cabbageworm	3	Do not apply more than 51.2 oz/acre per season.
*Ammo 2.5 EC3 (cypermethrin)	2.5-5.0 fl oz	12	1	armyworms, crickets, cutworms, corn earworm, loopers, Lygus bug, flea beetles, imported cabbage worm, leafhoppers, saltmarsh caterpillar, stink bugs, aids in control of aphids and whiteflies	3	Maximum of 30 oz of product/acre per season.
*Asana XL (0.66EC)3 (esfenvalerate)	2.9-9.6 fl oz	12	3	beet armyworm (aids in control), cabbage looper, cutworms, flea beetles, grasshoppers, imported cabbageworm	3	Do not apply more than 0.4 lb ai/acre per season.
Assail 70 WP (acetamiprid)	0.8-1.7 oz	12	7	aphids, whiteflies	4A	Begin applications for whiteflies when first adults are noticed. Do not apply more than 5 times per season or apply more often than every 7 days.
Assail 30 SG	2.0-4.0 oz
Avaunt (indoxacarb)	2.5-3.5 oz	12	3	beet armyworm, cabbage looper, cabbage webworm, cross-striped cabbage worm, diamondback moth, imported cabbageworm	22	Do not apply more than 14 oz per acre per crop. Add a wetting agent to improve coverage.
Aza-Direct (azadirachtin)	1-2 pts, up to 3.5 pts, if needed	4	0	aphids, beetles, caterpillars, leafhoppers, leafminers, mites, stink bugs, thrips, weevils, whiteflies	18B	Antifeedant, repellant, insect growth regulator. OMRI-listed2.
Azatin XL (azadirachtin)	5-21 fl oz	4	0	aphids, beetles, caterpillars, leafhoppers, leafminers, thrips, weevils, whiteflies	18B	Antifeedant, repellant, insect growth regulator.
*Baythroid 23 (cyfluthrin)	0.8-3.2 fl oz	12	0	beet armyworm (1st & 2nd instar), cabbage looper, cabbage webworm, cutworms, diamondback moth larvae, flea beetle, grasshoppers, imported cabbageworm, potato leafhopper, southern armyworm (1st & 2nd instar), thrips, yellowstriped armyworm	3	Maximum number of applications = 4. XL = maximum per crop season: 12.8 fl oz/acre.
*Baythroid XL (beta-cyfluthrin)
Beleaf 50 SG (flonicamid)	2.0-2.8 oz	12	0	aphids, plant bugs	9C	Do not apply more than 8.4 oz/acre per season. Begin applications before pests reach damaging levels.
Biobit HP (Bacillus thuringiensis subspecies kurstaki)	0.5-2.0 lb	4	0	caterpillars (will not control large armyworms)	11B2	Treat when larvae are young. Good coverage is essential. Can be used in the greenhouse. OMRI-listed2.
BotaniGard 22 WP, ES (Beauveria bassiana)	WP: 0.5-2 lb/100 gal ES: 0.5-2 qts/100 gal	4	0	aphids, thrips, whiteflies	--	May be used in greenhouses. Contact dealer for recommendations if an adjuvant must be used. Not compatible in tank mix with fungicides.
*Capture 2 EC3 (bifenthrin)	2.1-6.4 fl oz	12	7	aphids, armyworms, corn earworm, crickets, cucumber beetles, cutworms, diamondback moth, flea beetles, ground beetles, imported cabbageworm, leafhoppers, loopers, mites, saltmarsh caterpillar, stink bugs, thrips, tobacco budworm, whitefly	3	Do not apply more than 1 quart of product per acre per season.
Checkmate DBM-F (pheromone)	3.1-6.2 fl oz	0	0	diamondback moth	--	For mating disruption. Does not affect larvae and eggs already on plants.
Confirm 2F (tebufenozide)	6-8 fl oz	4	7	armyworms, cabbage looper, cabbage webworm, cross-striped cabbageworm, garden webworm, imported cabbageworm	18A	If diamondback moth is also present another, or an additional, insecticide should be considered. Do not exceed 56 ounces of product per season.
Crymax WDG (Bacillus thuringiensis subspecies kurstaki)	0.5-2.0 lb	4	0	caterpillars	11B2	Use high rate for armyworms. Treat when larvae are young.
*Danitol3 (fenpropathrin)	10.67-16 fl oz	24	7	cabbage looper, imported cabbageworm, yellowstriped armyworm	3	Do not apply more than 0.8 lb active ingredient per acre per season.
Deliver (Bacillus thuringiensis subspecies kurstaki)	0.25-1.5 lb	4	0	caterpillars	11B2	Use higher rates for armyworms. OMRI-listed2.
*Diazinon AG-500, *4 EC, *50 W (diazinon)	AG500 (4EC) foliar: 0.5-1 pt 50W: 2-8 lb	24	7	aphids, diamondback moth, dipterous leafminers, imported cabbageworm	1B	No more than 5 foliar applications per season.
	AG500 (4EC) preplant: 1-4 qts 50W: 2-8 lb		preplant	cutworms, mole crickets, root maggots, wireworms	1B	See label depth to incorporate.
Dibrom 8 EC (naled)	1 pt	48	1	aphids, diamondback moth, imported cabbageworm	1B	Apply no more than 1 pt per acre in Florida. Do not apply more than 10 pt per acre per season.
Dimethoate 4 EC; 2.67 (dimethoate)	4EC: 0.5-1 pt 2.67: 0.75-1.5 pt	48	7	aphids	1B	Highly toxic to bes.
DiPel DF (Bacillus thuringiensis subspecies kurstaki)	0.5-2.0 lb	4	0	caterpillars	11B2	Treat when larvae are young. Good coverage is essential.
*Di-Syston 8 EC (disulfoton)	8EC: 1 pt	48	14	aphids, flea beetles, leafhoppers	1B
Endosulfan 3EC (endosulfan)	1-1.33 qt	24	7	armyworms, cabbage aphid, cabbage looper, cross-striped cabbageworm, cutworms, diamondback moth, flea beetles, harlequin bug, imported cabbageworm, leafhoppers, stink bugs, whiteflies	2	Do not make more than 4 applications per year or exceed 3.0 lb active ingredient per acre per year.
Entrust (spinosad)	0.5-3 oz	4	1	armyworms, cabbage looper, diamondback moth, imported cabbageworm, leafminers, thrips	5	See label for resistance management. Do not apply more than 9 oz per acre per crop. OMRI-listed2.
Esteem Ant Bait (pyriproxyfen)	1.5-2.0 lb	12	1	red imported fire ant	7C	Apply when ants are actively foraging.
Extinguish ((S)-methoprene)	1.0-1.5 lb	4	0	fire ants	7A	Slow-acting IGR (insect growth regulator). Best applied early spring and fall where crop will be grown. Colonies will be reduced after three weeks and eliminated after 8 to 10 weeks. This is the only fire ant bait that is labeled for use on cropland. May be applied by ground equipment or aerially.
Fulfill (pymetrozine)	2.75 oz	12	7	cabbage aphid, green peach aphid, turnip aphid, whiteflies	9B	Apply when aphids and whiteflies first appear. Provides suppression of whiteflies. Maximum of 2 applications per crop.
Intrepid 2F (methoxyfenozide)	4-16 fl oz	4	1	beet armyworm, cabbage looper, fall armyworm, garden webworm, imported cabbageworm, southern armyworm, true armyworm, yellowstriped armyworm	18A	Do not apply more than 64 ounces per acre per season.
Javelin WG (Bacillus thuringiensis subspecies kurstaki)	0.12-1.50 lb	4	0	most caterpillars, but not Spodoptera species (armyworms)	11B2	Treat when larvae are young. Thorough coverage is essential. OMRI-listed2.
Knack (pyriproxyfen)	8-10 fl oz	12	7	whiteflies	7C	Limited to 2 applications per season. Florida and Georgia only.
Kryocide (cryolite)	8-16 lb	12	14	cabbage looper, cutworms, diamondback moth, flea beetles, imported cabbageworm, yellowstriped armyworm	9A	Do not exceed 96 lb per acre per season.
*Lannate LV; *SP (methomyl)	LV: 0.75-3.0 pt SP: 0.25-1 lb	48	3	diamondback moth, imported cabbageworm, loopers	1A	Do not make more than 10 applications per crop.
*Larvin 3.2 (thiodicarb)	16-40 fl oz	48	7	beet armyworm, cabbage looper, diamondback moth, flea beetles, imported cabbageworm	1A	Do not exceed more than 4.0 lb active ingredient per acre per season.
Lepinox WDG (Bacillus thuringiensis subspecies kurstaki)	1.0-2.0 lb	12	0	for most caterpillars, including beet armyworm (see label)	11B2	Treat when larvae are small. Thorough coverage is essential.
Lorsban 50W; 75WG (chlorpyrifos)	50W: 2 lb 75WG: 0.67-1.33 lb	24	21	armyworms, beet armyworm, cabbage aphid, cutworms, flea beetles, imported cabbageworm	1B	No more than 3 foliar applications per season of 75WG. Soil application at planting for root maggot.
15G	See label for rates	24	at planting or 30 for side dress	root maggots	1B	Only one application per season. See label for restrictions.
Malathion 8F (malathion)	1.5-2.5 pt	12	3	aphids, cabbage looper, imported cabbageworm	1B
*MSR Spray Concentrate (oxydemeton-methyl)	1.5-2 pt	48	7	aphids	1B	Do not apply more than 3 times per season.
M-Pede 49% EC (soap, insecticidal)	1-2% V/V	12	0	aphids, leafhoppers, mites, thrips, whiteflies	--	OMRI-listed2.
*Mustang Max (zeta-cypermethrin)	2.24-4.0 oz	12	1	aphids (some), armyworms, cabage looper, cabbage webworm, corn earworm, crickets, cucumber beetles, cutworm, flea beetles, grasshoppers, imported cabbageworm, leafhoppers, saltmarsh caterpillar, southern cabbageworm, stink bugs, aids in control of whiteflies	3	Do not make applications less than 7 days apart. Diamondback moth populations in Florida have been found to be resistant to pyrethroids.
Neemix 4.5 (azadirachtin)	4-16 fl oz	12	0	aphids, armyworms, cabbage looper, caterpillars, cutworms, diamondback moth, dipterous leafminers, leafminers, imported cabbageworm, thrips, whiteflies	18B	IGR and feeding repellant. Greenhouse and field. OMRI-listed2.
Oberon 2 SC (spiromesifen)	7.0-8.5 fl oz	12	7	whiteflies	23	Maximum amount per crop: 25.5 fl oz/acre. No more than 3 applications.
*Pounce 25 WP (permethrin)	3.2-6.4 oz	12	1	armyworms, cabbage looper, diamondback moth, imported cabbageworm, plant bugs, thrips	3	Do not apply more than 0.8 lb ai/acre per season.
*Proaxis Insecticide3	1.92-3.84 fl oz	24	1	aphids(2), armyworm, beet armyworm(1), cabbage looper, cabbage webworm, corn earworm, cutworms, diamondback moth, fall armyworm(1), flea beetles, grasshoppers, imported cabbageworm, leafhoppers, southern cabbageworm, spider mites(2), stink bugs, thrips(2), vegetable weevil (adult), whiteflies(2), yellowstriped armyworm	3	(1) First and second instars only. (2)Suppression only. Do not apply more than 1.92 pints per acre per season.
*Proclaim (emamectin benzoate)	2.4-4.8 oz	48	7	beet armyworm, cabbage webworm, corn earworm, crosscabbageworm, diamondback moth, fall armyworm, imported cabbageworm, loopers, suppression of leafminers	6	Do not make more than 2 sequential applications without rotating to another product with a different mode of action. Do not apply by aircraft.
Provado 1.6F (imidacloprid)	3.8 oz	12	7 - foliar	aphids, whiteflies	4A	Do not apply more than 0.5 lb ai per year.
Pyrellin EC (pyrethrins + rotenone)	1-2 pt	12	12 hours	aphids, dipterous leafminers, flea beetles, leafhoppers, leafminers, loopers, lygus bug, mites, plant bugs, thrips, whiteflies	3, 21
Pyronyl Crop Spray (pyrethrins + piperonyl butoxide)	1-12 oz	12	0	ants, aphids, armyworms, cabbage looper, caterpillars, crickets, cross-striped cabbageworm, cucumber beetles, diamondback moth, flea beetles, harlequin bug, imported cabbageworm, leafhoppers, thrips, whiteflies	3
Rimon 0.83 EC (novaluron)	6-12 fl oz	12	7	armyworms, cabbage looper, cabbage webworm, corn earworm, cucumber beetles, diamondback moth, imported cabbageworm, lepidoptera and diptera leafminers, suppression of: stink bugs, thrips, vegetable weevil, whiteflies	15	No more than 3 applications per season.
Sevin 80S; XLR, 4F (carbaryl)	80S: 0.63-2.5 lb XLR, 4F: 0.5-2 qts	12	3	armyworms, corn earworm, diamondback moth, flea beetles, harlequin bug, imported cabbage worm, leafhoppers	1A	Up to 4 applications, at least 7 days apart.
SpinTor 2 SC (spinosad)	1.5-10 fl oz	4	1	armyworms, cabbage looper, diamondback moth, imported cabbageworm, leafminers, thrips	5	Do not apply to cole crops grown within a greenhouse or screenhouse for transplant.
SunSpray 98.8%, others (Oil, insecticidal)	1-2 gal/100 gal	4	up to day of harvest	aphids, leafhoppers, mites, thrips, whiteflies	--
*Telone C-35 (dichloropropene + chloropicrin)	See label	5 days - See label	preplant	symphylans, wireworms	--	See supplemental label for use restrictions for south and central Florida.
*Telone II (dichloropropene)
Trigard (cyromazine)	2.66 oz	12	7	leafminers	17	Limited to 6 applications.
Trilogy (extract of neem oil)	0.5-2% V/V	4	0	aphids, mites, suppression of thrips and whiteflies	18B	Apply morning or evening to reduce potential for leaf burn. Toxic to bees exposed to direct treatment. OMRI-listed2.
Venom Insecticide (dinotefuran)	foliar: 1-4 oz soil: 5-6 oz	12	foliar - 1 soil - 21	cabbage aphid, green peach aphid, leafminer, whiteflies	4A	Use one application method, not both (soil or foliar). Foliar: Do not apply more than 0.268 lb ai per season. Soil: Do not apply more than 0.536 lb ai per acre per season.
Venom 20 SG	foliar: 0.44-0.895 lb soil: 1.13-1.34 lb
*Warrior3 (lambda-cyhalothrin)	1.92-3.84 fl oz	24	1	aphids(1), beet armyworm(2), cabbage looper, cabbage webworm, corn earworm, cutworms, diamondback moth, fall armyworm, flea beetles, grasshoppers, imported cabbageworm, leafhoppers, mites(1), plant bugs, stink bugs, thrips(1), whiteflies(1), yellowstriped armyworm	3	Do not apply more than 0.24 lb ai/acre per season. (1) suppression only (2) 1st and 2nd instar only
Xentari DF (Bacillus thuringiensis subspecies aizawai)	0.5-2.0 lb	4	0	caterpillars	11B1	Treat when larvae are young. Thorough coverage is essential. May be used in the greenhouse. Can be used in organic production.
The pesticide information presented in this table was current with federal and state regulations at the time of revision. The user is responsible for determining the intended use is consistent with the label of the product being used. Use pesticides safely. Read and follow label instructions.
1 Mode of Action codes for vegetable pest insecticides from the Insecticide Resistance Action Committee (IRAC) Mode of Action Classification v.5.2 September 2006. 1A. Acetylcholine esterase inhibitors, Carbamates 1B. Acetylcholine esterase inhibitors, Organophosphates 2A. GABA-gated chloride channel antagonists 3. Sodium channel modulators 4A. Nicotinic Acetylcholine receptor agonists/antagonists, Neonicotinoids 5. Nicotinic Acetylcholine receptor agonists (not group 4) 6. Chloride channel activators 7A. Juvenile hormone mimics, Juvenile hormone analogues 7C. Juvenile hormone mimics, Pyriproxifen 9A. Compounds of unknown or non-selective mode of action (selective feeding blockers), Cryolite 9B. Compounds of unknown or non-selective mode of action (selective feeding blockers), Pymetrozine 9C. Compounds of unknown or non-selective mode of action (flunicamid) 11B1. Microbial disruptors of insect midgut membranes, B.t. var aizawai 11B2. Microbial disruptors of insect midgut membranes, B.t. var kurstaki 12B. Inhibitors of oxidative phosphorylation, disruptors of ATP formation, Organotin miticide 15. Inhibitors of chitin biosynthesis, type 0, Lepidopteran 16. Inhibitors of chitin biosynthesis, type 1, Homopteran 17. Molting disrupter, Dipteran 18A. Ecdysone agonist/disruptor (methoxyfenozide, tebufenozide) 18B. Ecdysone agonist/disruptor (azadirachtin) 20. Site II electron transport inhibitors 21. Site I electron transport inhibitors 22. Voltage-dependent sodium channel blocker 23. Inhibitors of lipid biosynthesis 25. Neuronal inhibitors 2OMRI-listed: Listed by the Organic Materials Review Institute for use in organic production. 3Avoid pyrethroids if diamondback moth is a problem. Larvae have been shown to be resistant.
* Restricted Use Only.

Table 9. Selected insecticides approved for use on insects attacking cabbage.

Chemical Name	Rate (product/acre)	REI (hours)	Days to Harvest	Insects	MOA Code1	Notes
Admire 2F (imidacloprid)	10-24 fl oz	12	21 - soil	aphids, leafhoppers, thrips, whiteflies	4A	Do not apply more than 0.38 lb ai per acre per year.
Admire Pro	4.4-10.5 fl oz
Agree WG (Bacillus thuringiensis subspecies aizawai)	0.5-2.0 lb	4	0	lepidopteran larvae (caterpillar pests)	11B1	Apply when larvae are small for best control. Can be used in greenhouse. OMRI-listed2.
*Ambush 25W3 (permethrin)	3.2-12.8 oz	12	1	cabbage aphid (supression), cabbage looper, diamondback moth, imported cabbageworm	3	Do not apply more than 1.0 lb ai/acre per season.
*Ammo 2.5EC3 (cypermethrin)	2.5-5.0 fl oz	12	1	aphids (aids in control), armyworms, crickets, cutworms, flea beetles, imported cabbageworm, leafhoppers, loopers, lygus bug, saltmarsh caterpillars, stink bugs, thrips, whiteflies (aids in control)	3
*Asana XL 0.66 EC3 (esfenvalerate)	2.9-9.6 fl oz	12	3	beet armyworm (aids in control), cabbage looper, cutworms, flea beetles, grasshoppers, imported cabbageworm	3	Do not apply more than 0.4 lb ai/acre per season.
Assail 70 WP (acetamiprid)	0.8-1.7 oz	12	7	aphids, whiteflies	4A	Begin applications for whiteflies when first adults are noticed. Do not apply more than 5 times per season or apply more often than every 7 days.
Assail 30 SG	2.0-4.0 oz
Avaunt (indoxacarb)	2.5-3.5 oz	12	3	beet armyworm, cabbage looper, cabbage webworm, cross-striped cabbageworm, diamondback moth, imported cabbageworm	22	Do not apply more than 0.26 lb ai/acre per crop. Add a wetting agent to improve coverage.
Aza-Direct (azadirachtin)	1-2 pts, up to 3.5 pts, if needed	4	0	aphids, beetles, caterpillars, leafhoppers, leafminers, mites, stink bugs, thrips, weevils, whiteflies	18B	Antifeedant, repellant, insect growth regulator. OMRI-listed2.
Azatin XL (azadirachtin)	5-21 fl oz	4	0	aphids, beetles, caterpillars, leafhoppers, leafminers, thrips, weevils, whiteflies	18B	Antifeedant, repellant, insect growth regulator.
*Baythroid 23 (cyfluthrin)	0.8-3.2 fl oz	12	0	beet armyworm (1st & 2nd instar), cabbage looper, cabbage webworm, cutworms, diamondback moth larvae, grasshoppers, imported cabbage worm, southern armyworm (1st & 2nd instar), thrips, yellowstriped armyworm	3	2: Limit 4 applications per crop. 2 and XL: maximum perseason - 12.8 fl oz/acre.
*Baythroid XL (beta-cyfluthrin)
Beleaf 50 SG (flonicamid)	2.0-2.8 oz	12	0	aphids, plant bugs	9C	Do not apply more than 8.4 oz/acre per season. Begin applications before pests reach damaging levels.
Biobit HP (Bacillus thuringiensis subspecies kurstaki)	0.5-2.0 lb	4	0	caterpillars (will not control large armyworms)	11B2	Treat when larvae are young. Good coverage is essential. Can be used in the greenhouse. OMRI-listed2.
BotaniGard 22 WP, ES (Beauveria bassiana)	WP: 0.5-2 lb/100 gal ES: 0.5-2 qts/100 gal	4	0	aphids, thrips, whiteflies	--	May be used in greenhouses. Contact dealer for recommendations if an adjuvant must be used. Not compatible in tank mix with fungicides.
*Capture 2 EC3 (bifenthrin)	2.1-6.4 fl oz	12	7	aphids, armyworms, corn earworm, crickets, cucumber beetles, cutworms, diamondback moth, flea beetles, ground beetles, imported cabbageworm, leafhoppers, loopers, mites, saltmarsh caterpillar, stink bugs, thrips, tobacco budworm, whiteflies	3	Do not apply more than one quart of product per acre per season.
Checkmate DBM-F (pheromone)	3.1-6.2 fl oz	0	0	diamondback moth	--	For mating disruption. Does not affect eggs and larvae already on plants.
Confirm 2F (tebufenozide)	6-8 fl oz	4	7	armyworms, cabbage looper, cabbage webworm, cross-striped cabbageworm, garden webworm, imported cabbageworm	18A	If diamondback moth is also present another, or an additional, insecticide should be considered. Do not exceed 56 ounces of product per season.
Crymax WDG (Bacillus thuringiensis subspecies kurstaki)	0.5-2.0 lb	4	0	caterpillars	11B2	Use high rate for armyworms. Treat when larvae are young.
*Danitol3 (fenpropathrin)	10.67-16 fl oz	24	7	cabbage looper, imported cabbageworm, yellowstriped armyworm	3	Do not apply more than 0.8 lb active ingredient per acre per season.
Deliver (Bacillus thuringiensis subspecies kurstaki)	0.25-1.5 lb	4	0	caterpillars	11B2	Use higher rates for armyworms. OMRI-listed2.
*Diazinon AG-500; *4 EC; *50 W (diazinon)	AG500, 4EC foliar: 0.5-1 pt 50W: 0.5-1 lb	24	21	aphids, diamondback moth, imported cabbageworm, leafminers	1B	Limit 5 foliar applications per year.
	AG500, 4EC: 0.5-1 pt 50W: 0.5-1 lb		preplant	cutworms, mole crickets, root maggots, wireworms	1B	See label for depth to incorporate.
Dibrom 8 EC (naled)	1 pt	48	1	aphids, diamondback moth, imported cabbageworm	1B	Do not apply more than 1 pt per acre in Florida. Limit:10 pt per season.
Dimilin 2L (diflubenzuron)	2-4 oz	12	7	grasshoppers	15	Dimilin is an insect growth regulator - insects must ingest and molt before effects are seen. Apply when grasshoppers are in the 2nd to 3rd nymphal stage.
DiPel DF (Bacillus thuringiensis subspecies kurstaki)	0.5-2.0 lb	4	0	caterpillars	11B2	Treat when larvae are young. Good coverage is essential. OMRI-listed2.
*Di-Syston 8 EC (disulfoton)	8EC: 1-2 pt	48	42	aphids, flea beetles, leafhoppers	1B	See label for details on rates.
Endosulfan 3 EC (endosulfan)	1-1.33 qt	24	7	armyworms, cabbage aphid, cabbage looper, crosscabbageworm, cutworms, diamondback moth, flea beetles, harlequin bug, imported cabbageworm, leafhoppers, stink bugs, whiteflies	2	Do not make more than 4 applications per year or exceed 3.0 lb active ingredient per acre per year.
Entrust (spinosad)	0.5-3 oz	4	1	armyworms, cabbage looper, diamondback moth, imported cabbage worm, leafminers, thrips	5	Do not apply more than 9 oz per acre per crop. OMRI-listed2.
Esteem Ant Bait (Pyriproxyfen)	1.5-2.0 lb	12	1	red imported fire ant	7C	Apply when ants are actively foraging.
Extinguish ((S)-methoprene	1.0-1.5 lb	4	0	fire ants	7A	Slow-acting IGR (insect growth regulator). Best applied early spring and fall where crop will be grown. Colonies will be reduced after three weeks and eliminated after 8 to 10 weeks. This is the only fire ant bait that is labeled for use on cropland. May be applied by ground equipment or aerially.
Fulfill (pymetrozine)	2.75 oz	12	7	cabbage aphid, green peach aphid, turnip aphid, whiteflies	9B	Apply when aphids and whiteflies first appear. Provides suppression of whiteflies. Maximum of 2 applications per crop.
Intrepid 2F (methoxyfenozide)	4-16 fl oz	4	1	beet armyworm, cabbage looper, fall armyworm, garden webworm, imported cabbageworm, southern armyworm, true armyworm, yellowstriped armyworm	18A	Limited to a total of 64 ounces per acre per season.
Javelin (Bacillus thuringiensis subspecies kurstaki)	0.12-1.50 lb	4	0	most caterpillars, but not Spodoptera species (armyworms)	11B2	Treat when larvae are young. Thorough coverage is essential. OMRI-listed2.
Knack IGR (pyriproxyfen)	8-10 fl oz	12	7	whiteflies	7C	Do not apply more than twice per season.
Kryocide (cryolite)	8-16 lb	12	14	cabbage looper, corn earworm, cutworms, Diabrotica beetles, diamondback moth, flea beetles, imported cabbageworm, yellowstriped armyworm	9A	Minimum of 7 days between applications. Do not exceed 96 lb per acre per season.
*Lannate LV; *SP (methomyl)	LV: 0.75-3.0 pt SP: 0.25-1.0 lb	48	1	diamondback moth, fall armyworm, imported cabbageworm, loopers, variegated cutworm	1A	Use a wetting agent to improve coverage.
*Larvin 3.2 (thiodicarb)	16-40 fl oz	48	7	alfalfa looper, beet armyworm, cabbage looper, diamondback moth, flea beetles, imported cabbageworm	1A	Do not exceed more than 4 lb active ingredient per acre per season.
Lepinox WDG (Bacillus thuringiensis subspecies kurstaki)	1.0-2.0 lb	12	0	for most caterpillars, including beet armyworm (see label)	11B2	Treat when larvae are small. Thorough coverage is essential.
Lorsban 50W; 75WG (chlorpyrifos)	50W: 2 lb 75WG: 0.67-1.33 lb	24	21	aphids, armyworms, beet armyworm, cutworms, diamondback moth, flea beetles, imported cabbageworm	1B	Soil application at planting for root maggot. Maximum of 3 foliar applications of 75WG.
15 G	See labels		preplant	root maggots	1B	One application per season.
Malathion 8 F (malathion)	1.5-2.5 pt	12	7	aphids, cabbage looper, diamondback moth, imported cabbageworm, webworms	1B	For best results, combine with other recommended insecticides.
*MSR Spray Concentrate (oxydemeton-methyl)	1.5-3 pt	48	7	aphids, thrips	1B	Do not apply more than 3 times per season.
Mocap 10 G, *15 G (ethoprop)	See labels	48	preplant	symphylans	1B
M-Pede 49% EC (Soap, insecticidal)	1-2% V/V	12	0	aphids, leafhoppers, mites, plant bugs, thrips, whiteflies	--	OMRI-listed2.
*Mustang Max3 (zeta-cypermethrin)	2.24-4.0 oz	12	1	aphids (some), armyworms, cabage looper, cabbage webworm, corn earworm, crickets, cucumber beetles, cutworm, flea beetles, grasshoppers, imported cabbageworm, leafhoppers, saltmarsh caterpillar, southern cabbage worm, stink bugs, aids in control of whiteflies	3	Do not make applications less than 7 days apart. Diamondback moth populations in Florida have been found to be resistant to pyrethroids.
Neemix 4.5 (azadirachtin)	4-16 fl oz	12	0	aphids, armyworms, cabbage looper, cutworms, diamondback moth, imported cabbageworm, leafminers, thrips, webworms, whiteflies	18B	IGR and feeding repellant. Greenhouse and field. OMRI-listed2.
Oberon 2 SC (spiromesifen)	7.5-8.0 fl oz	12	7	whiteflies	23	Maximum amount per crop: 25.5 fl oz/acre. No more than 3 applications.
*Pounce 25 WP1 (permethrin)	3.2-12.8 oz	12	1	armyworms, cabbage looper, cutworms, diamondback moth, flea beetles, imported cabbageworm, southern white butterfly	3	Do not apply more than 1.0 lb ai/acre per season.
*Proaxis Insecticide1 (gamma-cyhalothrin)	1.92-3.84 fl oz	24	1	aphids(1), armyworm, beet armyworm(1), cabbage looper, cabbage webworm, corn earworm, cutworms, diamondback moth, fall armyworm(2), flea beetles, grasshoppers, imported cabbageworm, leafhoppers, southern cabbageworm, spider mites(1), stink bugs, thrips(1), vegetable weevil (adult), whiteflies(1), yellowstriped armyworm	3	(1) Suppression only. (2) First and second instars only. Do not apply more than 1.92 pints per acre per season.
*Proclaim (emamectin benzoate)	2.4-4.8 oz	48	7	beet armyworm, cabbage webworm, corn earworm, crosscabbageworm, diamondback moth, fall armyworm, imported cabbageworm, loopers	6	Do not make more than 2 sequential applications without rotating to another product with a different mode of action. Do not apply by aircraft.
Provado 1.6 F (imidacloprid)	3.8 oz	12	7 - foliar	aphids, flea beetles, whiteflies	4A	Maximum per season 18.8 ox/acre.
Pyrellin EC (pyrethrin + rotenone)	1-2 pt	12	12 hours	aphids, cabbage looper, flea beetles, harlequin bug, imported cabbageworm, leafhoppers, leafminers, Lygus bug, mites, plant bugs, stink bugs, thrips, vegetable weevils, whiteflies	3, 21
Pyronyl Crop Spray (pyrethrins + piperonyl butoxide)	1-12 oz	12	0	ants, aphids, armyworms, cabbage looper, corn earworm, cucumber beetles, flea beetle, leafhoppers, crickets, cross-striped cabbageworm, diamondback moth, harlequin bug, imported cabbageworm, thrips, webworms, whiteflies	3
Rimon 0.83 EC (novaluron)	6-12 fl oz	12	7	armyworms, cabbage looper, cabbage webworm, corn earworm, cucumber beetles, diamondback moth, imported cabbageworm, leafminers, suppression of: thrips and whiteflies.	15	Do not apply more than 24 oz per acre per season. See label for application timing.
Sevin 80S; XLR, 4F (carbaryl)	80S: 0.63-2.5 lb XLR, 4F: 0.5-2 qts	12	3	armyworms, corn earworm, diamondback moth, fall armyworm, flea beetle, harlequin bug, imported cabbageworm, stink bugs	1A	Up to 4 applications, at least 7 days apart.
SpinTor 2 SC (spinosad)	1.5-10 fl oz	4	1	armyworms, cabbage looper, diamondback moth, imported cabbageworm, leafminers, thrips	5	Do not apply to cole crops grown for transplant within a greenhouse or screenhouse.
SunSpray 98.8%; JMS Stylet-Oil; others (Oil, insecticidal)	3-6 qt/100 gal (JMS) See labels	4	0	aphids, leafhoppers, leafminers, mites, thrips, whiteflies	--	See label for cautions on tank mixes. Organic Stylet-Oil is OMRI-listed2.
*Telone C-35 (dichloropropene + chloropicrin)	See label	5 days - See label	2-4 weeks preplant	symphylans, wireworms		See supplemental label for use restrictions in south and central Florida.
*Telone II (dichloropropene)
Trigard (cyromazine)	2.66 oz	12	7	leafminers	17	Limited to 6 applications.
Trilogy (extract of neem oil)	0.5-2.0% V/V	4	0	aphids, mites, suppression of thrips and whiteflies	18B	Apply morning or evening to reduce potential for leaf burn. Toxic to bees exposed to direct treatment. OMRI-listed2.
Venom Insecticide (dinotefuran)	foliar: 1-4 oz soil: 5-6 oz	12	foliar - 1 soil - 21	cabbage aphid, green peach aphid, leafminer, whiteflies	4A	Do not apply more than 0.268 lb ai per acre per season (foliar) or 0.536 lb ai per acre per season (soil). Use only one method of application (soil or foliar).
Venom 20 SG	foliar: 0.44-0.895 lb soil: 1.13-1.34 lb
*Warrior3 (lambda-cyhalothrin)	1.92-3.84 fl oz	24	1	aphids(1), beet armyworm(2), cabbage looper, cabbage webworm, cutworms, diamondback moth, fall armyworm(2), flea beetles, grasshoppers, imported cabbageworm, leafhoppers, spidermites(1), stink bugs, thrips(1), whiteflies(1), yellowstriped armyworm	3	Do not apply more than 0.24 lb ai/acre per season. (1) Suppression only. (2) 1st and 2nd instars only.
Xentari DF (Bacillus thuringiensis subspecies aizawai)	0.5-2.0 lb	4	0	caterpillars	11B1	Treat when larvae are young. Thorough coverage is essential. May be used in the greenhouse. Can be used in organic production.
The pesticide information presented in this table was current with federal and state regulations at the time of revision. The user is responsible for determining the intended use is consistent with the label of the product being used. Use pesticides safely. Read and follow label instructions.
1 Mode of Action codes for vegetable pest insecticides from the Insecticide Resistance Action Committee (IRAC) Mode of Action Classification v.5.2 December 2006. 1A. Acetylcholine esterase inhibitors, Carbamates 1B. Acetylcholine esterase inhibitors, Organophosphates 2A. GABA-gated chloride channel antagonists 3. Sodium channel modulators 4A. Nicotinic Acetylcholine receptor agonists/antagonists, Neonicotinoids 5. Nicotinic Acetylcholine receptor agonists (not group 4) 6. Chloride channel activators 7A. Juvenile hormone mimics, Juvenile hormone analogues 7C. Juvenile hormone mimics, Pyriproxifen 9A. Compounds of unknown or non-specific mode of action (selective feeding blockers), Cryolite 9B. Compounds of unknown or non-specific mode of action (selective feeding blockers), Pymetrozine 9C. Compounds of unknown or non-specific mode of action (flonicamid) 11B1. Microbial disruptors of insect midgut membranes, B.t. var aizawai 11B2. Microbial disruptors of insect midgut membranes, B.t. var kurstaki 12B. Inhibitors of oxidative phosphorylation, disruptors of ATP formation, Organotin miticide 15. Inhibitors of chitin biosynthesis, type 0, Lepidopteran 16. Inhibitors of chitin biosynthesis, type 1, Homopteran 17. Inhibitors of chitin biosynthesis, type 2, Dipteran 18A. Ecdysone agonist/disruptor 18B. Ecdysone agonist/disruptor (azadirachtin) 20. Site II electron transport inhibitors 21. Site I electron transport inhibitors 22. Voltage-dependent sodium channel blocker 23. Inhibitors of lipid biosynthesis 25. Neuronal inhibitors 2 OMRI-listed: Listed by the Organic Materials Review Institute for use in organic 3Avoid pyrethroids if diamondback moth is a problem. Larvae have been shown to be resistant
*Restricted Use Only.

Table 10. Selected insecticides approved for use on insects attacking cauliflower.

Chemical Name	Rate (product/acre)	REI (hours)	Days to Harvest	Insects	MOA Code1	Notes
Admire 2F (imidacloprid)	10-24 fl oz	12	21	aphids, whiteflies	4A	Do not apply more than 0.38 lb ai per acre per year.
Admire Pro	4.4-10.5			aphids, leafhoppers, foliage-feeding thrips, whiteflies		See label for application methods. Limited to 0.38 lb ai per acre.
Agree WG (Bacillus thuringiensis subspecies aizawai)	0.5-2.0 lb	4	0	lepidopteran larvae (caterpillar pests)	11B1	Apply when larvae are small for best control. Can be used in greenhouse. OMRI-listed2.
*Ambush 25W3 (permethrin)	3.2-6.4 oz	12	1	cabbage aphid (suppression), cabbage looper, diamondback moth (larvae), imported cabbageworm	3	Do not apply more than 0.8 lb ai/acre per season.
*Ammo 2.5 EC3 (cypermethrin)	2.5-5.0 fl oz	12	1	armyworms, crickets, corn earworm, cutworms, flea beetles, imported cabbageworm, leafhoppers, loopers, lygus bug, stink bugs, aids in control of aphids and whiteflies	3	Maximum of 30 ounces of product per season.
*Asana XL 0.66EC3 (esfenvalerate)	2.9-9.6 fl oz	12	3	beet armyworm (aids in control), cabbage looper, cutworms, flea beetles, grasshoppers, imported cabbageworm	3	Do not apply more than 0.4 lb ai/acre per season.
Assail 70WP (acetamiprid)	0.8-1.7 oz	12	7	aphids, whiteflies	4A	Begin applications for whiteflies when first adults are noticed. Do not apply more than 5 times per season or apply more often than every 7 days.
Assail 30SG	2.0-4.0 oz
Avaunt (indoxacarb)	2.5-3.5 oz	12	3	beet armyworm cabbage looper, cabbage webworm, cross-striped cabbage worm, diamondback moth, imported cabbageworm	22	Do not apply more than 0.26 lb ai/acre per crop. Add a wetting agent to improve coverage.
Aza-Direct (azadirachtin)	1-2 pts, up to 3.5 pts, if needed	4	0	aphids, beetles, caterpillars, leafhoppers, leafminers, thrips, weevils, whiteflies	18B	Antifeedant, repellant, insect growth regulator. OMRI-listed2.
Azatin XL (azadirachtin)	5-21 fl oz	4	0	aphids, beetles, caterpillars, leafhoppers, leafminers, thrips, weevils, whiteflies	18B	Antifeedant, repellant, insect growth regulator.
*Baythroid 23 (cyfluthrin)	0.8-3.2 fl oz	12	0	beet armyworm (1st & 2nd instar), cabbage looper, cabbage webworm, cutworms, diamondback moth larvae, fall armyworm (1st & 2nd instar), grasshoppers, imported cabbage worm, southern armyworm (1st & 2nd instar), thrips, yellowstriped armyworm	3	2: Limit 4 applications per season. 2 and XL: Maximum amount per season - 12.8 fl oz/A
*Baythroid XL (beta cyfluthrin)
Beleaf 50 SG (flonicamid)	2.0-2.8 oz	12	0	aphids, plant bugs	9C	Do not apply more than 8.4 oz/acre per season. Begin applications before pests damaging levels.
Biobit HP (Bacillus thuringiensis subspecies kurstaki)	0.5-2.0 lb	4	0	lepidopteran larvae (caterpillar pests)	11B2	Apply when larvae are small for best control. OMRI-listed2.
BotaniGard 22 WP, ES (Beauveria bassiana)	WP: 0.5-2 lb/100 gal ES: 0.5-2 qts/100 gal	4	0	aphids, thrips, whiteflies	--	May be used in greenhouses. Contact dealer for recommendations if an adjuvant must be used. Not compatible in tank mix with fungicides.
*Capture 2 EC3 (bifenthrin)	2.1-6.4 fl oz	12	7	aphids, armyworms, corn earworm, crickets, cucumber beetles, cutworms, diamondback moth, flea beetles, ground beetles, imported cabbageworm, leafhoppers, loopers, mites, saltmarsh caterpillar, stink bugs, thrips, tobacco budworm, whiteflies	3	Do not apply more than one quart of product per acre per season.
Checkmate DBM-F (pheromone)	3.1-6.2 fl oz	0	0	diamondback moth	--	For mating disruption. Does not affect eggs and larvae already on plant.
Confirm 2F (tebufenozide)	6-8 fl oz	4	7	armyworms, cabbage looper, cabbage webworm, cross-striped cabbageworm, garden webworm, imported cabbageworm	18A	If diamondback moth is also present another, or an additional, insecticide should be considered. Do not exceed 56 ounces of product per acre per season.
Crymax WDG (Bacillus thuringiensis subspecies kurstaki)	0.5-2.0 lb	4	0	caterpillars	11B2	Use high rate for armyworms. Treat when larvae are young.
*Danitol3 (fenpropathrin)	10.67-16 fl oz	24	7	cabbage aphid(1), cabbage looper, cabbage webworm(1), green peach aphid(1), imported cabbageworm, whiteflies(1), yellowstriped armyworm	3	Do not apply more than 0.8 lb active ingredient per acre per season. (1) Suppression only, or use mixed with Orthene (14-day Pt/I)..
Deliver (Bacillus thuringiensis subspecies kurstaki)	0.25-1.5 lb	4	0	caterpillars	11B2	Use higher rates for armyworms. OMRI-listed2.
*Diazinon AG-500, *4EC, *50W (diazinon)	AG500, 4EC foliar: 0.5-1 pt 50W foliar: 0.5-1 lb	24	7	aphids, diamondback moth, dipterous leafminers, imported cabbageworm	1B	Do not make more than 5 foliar applications per year.
	AG500, 4EC preplant: 1-4 qts 50W preplant: 2-8 lb		preplant	cutworms, mole crickets, root maggots, wireworms	1B	See label for depth to incorporate.
Dibrom 8EC (naled)	1 pt	48	1	aphids, diamondback moth (larvae), imported cabbageworm	1B	Apply no more than 1 pt per acre in Florida. Limit: 10 pt per acre per season.
Dimethoate 4EC (dimethoate)	4EC: 0.5-1 pt 2.67: 0.75-1.50 pt	48	7	aphids	1B	Highly toxic to bees.
DiPel DF (Bacillus thuringiensis subspecies kurstaki)	0.5-2.0 lb	4	0	caterpillars	11B2	Treat when larvae are young. Good coverage is essential.
*Di-Syston 8 (disulfoton)	1 pt	48	40	aphids, flea beetles, leafhoppers	1B
Endosulfan 3EC (endosulfan)	1-1.33 qts	24	14	armyworms, cabbage aphids, cabbage looper, cross-striped cabbageworm, cutworms, diamondback moth (larve), flea beetles, harlequin bug, imported cabbageworm, leafhoppers, stink bugs, whiteflies	2	Do not make more than 4 applications per year or exceed 3.0 lb active ingredient per acre per year.
Entrust (spinosad)	0.5-3.0 oz	4	1	armyworms, cabbage looper, diamondback moth, imported cabbageworm, leafminers, thrips	5	Do not apply more than 9 oz per acre per crop. OMRI-listed2.
Esteem Ant Bait (pyriproxyfen)	1.5-2.0 lb	12	1	red imported fire ant	7C	Apply when ants are foraging.
Extinguish ((S)-methoprene)	1-1.5 lb	4	0	fire ants	7A	Slow-acting IGR (insect growth regulator). Best applied early spring and fall where crop will be grown. Coloni