The Penn State Agronomy Guide 1

2021–2022
THE AGRONOMY
GUIDE
About the Guide Precautions on Pesticide Use
• Use of restricted pesticides requires certification.
The Penn State Agronomy Guide is designed for easy reading • Use pesticides only when necessary.
and quick reference. • Use pesticides only at the recommended dosages and
timing to keep residues on crops and animals within the
In Part I: Crop and Soil Management, the sections on specific limits set by law.
crops include information about: • Avoid spray or dust drift to other crops and bee yards.
• Varieties • Cover food and water containers in livestock areas.
• Nutritional Requirements • Read the label and follow safety precautions listed.
• Establishment • Maintain a pesticide use record and inventory. Wear
• Harvesting protective masks and clothing if so directed on label.
• Special Considerations • Avoid inhaling pesticides.
• Never eat or smoke while spraying or dusting.
In Part II: Pest Management, the sections on pest control for • Avoid spilling spray materials on skin and clothing. If
specific crops include information on: spilled, wash off immediately with soap and water.
• Weeds • Wash hands and face and change to clean clothing after
• Insects spraying or dusting. Wash spray clothing after each day’s
• Diseases use.
• Store pesticides in original containers and out of reach
The College of Agricultural Sciences strongly recommends of children, pets, and livestock, and away from food
that you have a soil test made to determine your lime and fer- and feed; keep in a locked storeroom or cabinet marked
tilizer needs before using the suggestions presented through- “Pesticides—Keep Out!”
out this book. Success is directly related to correct analysis of • Dispose of empty containers so that they are no longer a
your soils. hazard to people, especially children, and animals.
This guide is not a substitute for the product label. Please • Do not contaminate streams, ponds, and water sources
consult a current product label for detailed usage information. or endanger wildlife.
The Penn State Agronomy Guide was prepared by • If poisoning symptoms develop from pesticides, medi-
extension and resident staff members in the Departments cines, or any other poison source, show your physician a
of Agricultural and Biological Engineering; Agricultural label of the material involved. He or she can phone one
Economics, Sociology, and Education; Ecosystem Science of the Poison Control Centers for complete treatment
and Management; Entomology; Plant Pathology and Envi- information.
ronmental Microbiology; and Plant Science; representatives • Before using any pesticide, read the directions.
of the U.S. Pasture Laboratory; county agricultural extension • The National Poison Center Hotline number is
educators; representatives of the fertilizer, lime, pesticide, and 1-800-222-1222.
seed industries; and representatives of state agricultural and
environmental government agencies.
Project Coordinators
Part I: Crop and Soil Management
John Tooker
Part II: Pest Management

Dwight Lingenfelter
John Tooker
Cover image courtesy of Sjoerd Duiker.

Contents
I Crop and Soil Management
1. Soil Management............................................................ 1
2. Soil Fertility Management............................................. 22
3. Storing Seed and Grain................................................ 62
4. Corn.............................................................................. 69
5. Grain Sorghum............................................................. 85
6. Soybean........................................................................ 88
7. Small Grains................................................................. 95
8. Forages....................................................................... 102
9. Nontraditional Soil Amendments................................ 131
10. Cover Crops............................................................. 136
11. Organic Crop Production.......................................... 155
12. Farm Management: Enterprise Budgets.................. 164
II Pest Management
1. Pest Management...................................................... 179
2. Corn Pest Management............................................. 238
3. Sorghum Pest Management....................................... 345
4. Soybean Pest Management....................................... 374
5. Small Grain Pest Management................................... 455
6. Forage Pest Management.......................................... 486
Appendix
Weights, Measures, and Conversion Factors................. 547
Key for Identifying Common Grassy
Weed Seedlings in Pennsylvania.................................... 549
Key for Identifying Common Broadleaved
Weed Seedlings in Pennsylvania.................................... 550
Plant Parts and Leaf Shapes and Arrangements........... 551
Part I
Contents
Part I, Section 1
The Climate of Pennsylvania�� 2
The Soils of Pennsylvania�� 3
1. Eastern Lake Shore�� 4
2. Glaciated Region of the Appalachian Plateau�� 4
Soil Management
3. Allegheny High Plateau�� 4
4. Glaciated Low Plateau�� 4
5. Pittsburgh Plateau�� 4
6. Allegheny Mountain�� 4
7. Ridge and Valley Province �� 5
S. W. Duiker
8. Blue Ridge�� 5
Professor of Soil Management and Applied Soil Physics, Penn State
9. Triassic Lowlands�� 5
10. Conestoga Valley�� 5
11. Piedmont Upland�� 5
12. Coastal Plain�� 5
Soil Health�� 5
Improving Soil Health�� 11
Soil Erosion�� 12
Water Erosion�� 13
Tillage Erosion�� 15
Soil Compaction�� 16
Tillage Management�� 18
Tillage Tools�� 18
Tillage Classification�� 19
Status of Soil Tillage in Pennsylvania�� 20
Agricultural Drainage�� 20
Tables
Table 1.1-1. Selected properties and typical capabilities of major
Pennsylvania soils.��6
Table 1.1-2. Ideal soil bulk densities and root-growth-limiting bulk
densities for soils of different textures.��11
Table 1.1-3. Typical crop residue production of different crops in
rotation.��12
Table 1.1-4. Land use statistics.��20
Figures
Figure 1.1-1. Average annual precipitation in Pennsylvania,
1981–2010.��2
Figure 1.1-2. Mean departure of 28°F during spring in
Pennsylvania.��2
Figure 1.1-3. Mean onset of 28°F during fall in Pennsylvania.��2
Figure 1.1-4. Average moisture balance for Meadville, Lewisburg,
and Lancaster.��3
Figure 1.1-5. Soil regions of Pennsylvania.��4
Figure 1.1-6. The textural triangle quickly helps to determine the
textural classification of a soil from the percentages of sand,
silt, and clay it contains.��10
Figure 1.1-7. No-till soil profile changes compared to changes
in a tilled soil profile.��13
Figure 1.1-8. Three causes of erosion resulting from tilling soils
on slopes.��15
Figure 1.1-9. Topsoil compaction is caused by contact pressure,
whereas lower subsoil compaction is caused by axle load.��16
Figure 1.1-1. Average annual precipitation in Pennsylvania, 1981–
The Climate of Pennsylvania 2010.
Pennsylvania’s climate is highly affected by movements of

cold air masses descending from the north and subtropical
air masses moving up from the south. Each spring the battle
is on, with frigid air causing temperatures to descend below
freezing alternating with periods when the mercury may
rise above 80°F. Without large mountain ranges or water
bodies surrounding the state, these air movements have fair
play in the Commonwealth. Hurricanes that develop east of
the Caribbean, sweep across the Gulf of Mexico, and subse-
quently move northeast are another large-scale process that
influences our climate. These air movements usually occur in
the summer or early fall, pick up moisture above the oceans,
and can dump large quantities of rain on parts of the state.
While the movements of cold and warm air fronts
determine temperature and precipitation from fall to spring, a
different process governs normal precipitation patterns in the
summer when convectional storms are common. Solar radi-
ation warms the surface of the earth, causing air to rise. The Figure 1.1-2. Mean departure of 28°F during spring in Pennsylvania.
relative humidity of the air increases as it cools, until mois-

ture condenses and precipitation starts. This causes pockets
of intense precipitation accompanied by thunderstorms in
the summer. These events are highly localized, causing great
variation in precipitation from one site to the next.
The influence of the Great Lakes is also worth men-
tioning. Distinct zones are highly affected by air movements
coming across Lake Erie. These air currents pick up moisture
over the lake, causing bands of high snowfall in the winter.
The lake also moderates the temperature near its shore.
Temperature is also affected by elevation, which varies
from 10 to 3,123 feet in Pennsylvania (the highest point is
Mount Davis in Somerset County). Mountain ranges such as
the Alleghenies cause orographic effects, with higher precip-
itation on the windward side and lower precipitation on the
leeward side (e.g., in Bedford, Franklin, Huntingdon Coun-
ties). Overall, average precipitation in Pennsylvania varies
from 32 to 49 inches per year (Figure 1.1-1). Average annual Figure 1.1-3. Mean onset of 28°F during fall in Pennsylvania.
temperatures vary from 43 to 56°F, with higher temperatures
in the southeast and coldest temperatures in the northcentral
parts of the state and at high altitudes. The frost-free period
varies considerably, causing large variations in length of grow-
ing seasons. The latest hard frost in spring ranges from the
end of March around Philadelphia and in pockets in Luzerne
County to the beginning of June in sections of the Allegheny
Plateau (Figure 1.1-2). The first hard frost begins typically
around November in the southeast but around September
1 at high elevations and northern parts of the state (Figure
1.1-3). The mean frost-free period is only 100 days at high
elevations in the Allegheny Mountains and almost 200 days
on the Allegheny Plateau in the southeast. The mean annual
growing degree days (base 50°F) accumulated varies from
approximately 1,800 to 3,600. The consequences for the types
2 | The Agronomy Guide 2021–2022

of crops grown in the different parts of the state are profound Figure 1.1-4. Average moisture balance for Meadville, Lewisburg,
and Lancaster.
and cropping systems vary considerably.
Moisture stress is one of the major causes of yield
variation in Pennsylvania. The differences in temperature and
precipitation affect the water balance, which can be repre-
sented as P = E + T + R + D, where P = precipitation (snow
and rain), E = evaporation (moisture lost from soil and plant
surfaces), T = transpiration (moisture lost through leaves after
uptake through roots), R = runoff, and D = deep drainage
below the root zone. Simulation models can help us estimate
the moisture balance over the year. Let us ignore runoff and
deep drainage for the moment and review how evaporation
+ transpiration (ET) and precipitation patterns vary in three
contrasting locations in Pennsylvania (Figure 1.1-4). We will
use the 1961–1990 climate data and employ the Newhall
Simulation Model to calculate ET. Precipitation in Meadville,
northwestern Pennsylvania, averages 44 inches, and annual
potential ET is 24 inches, resulting in an annual moisture
surplus of 21 inches. Moisture surplus is almost year-round,
with a deficit of 0.3 inch in June/July. The last frost in this area
is mid-May, while the first hard frost in the fall occurs early
October. The growing season for summer crops is therefore
approximately 4.5 months. Precipitation in Lewistown (cen-
tral Pennsylvania) is 38 inches and potential ET is 27 inches,
with an annual moisture surplus of 11 inches. Moisture deficit
from June to August is 3.7 inches. The last frost is in mid-
April, and the first hard frost normally hits Lewistown in
mid-October, giving it a growing season of about 6 months.
In Lancaster (southeast Pennsylvania), precipitation averages
41 inches and ET 27 inches, resulting in a moisture surplus of
14 inches. Moisture deficit from June to August is 3.8 inches.
The last frost date in Lancaster is in mid-April and the first
hard frost is in late October, giving it a growing season of
almost 6.5 months. Moisture deficits will clearly be a greater
threat to crop production in the southeast than in the north-
west, whereas the opposite can be expected of moisture sur-
plus in the spring. How great the moisture challenges are in a
particular location largely depends on the soil type; includes
factors such as moisture storage capacity, depth to impervious
layer, depth to water table, and percolation; and is moderated
by management practices.
The Soils of Pennsylvania

Twelve broad soil regions can be distinguished in Pennsyl-
vania (Figure 1.1-5). They are described in the following
sections. The primary determinant that explains differences PRCP = monthly precipitation; PET = monthly potential evapotranspiration
between soils in Pennsylvania is the parent material from
Source: W. J. Waltman, E. J. Ciolkosz, M. J. Mausbach, M. D. Svoboda, D. A.
which the soils developed; the effects of past glaciation are Miller, and P. J. Kolb. Soil Climate Regimes of Pennsylvania (University Park:
also important. Sedimentary rock is the origin of most soils Penn State Agricultural Experiment Station, 1997).
in Pennsylvania, with some exceptions. Sandstone, shale,
and limestone are the primary parent materials from which
soils developed in the Commonwealth. The impact of past
Soil Management | 3
Figure 1.1-5. Soil regions of Pennsylvania. 3. Allegheny High Plateau
1.EASTERN LAKE SHORE
Soils in the Allegheny High Plateau of northcentral Penn-
2. GLACIATED
4. GLACIATED
LOW PLATEAU
sylvania developed primarily in sandstone. The dominant
APPALACHIAN
PLATEAU
3. ALLEGHENY HIGH PLATEAU texture of these soils is sandy loam. They are mostly well
drained. If slopes are steep, erosion potential is substantial.
Rock fragment content can be high. The available water-hold-
5. PITTSBURGH
ing capacity of the root zone of these soils is often low due to
PLATEAU
7. RIDGE AND VALLEY
their coarse texture and the presence of rock fragments. The
growing season in this region is short (fewer than 100 days)
PROVINCE
9. TRIASSIC
LOWLANDS
because of the high elevation. Due to their low agricultural
10. CONESTOGA
6. ALLEGHENY 8. BLUE
VALLEY 12. COASTAL
PLAIN
productivity, most soils of the Allegheny Plateau are under
11. PIEDMONT
MOUNTAIN RIDGE UPLAND forest vegetation, but there are some notable exceptions, such
as areas used for potato and pasture production.
4. Glaciated Low Plateau

glaciers on soils is observed in northeastern and northwestern
The soils in northeastern Pennsylvania are derived from gla-
Pennsylvania.
cial till like those in the northwestern part of the state. How-
ever, the till in the northeast is typically more discontinuous.
1. Eastern Lake Shore Some of these soils have a fragipan at shallow depths and are
The soils on the shores of Lake Erie developed in beach sand therefore somewhat poorly to poorly drained. The surface tex-
and lacustrine silts and clays. The soils developed in the beach ture of these soils is predominantly silt loam. The landscape
sands are mostly sandy and gravelly and have rapid internal is undulating and the erosion potential is low to moderate.
drainage, although some have a shallow water table where Rock fragments are common in the soils of this area. Some
the silts and clays underlie the beach deposits. The landscape of the soils have very low available water-holding capacity in
is mostly level, and erosion potential is therefore low. The the root zone due to their limited rooting depth. The growing
lacustrine soils generally contain few rock fragments and have season is short due to the elevation and northern latitude.
moderate available water-holding capacity in the root zone.
The climate is moderated by the proximity of Lake Erie. 5. Pittsburgh Plateau
The Pittsburgh Plateau in central and southwest Pennsylva-
2. Glaciated Region of the Appalachian Plateau nia is dominated by soils developed in acid clay shales and
The soils in northwest Pennsylvania are derived from glacial interbedded shales and sandstones. These soils contain more
till. Glacial till is a dense material that was once under huge clay and silt than those derived from sandstone. The surface
masses of ice (glaciers). Water percolates very slowly through texture of these soils is predominantly silt loam. The soils
the till. Many soils in this region also have a fragipan—a are usually well drained. The landscape of this region has
dense subsoil that cannot be penetrated by roots and allows rather steep slopes, and erosion is a major concern. Many of
very slow water and air movement. The poor drainage of these soils also contain substantial amounts of rock frag-
many soils in this region is characterized by gleying (gray ments. Many soils in this region have a moderate available
color of reduced iron) and mottling (spots of gray color) water-holding capacity in the root zone due to their limited
caused by a perched seasonal high water table and impeded depth. However, in the southwest region of this area, soils
percolation. tend to be deeper and have a moderately available high
The landscape is mostly level or undulating, and erosion water-holding capacity in the root zone. The growing season
potential is low to moderate. Rock fragments can be present is rather short in most of the area, except in the southwest,
if the till is near the soil surface. The available water-holding which is also the most productive agricultural area within this
capacity of the root zone of these soils is primarily deter- region.
mined by the depth to the impermeable layer. If the soil is
shallow, crop roots will have a small volume of soil to explore 6. Allegheny Mountain
for water. The result is that crops may suffer from drought
The Allegheny Mountain section is dominated by soils devel-
stress in the summer on soils that are saturated in the spring.
oped in sandstone. The texture is mostly sandy loam to loamy
Although the growing season is short, the soils in this area
sand. Drainage is good. The landscape is often steeply sloping,
can be highly productive if properly drained.
and erosion potential is high. Rock fragments are common,
resulting in low available water-holding capacity in the root
zone. The high elevation of the Allegheny Mountain section

gives this region a short growing season (fewer than 100 in the valleys of the Ridge and Valley province. They have a
days). Much of this area is under forest vegetation, although silt loam surface texture and clayey subsoils. They are well
there are some important agricultural areas. drained. The landscape is level to undulating, and erosion
potential is low. Rock fragments are scarce, and the available
7. Ridge and Valley Province water-holding capacity in the root zone is high. The growing
The ridges and valleys in the central/eastern part of Penn- season is long. These are productive soils that are used inten-
sylvania are a distinct landscape characterized by sandstone sively for agriculture.
ridges, shale footslopes, and shale and limestone valleys.
Sandy loam soils similar to those on the Allegheny High 11. Piedmont Upland
Plateau and Allegheny Mountain sections are found on Soils in the Piedmont Upland section are predominantly
the forested ridgetops. Colluvial soils that are a mixture of derived from metamorphic rock. These soils have a silt loam
sandstone and shale are found on the slopes. In the valleys, texture and are well drained. The landscape has rather steep
limestone-derived soils predominate, although some soils are slopes, and erosion potential is moderately high. Rock frag-
derived from shale. The limestone-derived soils are among the ments are scarce on these soils. Their available water-holding
most productive in Pennsylvania. They are usually deep, well capacity in the root zone is moderate to high. The growing
drained, and have a high available water-holding capacity in season is long. These soils are used intensively for agriculture
the root zone and few rock fragments. The shale-derived soils and can be very productive if they are deep.
are less productive because of their acidic nature, steep slopes,
and generally low available water-holding capacity in the root 12. Coastal Plain
zone. The soils in the valleys are on level or undulating land, The soils of the Coastal Plains section developed in coastal
and erosion potential is low to moderate. The valley soils are sands. These soils usually have a sandy surface texture and are
used intensively for agriculture. well drained. Because the topography is level, erosion poten-
tial is typically low. The soils contain few rock fragments but
8. Blue Ridge have moderate available water-holding capacity in the root
The Blue Ridge province covers eastern Franklin, southern zone due to the coarse soil texture. This region has the longest
Cumberland, and western Adams Counties. The soils in this and warmest growing season in Pennsylvania. Most of the
area are derived primarily from igneous and metamorphic area is occupied by the city of Philadelphia and its suburbs.
rocks. Igneous rocks are of volcanic origin. Metamorphic
rocks have been altered under great pressure below the Table 1.1-1 lists major soils of Pennsylvania, along with some
surface of the earth. The soils in these areas are generally well of their properties and expected yield potentials.
drained. Their surface texture is silt loam. They often con-
Soil Health
tain significant amounts of rock fragments. Steep slopes are
common, giving many soils in this area high erosion poten-
tial. The available water-holding capacity in the root zone of Soil health (also called “soil quality”) is defined as “the
the soils is commonly moderate. The high elevation results in capacity of a soil to function within ecosystem boundaries
a short growing season. Much of this area is under forest. to sustain biological productivity, maintain environmental
health, and promote plant and animal health.” Soil properties
9. Triassic Lowlands that determine soil health include soil physical, chemical, and
The soils in the Triassic Lowland section of the Piedmont biological properties. This section focuses on the physical and
developed in reddish sandstone, shale, and siltstone. The soils biological aspects of soil health; chemical aspects are dis-
are generally silt loams, well drained, and located on sloping cussed in the soil fertility section (Part I, Section 2). Some soil
land. The erosion potential of these soils is moderate to high. properties are a given and cannot be readily changed by man-
The Abbottstown-Doylestown-Reading association in Bucks agement. This information can be gleaned from the county
and Montgomery Counties is an exception to this rule; those soil survey, your local USDA Natural Resources Conservation
soils are poorly drained and located on level land. The soils in Service (NRCS) office, or on the web at https://websoilsurvey
the Triassic Lowland section can contain substantial amounts .nrcs.usda.gov/app/WebSoilSurvey.aspx.
of rock fragments. The available water-holding capacity in the The concept of soil health focuses on properties that
root zone is moderate. The region has a long growing season. are readily affected by management. The best soil quality is
usually found in soils under permanent vegetation such as
10. Conestoga Valley trees or sod. However, intensively managed soils can be very
low or very high in quality depending on how they are man-
Limestone-derived soils predominate in the Conestoga Valley
aged. Soils with poor health often have inferior tilth, lower
section. These soils are comparable to the limestone soils
Soil Management | 5
Table 1.1-1. Selected properties and typical capabilities of major Pennsylvania soils.
Sorghum/
Crop Corn Corn Sudan
Depth Drain Leaching Prod. Grain Silage Alfalfa Clover Wheat Oats Barley Silage Soybeans
Soil Series Class1 Class2 Potential3 Group (bu/A) (tons/A) (tons/A) (tons/A) (bu/A) (bu/A) (bu/A) (tons/A) (bu/A)
Abbottstown D4 SWPD 17 4 130 15 58 3.5 508 80 508 3 40
Albrights D4 MWD 17 3 160 21 5 4.5 60 80 75 4 40
Allegheny D WD 2 1 200 30 7 5.5 70 100 100 5 60
Allenwood D WD 2 1 200 30 7 5.5 70 100 100 5 60
Alton D WD6 3 3 160 21 5 4.5 60 80 75 4 40
Alvira D4 SWPD 17 4 130 15 58 3.5 508 80 508 3 40
Andover D 4
PD 1 7
4 130 15 58
3.5 50 8
80 50 8
3 40
Armagh D PD 1 7
4 130 15 58
3.5 50 8
80 50 8
3 40
Atkins D PD 17 4 130 15 58 3.5 508 80 508 3 40
Barbour D WD 27 1 200 30 7 5.5 70 100 100 5 60
Basher D MWD 2 7
2 160 21 6 5 70 100 100 4 50
Bath D 4
WD 1 7
2 160 21 6 5 70 100 100 4 50
Bedington D WD 2 1 200 30 7 5.5 70 100 100 5 60
Berks MD WD 2 3 160 21 5 4.5 60 80 75 4 40
Birdsall D PD 1 7
5 130 15 58
3.5 50 8
80 50 8
3 40
Birdsboro D MWD 2 7
1 200 30 7 5.5 70 100 100 5 60
Blairton MD MWD 17 4 130 15 5 3.5 508 80 508 3 40
Bowmansville D SWPD 27 4 130 15 58 3.5 508 80 508 3 40
Braceville D 4
MWD 1 7
3 160 21 5 4.5 60 80 75 4 40
Brecknock D WD 2 2 160 21 6 5 70 100 100 4 50
Brinkerton D PD 2 4 130 15 58 3.5 508 80 508 3 40
Brooke MD WD 1 2 160 21 6 5 70 100 100 4 50
Buchanan D 4
MWD 1 7
3 160 21 5 4.5 60 80 75 4 40
Bucks D WD 2 1 200 30 7 5.5 70 100 100 5 60
Calvin MD WD 2 3 160 21 5 4.5 60 80 75 4 40
Cambridge D4 MWD 17 3 160 21 5 4.5 60 80 75 4 40
Canfield D 4
MWD 1 7
3 160 21 5 4.5 60 80 75 4 40
Cavode D SWPD 1 7
4 130 15 58
3.5 50 8
80 50 8
3 40
Chenango D WD6 3 2 160 21 6 5 70 100 100 4 50
Chester D WD 2 1 200 30 7 5.5 70 100 100 5 60
Chippewa D 4
PD 1 7
4 130 15 58
3.5 50 8
80 50 8
3 40
Clarksburg D 4
MWD 1 7
3 160 21 5 4.5 60 80 75 4 40
Clymer D WD 2 2 160 21 6 5 70 100 100 4 50
Comly D SWPD 17 3 160 21 58 4.5 60 80 75 4 40
Conestoga D WD 2 1 200 30 7 5.5 70 100 100 5 60
Conotton D WD 2 2 160 21 6 5 70 100 100 4 50

Table 1.1-1. Selected properties and typical capabilities of major Pennsylvania soils (continued).
Sorghum/
Crop Corn Corn Sudan
Depth Drain Leaching Prod. Grain Silage Alfalfa Clover Wheat Oats Barley Silage Soybeans
Soil Series Class1 Class2 Potential3 Group (bu/A) (tons/A) (tons/A) (tons/A) (bu/A) (bu/A) (bu/A) (tons/A) (bu/A)
Cookport D4 MWD 17 3 160 21 5 4.5 60 80 75 4 40
Croton D4 PD 17 4 130 15 58 3.5 508 80 508 3 40
Culleoka MD WD 2 3 160 21 5 4.5 60 80 75 4 40
DeKalb MD WD 2 3 160 21 5 4.5 60 80 75 4 40
Dormont D MWD 1 7
3 160 21 5 4.5 60 80 75 4 40
Duffield D WD 2 1 200 30 7 5.5 70 100 100 5 60
Duncannon D WD 2 1 200 30 7 5.5 70 100 100 5 60
Edgemont D WD 2 2 160 21 6 5 70 100 100 4 50
Edom D WD 1 2 160 21 6 5 70 100 100 4 50
Elliber D WD6 3 2 160 21 6 5 70 100 100 4 50
Erie D5 SWPD 17 4 130 15 58 3.5 508 80 508 3 40
Ernest D4
MWD 1 7
3 160 21 5 4.5 60 80 75 4 40
Fredon D SWPD 1 7
4 130 15 58
3.5 50 8
80 50 8
3 40
Frenchtown D4 PD 17 4 130 15 58 3.5 508 80 508 3 40
Gilpin MD WD 2 3 160 21 5 4.5 60 80 75 4 40
Glenelg D WD 2 1 200 30 7 5.5 70 100 100 5 60
Glenville D4
MWD 1 7
3 160 21 5 4.5 60 80 75 4 40
Guernsey D MWD 17 3 160 21 5 4.5 60 80 75 4 40
Hagerstown D WD 1 1 200 30 7 5.5 70 100 100 5 60
Hanover D4
WD 1 7
2 160 21 6 5 70 100 100 4 50
Hartleton D WD 2 3 160 21 5 4.5 60 80 75 4 40
Hazleton D WD 2 2 160 21 6 5 70 100 100 4 50
Highfield D WD 2 1 200 30 7 5.5 70 100 100 5 60
Holly D PD 2 7
4 130 15 58
3.5 50 8
80 50 8
3 40
Hublersburg D WD 2 1 200 30 7 5.5 70 100 100 5 60
Huntington D WD 2 1 200 30 7 5.5 70 100 100 5 60
Klinesville S WD 2 4 130 15 58 3.5 508 80 508 3 40
Kreamer D MWD 1 7
3 160 21 5 4.5 60 80 75 4 40
Lackawanna D4
WD 1 7
2 160 21 6 5 70 100 100 4 50
Laidig D4 WD 17 2 160 21 6 5 70 100 100 4 50
Langford D4 WD 17 3 160 21 5 4.5 60 80 75 4 40
Lansdale D WD 2 2 160 21 6 5 70 100 100 4 50
Leck Kill D WD 2 2 160 21 6 5 70 100 100 4 50
Lehigh D MWD 17 4 130 15 5 3.5 508 80 508 3 40
Letort D WD 2 1 200 30 7 5.5 70 100 100 5 60
Lewisberry D WD 2 2 160 21 6 5 70 100 100 4 50
Soil Management | 7
Figure 1.7-2. Growth stages of cereals.
STEM EXTENSION HEADING RIPENING
STAGE
STAGE 11
JOINTING BOOT
10.5
STAGE flowering
STAGE 10.1
10
in
STAGE “boot”
9
ligule of
STAGE last leaf
8
STAGE last leaf
TILLERING 7 just
second visible
STAGE node of
6 stem
first visible
STAGE node of
STAGE 5 stem
4 leaf- visible
STAGE leaf- sheaths
STAGE 3 sheaths strongly
STAGE 2 tillers lengthen erected
1 tillering formed
one begins
shoot
when there is about a 50 percent stand remaining, or seven to spring barley is less tolerant of low pH and poorly drained
nine plants per linear foot of row. soils. Recent varieties such as Benefit, Bailey, Stephen, and
Ontario have performed satisfactorily in Pennsylvania. Refer
Other Small Grains to performance information from Cornell University (https://

blogs.cornell.edu/varietytrials/small-grains-wheat-oats-barley
Malting Barley -triticale/small-grains-cultivar-trial-results/) for information
Malting barley varieties are available as both winter and on these and other varieties. The desired plant population for
spring, having been selected specifically for this purpose. spring barley is 1.2 to 1.5 million per acre (28 to 34 plants per
When growing barley for a malthouse, it is important to iden- square foot). This requires a seeding rate of approximately
tify a variety that is acceptable to the end user. Malting barley 96 pounds per acre. The seeding rate should be based on the
varieties can be used for feed if necessary. Many malting number of seeds per acre rather than pounds per acre. Refer
barley varieties are two-row types rather than the common to Table 1.7-3 when estimating the approximate seeding rate
six-row feed types that we grow in the state. Management is for various drill row spacings. Follow the spring oat recom-
critical to harvest disease-free, viable seed. Consider applying mendations for all other management requirements.
a fungicide to manage head scab and harvest on a timely basis
to avoid any preharvest sprouting. More details can be found Spring Wheat
in the Penn State Extension fact sheet on malting barley at Yields and test weights are often low for spring wheat com-
extension.psu.edu/malting-barley-in-pennsylvania. pared to winter wheats. Spring wheat is usually a hard red
spring type that is not marketable in our conventional soft
Spring Barley red winter wheat markets. It could be used to make a high-
Spring barley is often stressed from heat and drought and protein bread flour if there was a potential market. The variety
is best adapted to Area 1 (see Figure 1.7-1). Yields are often Glenn has shown to be one of the earlier and better yielding
about 60 percent of winter barley when grown under the same spring wheats in our region. Refer to performance infor-
conditions in longer-season areas. Compared to spring oats, mation from Cornell University (https://blogs.cornell.edu
Small Grains | 99
Part II
Contents
Part II, Section 1
Activities Involved in an IPM Program�� 181
Monitoring the Crop for Pest Damage�� 181
Identifying the Cause of Crop Damage�� 185
Pest Management
Determining the Need for Management�� 186
Evaluating, Selecting, and Implementing
Pest Management Alternatives�� 187
Assessing the Success of a Management
Alternative�� 189
Keeping Records�� 189
Weed Management: Weed Management�� 189
J. Wallace Weeds and Their Impacts............................................... 189
Assistant Professor of Weed Science and Extension Weed Specialist, Weed Management Techniques�� 190
Penn State
Herbicides�� 193
D. Lingenfelter
Insect Management�� 221
Weed Science Senior Extension Associate, Penn State
M. VanGessel Disease Management�� 222
Professor of Weed Science and Crop Management, Extension Weed Fungicides and Fungicide Resistance�� 222
Specialist, University of Delaware Pesticides and Their Application�� 223
Q. Johnson Pesticide Formulations�� 223
Extension Associate, Weed and Crop Management, University of Compatibility of Pesticides�� 227
Delaware Spray Nozzle Selection and Use�� 228
K. Vollmer Boom Sprayer Setup and Calibration�� 229
Extension Specialist, Weed Management, University of Maryland Sprayer Calibration�� 230
T. Besancon Sprayer Cleanout�� 232
Assistant Extension Specialist, Weed Science, Rutgers University
Using Pesticides Safely�� 232
M. Flessner
Associate Professor and Extension Weed Science Specialist, Virginia
Tech
Tables
Table 2.1-1. Comparison between activities of an ideal
V. Singh
IPM program and a routine spray program.��181
Assistant Professor and Extension Specialist, Weed Science and
Precision Agric., Virginia Tech Table 2.1-2. Key times for corn insect activity.��183
R. Chandran Table 2.1-3. Key times for alfalfa insect activity.��184
Professor and Extension Weed Specialist, West Virginia University Table 2.1-4. Key times for soybean insect activity.��184
Table 2.1-5. Key insects that attack oats, wheat, barley, and rye.��185
Insect Management: Table 2.1-6. Field characteristics that increase the likelihood
J. F. Tooker of certain pests in corn.��186
Professor of Entomology and Extension Specialist, Penn State Table 2.1-7. Important herbicide groups for corn, soybean,
small grains, commercial vegetables, and forages.��196
Disease Management: Table 2.1-8. Selected glyphosate (Group 9) products and
A. A. Collins premixes for agronomic use.��199
Associate Research Professor and Director of the Southeast Agricultural Table 2.1-9. Common herbicide safeners used as
Research and Extension Center, Penn State commercial products.��202
P. D. Esker Table 2.1-10. Selected generic (or post-patent) alternative
Assistant Professor of Epidemiology and Field Crop Pathology, herbicides for agronomic use.��203
Penn State Table 2.1-11. Herbicide rotation restrictions
(months after application) for cash crops.��210
Table 2.1-12. Weed species prone to resistance and of concern
in the Mid-Atlantic region.��220
Table 2.1-13. Fungicide modes of action.��224
Figures Since the beginning of agriculture, crops have suffered losses
Figure 2.1-1. Percentage of alfalfa fields with above-threshold to various kinds of pests. Although much progress has been
weevil infestation in Maryland, 1983 to 1989, and Pennsylvania, made in managing pests, many persist and crop losses con-
1986 to 1989.��182 tinue to occur. Pests that contribute to crop losses in Pennsyl-
Figure 2.1-2. Percentage of alfalfa fields with above-threshold vania include insects, weeds, diseases, nematodes, slugs, and
weevil infestation across locations in New York in 1988.��182
wildlife.
Figure 2.1-3. Relationship between the economic injury level
and the economic threshold with changing economic and Single pest management techniques are no longer
biological conditions.��187 considered reliable to combat most pests. Many management
Figure 2.1-4. Surfactant.��208 practices have limited periods of effectiveness, while others
Figure 2.1-5. Herbicide group numbers on product labels.��220 can create side effects worse than the crop damage. Success
in managing crop pests depends on how well economically
effective technologies, old and new, can be integrated while
minimizing risk to health and the environment.
With increasing concern about food safety and water
quality, the objectives of pest management are changing. Pest
management decisions now must include environmental and
human health risk considerations. While these factors are
difficult to measure, they are of growing importance in crop
production. Simplistic approaches such as routine applica-
tions of pesticides are no longer acceptable pest management
practices. There are numerous effective pest management
methods that when properly used reduce pest populations to
economically acceptable levels. Using a combination of meth-
ods is the best approach to handling most pest problems.
Integrated pest management (IPM) may be defined as
the use of multiple pest management tactics to efficiently pro-
duce crops, while minimizing the risk of undesirable environ-
mental and health effects.
• IPM is a systematic approach to crop protection that
utilizes increased information to make better pest man-
agement decisions, with an emphasis on integrating all
available alternatives.
• IPM is a philosophy that promotes the collection of
field-specific information to make rational pest man-
agement decisions. The goal is to increase information
through field scouting and monitoring to facilitate
selection of appropriate pest management alternatives,
including the judicious use of pesticides.
• The IPM philosophy does not advocate completely
eliminating pesticides, but rather recommends their
appropriate use as a final defense against pests whose
populations cannot be maintained at acceptable levels
using other pest management tactics.
• An important function of IPM is to help avoid the
development of resistance to pesticides and other
control measures. Historic overreliance on some pesti-
cides favored populations of resistant pest populations,
including insect populations that became resistant to
hydrogen cyanide and DDT. Current overuse of glypho-
sate and other common pesticides carries similar risks;
thus, the multifaceted approach favored by IPM holds
potential to prevent the development of resistance.

Activities Involved in an IPM Table 2.1-1. Comparison between activities of an ideal IPM
program and a routine spray program.
Program IPM
Routine
Spray
Effective IPM programs require more intensive collecting of Activity Program Program
information than routine spray programs. Table 2.1-1 shows
1. Monitor crop for indications of damage Yes No
the differences in activities required for an IPM program
2. Identify cause of crop damage Yes No
versus a routine spray program. Although an IPM program is
more time-consuming to implement, the returns to invest- 3. Determine need for management Yes No
ment can greatly exceed those of a routine spray program, 4. Evaluate management alternatives Yes No
particularly for occasional pests. All pests attacking field and 5. Select appropriate management
Yes No
forage crops in Pennsylvania fall into this category, with the alternatives
exception of weeds. 6. Implement management alternatives Yes Yes
As shown in Table 2.1-1, the sequence of IPM activities
7. Assess success of management
includes: (1) monitoring fields to detect crop damage or the Yes Yes
alternatives
potential for crop damage, (2) identifying the cause(s) of crop
8. Maintain records on pest populations and
damage, (3) determining the need for management, (4) eval- Yes No
effectiveness of management alternatives
uating management alternatives, (5) selecting the most
appropriate management alternative(s), (6) implementing the or selection of resistant cultivars. Disease scouting should be
selected management alternative(s), (7) assessing manage- done frequently during the growing season.
ment strategy performance, and (8) keeping records of pest Because of their natural mobility and reproductive
problems and the field performance of the management strat- potential, insects are among the most difficult pests to
egy. Routine spray programs are less time-consuming because manage. A field badly infested with an insect pest one year
the farm manager uses only one possible management strat- may have very little damage the following year. Conversely,
egy, usually a pesticide, to manage the pest. No attention is a field that has been free of insects for years suddenly may
paid to whether the pesticide is applied in an optimal fashion have severe insect damage. Figures 2.1-1 and 2.1-2 show
or directed at the correct pest species. how alfalfa weevil populations can vary between years and
locations.
Monitoring the Crop for Pest Damage The unpredictable nature of insect damage has led many
Reasons for Monitoring farmers to apply insurance insecticide treatments. Although
The first step in an IPM program is to monitor fields for insurance applications may help you sleep better at night, you
signs of pest damage or potential pest problems. Proper weed may be using resources better employed in other farm enter-
management involves a thorough inspection of each field prises. Routine field monitoring can prevent the unnecessary
after crop harvest to identify major weed species in the field. use of funds to manage pests that are economically insignif-
When an annual crop is to be grown in the field the follow- icant and can help direct management efforts to those fields
ing year, this information is used to assess the importance of that can benefit.
each weed species and to select the appropriate management For insect management, fields should be scouted every
strategy to be used for the coming crop. In annual crops, seven to ten days to adequately monitor changing pest
fields also are monitored after the crop has emerged to assess populations. Longer periods between field monitoring can
the effectiveness of the selected management alternative and mean detecting pest damage only after significant losses have
whether additional management tactics are needed. For estab- occurred. For pests such as true armyworm or black cutworm
lishing perennial crops, such as alfalfa, an assessment of weed in corn, significant damage can occur within two to five days
species composition is conducted after harvest of the previous if fields are not watched closely.
crop (usually in the fall), to determine the appropriate man- In corn, monitoring should begin about a week after
agement alternative to be used during establishment. In an the crop has been planted. For fields prone to slug damage,
established crop, fields are monitored to determine the need monitoring populations in the weeks leading up to planting
for additional tactics to manage perennial and biennial weeds. or even the previous fall can provide insight on the size of
Except for seed treatments and foliar applications in pest populations. Insect pests such as the seedcorn maggot,
small grains, fungicides are inconsistently profitable for seedcorn beetle, wireworm, and white grub can feed on newly
managing diseases in field and forage crops. However, fields planted seed. Table 2.1-2 lists the key corn insect pests and
should be scouted to monitor the presence of crop diseases. the plant growth stages during which they can cause crop
By identifying diseases in a field, the farm manager can damage. Monitoring may be reduced after the pest manage-
implement management tactics such as crop rotation, tillage, ment decision has been made for the corn rootworm, but
Pest Management | 181

Figure 2.1-1. Percentage of alfalfa fields with above-threshold weevil Figure 2.1-2. Percentage of alfalfa fields with above-threshold weevil
infestation in Maryland, 1983 to 1989, and Pennsylvania, 1986 to 1989. infestation across locations in New York in 1988.
PERCENTAGE OF FIELDS PERCENTAGE OF FIELDS

60 100
Maryland
50
80
Pennsylvania
40
60
30
40
20
10 20
0
1983 1984 1985 1986 1987 1988 1989 0
NW NY Finger Otsego Rens. Total
YEAR Lakes
LOCATION
midseason pests such as western bean cutworm and brown
marmorated stink bugs should not be ignored. In situations
where European corn borer is prevalent and non-Bt corn the small number of severe focal pest species, several insect
varieties are used, continue monitoring to assess the degree of pest species, most of which are leaf feeders (mostly caterpillar
stalk lodging and ear droppage. This information is useful in and beetle species), can still cause significant damage in a lim-
assessing the population potential for the next growing season ited number of fields within a season, particularly if a few pest
and in determining if another more resistant variety should species are active at the same time. Table 2.1-4 lists the key
be planted in the future. pests of soybean and the stages of plant development when
In alfalfa, monitoring should begin when the crop they are important. Monitoring should begin about a week
begins to regrow in early spring. Early infestations of alfalfa after planting and continue until late podfill. After growth
weevil can be seen in March if conditions are warm. The stage R6, few insect pests influence yield.
potential for significant damage by this pest, however, does Scouting for insects in small grains should begin after
not occur until late April to mid-May. Monitoring from the plant emergence and continue until harvest. In wheat, corn
beginning of spring growth to late April should involve only leaf and English grain aphids and Hessian fly can attack young
a quick visual inspection for signs of feeding. Table 2.1-3 lists seedlings in the fall and early spring. Armyworm can clip off
the key pests of new seedings and established stands of alfalfa wheat heads as the grain begins to reach maturity. Table 2.1-5
and cuttings where the pests occur. Monitoring can be termi- lists the key insects of small grains in Pennsylvania.
nated when potato leafhopper populations begin to decline
around the middle of August. Importance of Complete Monitoring
Only a few economically important insect pests of Monitoring crops for pests should not be a series of indepen-
soybean exist in Pennsylvania—namely, slugs, soybean aphid, dent processes, but part of an overall integrated monitoring
and in some areas, brown marmorated stink bug. Soybeans plan. For instance, scouts do not walk into an alfalfa field and
are particularly sensitive to slug feeding because, unlike corn, look only for insect pests. Instead, they are observing insect
the growing tip is above the ground and vulnerable to feeding; numbers, diseases, weeds, the general health of the crop, and
if the growing tip is eaten by slugs, the plant will die. Despite the stage of crop growth, while assessing potential problems.

Table 2.1-2. Key times for corn insect activity. Table 2.1-2. Key times for corn insect activity (continued).
Attacks the Seed Attacks Fifth Leaf (V5) to Silking (R1)
Seedcorn maggot Black cutworm
Seedcorn beetle Corn rootworm
Slugs European corn borer
Wireworm Fall armyworm
White grub Sod webworm
Stalk borer
Attacks Seedlings—Germination to Four-Leaf Stage (V4)
True armyworm
Billbugs
Western bean cutworm
Black cutworm
White grub
Corn root aphid
Wireworm
Flea beetles
Garden symphylan Attacks from Silking (R1) to Beginning of Grain Fill (R2)
Grape colaspis Brown marmorated stink bug
Seed corn beetle Corn leaf aphid
Seed corn maggot European corn borer
Slugs Japanese beetle
Sod webworm Northern corn rootworm
Stalk borer Western bean cutworm
True armyworm Western corn rootworm
White grub Attacks from Grain Fill to Maturity
Wireworm Brown marmorated stink bug
European corn borer
Grasshoppers
This information provides a baseline for future evaluations of

crop health and helps measure the economic significance of of the crop, it is important to know what growth stages are
specific pests in the field. By routinely monitoring a field, the susceptible to which pests.
farm manager can note subtle changes in the crop and take By knowing the pest history of the field and what prob-
corrective action before major problems occur. lems exist in it during a growing season, farm managers can
The occurrence of multiple pests in a field can influence develop a crop production strategy to reduce pest damage.
the potential damage from pests. For instance, a field with a This strategy should be integrated along with other manage-
heavy weed infestation will experience greater yield losses if ment decisions such as fertility management, tillage method,
an insect or disease problem also is present. In fact, weedy and conservation management.
fields often attract insects because of the high humidity.
Certain weeds also are attractive to insects. Because common Monitoring Methods
chickweed is a preferred host of the black cutworm, fields Many pest problems can be identified simply by observing
with heavy chickweed infestations have a significantly higher them in the field. Weeds and diseases typically fall into this
probability of developing a black cutworm problem. There- category, as do some insect and mammalian pests. Others,
fore, fields with heavy chickweed infestations should be mon- however, require specialized equipment to estimate their
itored closely for black cutworm infestations. Producers can numbers. For example, monitoring populations of corn soil
reduce the potential for this pest by eliminating chickweed insects such as the wireworm, white grub, seedcorn maggot,
from fields at least ten days before planting. seedcorn beetle, black cutworm, and rootworm larvae
Besides the interaction of multiple pests, plant growth requires the use of a shovel or trowel in addition to a visual
stage also can influence pest damage. Because some diseases damage inspection. These insects all feed below ground level
and insect problems occur only during specific growth stages and must be located by digging.
Pest Management | 183

Table 2.1-3. Key times for alfalfa insect activity. Table 2.1-4. Key times for soybean insect activity.
Attacks New Seedlings Attacks the Seed
Emergence to First Cutting Seedcorn maggot
Black cutworm
Garden symphylan Attacks from Emergence (VE) to Second Node (V2)
Potato leafhopper Bean leaf beetle
Slugs Green cloverworm
Variegated cutworm Painted lady
Potato leafhopper
Second Cutting Slugs
Grasshoppers Soybean aphid
Pea aphid Thrips
Plant bug spp. White grub
Potato leafhopper Wireworm
Spotted alfalfa aphid
Attacks from Second Node (V2) to Maturity (R8)

Attacks Established Stands and Fall Seedings Bean leaf beetle
First Cutting Brown marmorated stink bug
Alfalfa weevil Cabbage and soybean loopers
Grasshoppers
Second Through Fourth Cuttings Green cloverworm
Alfalfa blotch leafminer Japanese beetle
Clover leaf weevil Mexican bean beetle
Clover root curculio Potato leafhopper
Grasshoppers Silver-spotted skipper caterpillar
Pea aphid Soybean aphid
Plant bug spp. Two-spotted spider mite
Potato leafhopper
Spittlebug Attacks the Pods from Full Seed (R6) to Beginning Maturity (R7)
Variegated cutworm Bean leaf beetle
Brown marmorated stink bug
One method for monitoring wireworm populations Grasshopper

involves burying corn or other grain in a mesh material.
Because carbon dioxide is given off by the seed as it begins
to sprout, larvae of the wireworm are attracted to the grain have a strong potential of receiving economically significant
and can be found feeding in the corn contained in the mesh damage. This effort can reveal which fields have the highest
material. This is an effective method of monitoring old sod populations or even when slugs hatch from eggs in spring. In
fields before planting a corn crop. Economic threshold values response, growers may be able to plant these particular fields
have been established for this method. earlier or later to avoid peak slug activity.
Shelter traps, such as 1-by-1-foot pieces of white rolled Pheromone traps can be used to monitor the popula-
roofing or plywood, can be effective monitoring tools for tion of black cutworm adults that migrate into Pennsylvania
tracking populations of slugs. Prior to planting or even in during early spring. A pheromone trap contains the scent of
the previous autumn, scatter ten or so of these traps across the female moth, and this attracts the male. By calculating and
fields suspected of slug problems. Remove residue and place summing 300 degree days from the time eight moths are col-
the traps right against the soil and return to them weekly. lected, the period when larva feeding occurs can be calculated.
Fields where four or so slugs per trap per week are found This is useful in determining when to begin scouting fields.

Table 2.2-21. Suggested insecticides, rates, and restrictions for corn insects (continued).
Suggested insecticides, rates, and restrictions for CORN LEAF AND OAT BIRD CHERRY APHIDS; continued.
Rate per Acre Restrictions Comments

Harvest Reentry (Read the label for dosage, method, and
Insecticide Formulated Active (days) (hours) limitations)
Lambda-cyhalothrin + 6 to 9 oz 21 24 Do not exceed 31 oz of Besiege or 0.12 lb ai
chlorantraniliprole of lambda-cyhalothrin-containing products per
(Besiege) acre per year.
Methomyl R 0.23 to 0.45 lb 21 48 Do not apply more than 2.25 lb ai per crop
(Lannate LV) 0.75 to 1.5 pt per season. Apply when insects first appear
in significant numbers. Highly toxic to hu-
(Lannate 90SP) 0.25 to 0.5 lb mans. Lower rates help conserve beneficial
arthropods.
Phorate R 5 lb 1 lb 30 48 Broadcast into whorls. See label for details.
(Phorate 20G)
Sulfoxaflor 0.75 to 1.5 oz 0.023 to 0.047 lb 14 (grain); 7 24 No more than two applications and 3.0 oz
(Transform WG) (silage) (0.09 lb) per year. Highly toxic to bees.
Zeta-cypermethrin R 2.72 to 4 oz 0.017 to 0.025 lb 30 (grain); 12 Do not apply more than 0.1 lb ai per acre
(Mustang Max) 60 (silage) per season, including at-plant plus foliar
applications.
Zeta-cypermethrin + 4 to 10.3 oz 0.04 to 0.1 lb 30 (grain); 12 Do not make applications fewer than 30 days
bifenthrin R 60 (forage) apart. Do not apply more than 0.4 lb ai per
(Hero) season. Only for use as a foliar application.
Suggested insecticides, rates, and restrictions for CORN ROOTWORM (BEETLES, not larvae).
Threshold: control usually not needed; treatments not suggested unless there is an average of five beetles per ear and corn is less than 50% brown
silk.
Alpha-cypermethrin 2.7 to 3.8 fl oz 0.017 to 0.025 lb 30 (grain); Do not apply more than 11.4 fl oz of product
(Fastac) 60 (forage) (0.075 lb ai) per acre per season.
Bifenthrin R 2.1 to 6.4 oz 0.033 to 0.1 lb 30 12 Direct spray over tassel and into ear zone.
(Bifenture) Do not apply more than 0.3 lb ai per acre per
season.
(Brigade 2EC)
(Discipline 2EC)
Carbaryl 1 to 2 qt 48 24
Cyfluthrin R 1.6 to 2.8 oz 0.013 to 0.022 lb 21 12 Maximum of four applications per acre per
(Baythroid XL) season and 11.2 oz per acre.
Deltamethrin R 1.5 to 1.9 oz 0.018 to 0.022 lb 21 12 Apply as necessary to maintain control. Do

not make more than five applications or apply
(Delta Gold)
more than 8.1 oz in a growing season.
Dimethoate Many formulations available; see label for rates and restrictions See label for rates and restrictions. Do not
make more than three applications per year.
Do not apply to corn during the pollen shed-
ding period.
Esfenvalerate R 5.8 to 9.6 oz 0.03 to 0.05 lb 21 12 Control should be instigated only if an eco-
(Asana XL) nomic level of rootworm beetles is observed.
Once the silks turn brown, control is no longer
necessary. Apply at first sign of silk feeding.
Do not apply more than 0.25 lb ai per acre per
season.
Corn Pest Management | 311

Suggested insecticides, rates, and restrictions for CORN ROOTWORM (BEETLES, not larvae); continued.

Gamma-cyhalothrin R 2.56 to 3.84 oz 0.01 to 0.015 lb 21 24 Apply as necessary to maintain control.
(Proaxis)
Lambda-cyhalothrin R 2.56 to 3.84 oz 0.02 to 0.03 lb 21 24 For corn rootworm control as part of an aerial
(Lambda Cy) applied control program, use a minimum of
3.8 oz per acre (0.03 lb ai per acre). See label
(Taiga Z) for details and restrictions. Warrior II uses half
(Warrior and Warrior II) the rate of Warrior.
Lambda-cyhalothrin + 6 to 9 oz 21 24 Do not exceed 31 oz of Besiege or 0.12 lb ai
chlorantraniliprole of lambda-cyhalothrin-containing products per
(Besiege) acre per year.
Methomyl R 0.23 to 0.45 lb 21 48 No more than 2.25 lb ai per crop per season.
(Lannate 90SP) 0.25 to 0.5 lb Apply when insects first appear in significant
numbers. Highly toxic to humans. Lower rates
(Lannate LV) 0.75 to 1.5 pt help conserve beneficial arthropods.
Permethrin R Many formulations available; see label for rates and restrictions See label for further limitations.
(Ambush 25W)
(Arctic 3.2EC)
(Perm-up)
(Pounce 25WP)
Zeta-cypermethrin R 2.72 to 4 oz 0.017 to 0.025 lb 30 (grain); 12 Do not apply more than 0.1 lb ai per acre
(Mustang Max) 60 (silage) per season, including at-plant plus foliar
applications.
Zeta-cypermethrin + 4 to 10.3 oz 0.04 to 0.1 lb 30 (grain); 12 Do not make applications fewer than 30 days
bifenthrin R 60 (forage) apart. Do not apply more than 0.4 lb ai per
(Hero) season. Only for use as a foliar application.
Suggested insecticides, rates, and restrictions for CORN ROOTWORM (LARVA).

Threshold: number of beetles per plant in August: first year, one western corn rootworm and two northern corn rootworm; two or more years of
corn, 1.5 western corn rootworm and three northern corn rootworm.
Bifenthrin R 0.3 oz per 0.0046 lb per 1,000 30 12 Apply as a 5- to 7-inch T-band over an open
(Bifenture) 1,000 feet of feet of row seed furrow. Apply a minimum of 3 gal per
row acre by ground. Straw may not be used for
(Brigade 2EC) food or feed.
(Discipline 2EC)
(Capture 1.15G) 6.4 to 8 oz per 0.005 to 0.006 lb 30 24 Apply as a 5- to 7-inch T-band treatment. Use
(Empower 2EC) 1,000 feet of per row foot high rate for heavy insect pressure. Do not
row apply more than 0.1 lb ai per acre per season,
including at-plant plus foliar applications.
Highly toxic to bees.
Chlorethoxyfos R 3 to 4.5 oz per 0.12 to 0.18 lb per 30 48 Recommended as a T-band application.
1,000 feet of 1,000 feet of row
(SmartChoice HC, Index)
row
Ethoprop R 8 oz per 1,000 7 lb See label 48 Apply at planting.
(Mocap 15G) feet of row
Gamma-cyhalothrin R 0.66 oz per 0.0025 lb per 1,000 21 24 Apply as a band.

(Proaxis) 1,000 feet of feet of row
row

Suggested insecticides, rates, and restrictions for CORN ROOTWORM (LARVA); continued.

Lambda-cyhalothrin R 11.5 fl oz per 0.005 lb ai per 21 24 Compatible with liquid fertilizer. In-furrow and
(Ballista) acre (0.66 fl oz 1,000 feet of row T-band applications possible; see label for
per 1,000 feet details.
of row)
(Taiga Z) 0.66 oz per 0.005 lb per 1,000 21 24 Apply as a band. See label for details and
1,000 feet of feet of row restrictions. Warrior II uses half the rate of
(Warrior and Warrior II)
row Warrior.
Phorate R 6 oz per 1,000 1 lb 30 48 Do not apply more than 6.5 lb of Phorate 20G
(Phorate 20G) feet of row per acre. Do not use in-furrow application.
Apply in a 7-inch band over the row directly
behind the planter shoe in front of or behind
the press wheel and lightly incorporate. See
label for details.
Tebupirimphos + cyflu- 3 to 6.7 oz per 0.12 lb 30 48 Apply as a T-band or in-furrow. Incorporate
thrin R 1,000 feet of into the soil surface. Do not apply more than
(Aztec 4.67G) row 7.3 lb of material per acre per season.
(Defcon 2.1G)
Tefluthrin R 1.25 to 1.5 oz 0.125 to 0.15 lb Not appli- 48 At-planting applications can be placed in a
(Force 10G) per 1,000 feet cable 7-inch band over the row in front or behind
of row the press wheel, or in-furrow. When applied
at cultivation, place at the base of plants on
both sides of the plant (split boot). Cover the
treated band with 2 to 3 inches of soil.
(Force 6.5G) 1.8 to 2.3 oz 0.1 to 0.12 lb Application may be by in-furrow, band, or
per 1,000 feet T-band; see label for details.
of row
Terbufos R 4.5 to 6 oz per 0.75 to 1 lb Not appli- 48 Do not exceed 6.5 lb per acre. Counter is one
(Counter 20G) 1,000 feet of cable of the few compounds that can help reduce
row some nematode populations.
Seed Treatments
Clothianidin 1.25 mg per Not for hopperbox treatment. Research sug-
(Poncho) kernel gests only effective against low to moderate
rootworm populations.
Thiamethoxam 1.25 mg per Not for hopperbox treatment. Research sug-
(Cruiser) kernel gests only effective against low to moderate
rootworm populations.
Corn rootworm larva notes: Liquid formulations have advantages: they are cheaper and may be mixed with some herbicides and liquid fertilizers to reduce applica-
tion cost; however, the relatively high content of active toxicant in liquid formulations makes them more hazardous to handle than granules. Use of an organophosphate
insecticide, such as Counter, Lorsban, or Phorate, with a postemergence sulfonylurea herbicide can cause corn plant injury. Counter shows the greatest tendency for this
because of its systemic properties, but the CR20 formulation has helped reduce this problem. For band application, the rate (ounces per 1,000 feet of row) is constant
and independent of row spacing. Therefore, the pound of formulation per acre rate needed increases as row spacing decreases. Read the label to determine the proper
rate for your row spacing. Research indicates that at-planting insecticide applications may have a reduced level of effectiveness when corn is planted before May 1. Lar-
vae are believed to begin hatching between June 1 and 15 in central Pennsylvania. The total hatching period is 3 to 4 weeks long. Hatch may occur 7 to 10 days earlier
in southern areas of the state and 7 to 10 days later in more northern and higher elevations. Under average conditions most rootworm insecticides remain effective for
approximately 6 to 8 weeks. An alternative to at-planting application is at-cultivation or sidedress between June 1 and 10 (possibly a week earlier in southern areas).
Suggested insecticides, rates, and restrictions for EUROPEAN CORN BORER (FIRST GENERATION).
Threshold: see chart in the Field Crop IPM Reference and Training Manual to calculate economic threshold.
Alpha-cypermethrin 2.7 to 3.8 fl oz 0.017 to 0.025 lb 30 (grain); 12 Do not apply more than 11.4 fl oz of product
(Fastac) 60 (forage) (0.075 lb ai) per acre per season.
Corn Pest Management | 313

Table 2.3-10. Comments on postemergence herbicides for sorghum.
Site of
Common Action Sorghum Application
Trade Name* Name Number Type Timing Product/A lb ai/A
The following herbicides can be added with postemergence herbicides to improve residual weed control. They will not provide control of emerged
weeds, so they should be applied to weed-free soil surface or with products that will provide postemergence control of weeds present at time of
application. Consult labels when tank-mixing with any herbicide. Some pesticides or adjuvants used in combination with the following herbicides
could increase the chance of soybean injury.
Dual Magnum 7.62EC S-metolachlor 15 grain, POST 1–1.67 pt 0.95–1.59
forage
• Application timing is not specified on label.
• Do not make more than one application per year
• Make applications at least 75 days before harvest.
• Water quality advisory.
Prowl 3.3EC pendimethalin 3 grain only 4-inch growth 2.4–3.6 pt 1–1.5
stage up to layby
Prowl H2O 3.8CS 1.5–3 pt
• Do not apply preplant incorporated or preemergence.
• Do not make more than one application per year.
• Do not apply on sorghum planted in double-row beds.
• Do not replant sorghum if crop loss occurs.
• Do not apply in liquid fertilizer.
• Use only where adequate tillage is practiced to provide good seed coverage and plant seeds at least 1 inch deep, or crop injury may occur.
• Prior to application, crop must be cultivated in such a manner as to throw at least 1 inch of soil over the base of the crop plants to prevent direct
contact of Prowl with the zone of brace root formation.
grain,
Warrant 3CS acetochlor 15 before 11 inches 1.5–3 qt 1.125–2.25
forage
• Acetochlor is similar in activity to Dual, but it is more active on certain broadleaf weeds.
• Do not apply POST using sprayable fluid fertilizer, or injury will occur.
The following treatments are applied after sorghum emergence to control established weeds. See specific product label to determine correct rate
for soil type and weed species found in individual fields.
2,4-D amine 4S 2,4-D amine 4 grain only 6 to 15 inches; 1 pt 0.5 ae
over 8 inches,
drops recom-
mended
• Sorghum is not as tolerant to 2,4-D as corn.
• Apply between 6- and 15-inch-tall sorghum; if sorghum is over 8 inches tall, consider drop nozzles to keep spray off the foliage; do not treat
during the boot, flowering, or dough stages.
• Do not apply during periods of rapid growth (high soil moisture, warm temperatures, recent nitrogen application) due to increased risk of crop
injury.
• Make only one application per season to emerged sorghum.
• 2,4-D is volatile; be cautious of off-target movement.
• Surfactants can increase risk of injury; be cautious of surfactant use when tank-mixing with other herbicides.
• 2,4-D does not provide any residual weed control.
Aim 2EC carfentrazone 14 grain only 4 inches to boot 0.5 fl oz 0.008
stage
• At rate labeled for Aim 2EC, control is limited to weeds less than 3 inches tall, or morningglory with no more than 3 leaves, and velvetleaf up to 4
inches.
• Application timing is 4 inches tall to just prior to boot stage, but application should be based on small weeds.
• Tank-mix with other herbicides to increase weed control spectrum.
• Aim does not provide residual weed control.
• Use a non-ionic surfactant (NIS); do not use crop oil concentrate (COC) on emerged sorghum with either formulation.
Atrazine 4L or atrazine 5 grain, before 12 inches 0.75–2 qt 0.75–2
forage
Atrazine 90DF 0.83–2.2 lb
• Apply before sorghum exceeds 12 inches; apply before weeds are 1.5 inches tall.
• Sorghum is not as tolerant as corn to atrazine.
• If no atrazine was applied prior to sorghum emergence, maximum application rate is 2 qt/A. If POST application is following an earlier atrazine
application, total atrazine amount cannot exceed 2.5 lb ai.
Sorghum Pest Management | 363

Table 2.3-10. Comments on postemergence herbicides for sorghum (continued).
Site of
• Length of residual control depends on rate applied.
• Add 1 qt crop oil concentrate (COC)/A to spray solution. Do not include oil if sorghum is under stress from prolonged cold, wet weather or other
factors.
Atrazine use restrictions:

• Do not mix, load, or apply within 50 feet of drinking water wells, livestock wells, agricultural drainage wells, irrigation wells, abandoned wells, or
sinkholes.
• Do not mix or load within 50 feet of intermittent streams, perennial streams, rivers, lakes, or reservoirs.
• Do not apply within 200 feet of lakes or reservoirs.
• Do not apply within 66 feet of the points where surface water runoff enters intermittent streams, perennial streams, or rivers. The 66-foot buffers
should be planted to a crop or seeded with grass on highly erodible land.
• Restricted-use pesticide and water quality advisory.
Clarity 4S dicamba (DGA 4 grain, spike to 15 8 fl oz 0.25 ae
salt) forage inches; over 8
inches, drops
recommended
• May apply dicamba up to 0.25 lb ae/A from spike stage but before it is 15 inches tall; for best performance, apply when sorghum is in the 3- to
5-leaf stage; use drop nozzles if sorghum is taller than 8 inches to avoid spray getting into the whorl.
• Applications during periods of rapid growth may increase the risk of injury.
• Under most situations, dicamba does not provide acceptable levels of residual weed control.
Basagran 4S bentazon 6 grain, before heading 1.5–2 pt 0.75–1
forage
• Apply to sorghum before heading or blooming; however, Basagran needs to be applied when weeds are small and actively growing.
• Basagran is weak on pigweed species, including Palmer amaranth.
• Tank-mix with atrazine to broaden spectrum of control.
• Label recommends use of crop oil concentrate.
• Split treatments may be required for yellow nutsedge and Canada thistle.
• Basagran does not provide residual weed control.
Bicep II Magnum 5.5SC S-metolachlor 15 grain, 3-leaf growth 1.3–2.1 qt 0.78–1.26
forage stage up to 12
atrazine 5 0.99–1.6
inches
• Use sorghum seed treated with an approved seed safener for chloroacetamide herbicides (Group 15).
• Do not apply more than a total of 2.58 qt of Bicep II Magnum/A/season (i.e., 1.55 lb ai/A S-metolachlor and 1.97 lb ai/A atrazine).
• If other products containing S-metolachlor have been applied, the combined total amount of S-metolachlor resulting from all applications must
not exceed 1.7 lb ai/A/calendar year.
• See individual component sections in this table and atrazine use restrictions for additional information.
• Tank-mix with other herbicides to increase weed control spectrum.
• Make applications at least 75 days before harvest.
• Add 1 qt crop oil concentrate (COC)/A to spray solution. The addition of UAN or AMS is recommended to improve control.
• Restricted-use pesticides and water quality advisory.
Facet 1.5L quinclorac 4 grain only before 12 inches 22–32 fl oz 0.25–0.375
tall
• Sorghum stage is from emergence up to 12 inches tall.
• For best activity apply with atrazine at 0.5 to 1 lb ai to weeds less than 2 inches tall.
• Add 1 qt crop oil concentrate or methylated seed soil for better weed control. Ammonium sulfate (AMS) or urea ammonium nitrate (UAN) can also
be added for improved efficacy. Non-ionic surfactant (NIS) plus a nitrogen source (AMS) may be used when Facet is tank-mixed with products that
restrict use of crop oil concentrates.
• Facet can provide residual control of susceptible weed species.

Site of
Huskie 2.06EC pyrasulfotole + 27 grain, 3 leaves to 30 12.8–16 fl oz 0.031–0.038

forage inches tall (prior
bromoxynil 6 0.18–0.22
to flag leaf emer-
gence)
• Application timing for sorghum stage is 3-leaf up to 30 inches and/or prior to flag leaf emergence.
• Huskie label does not require a surfactant. Non-ionic surfactant (NIS) and ammonium sulfate (AMS) can be included under challenging growing
conditions, or if tank-mix partner requires an additive.
• Huskie can be tank-mixed with atrazine at 0.25 to 1 lb ai to improve and broaden spectrum of control; see atrazine entry in this table for precau-
tions.
• Addition of atrazine with Huskie is recommended for most situations.
• Two applications of Huskie can be applied POST, but there must be an interval of 11 days between Huskie applications.
• Crop injury can occur if Huskie is applied to fields treated with mesotrione (Lumax or Lexar).
Maestro (Buctril) 2E bromoxynil 6 grain, 4 leaves to pre- 1–1.5 pt 0.25–0.375
forage boot stage
• Apply to sorghum between 4-leaf stage and up to preboot stage; however, Maestro needs to be applied when weeds are small and actively
growing.
• When applied alone, Maestro does not need any additional surfactant; when tank-mixing, it can be applied in combination with surfactants or
crop oil concentrate.
• Maestro is weak on pigweed species, including Palmer amaranth.
• Maestro does not provide residual weed control.
Peak 57WG prosulfuron 2 grain, 5 to 30 inches 0.5–1 oz 0.018–0.036
forage tall; over 20
inches, drops are
recommended
• Application timing is between 5 and 30 inches tall, and prior to head emergence; use drop nozzles after sorghum is 20 inches tall. Application
should focus on weed size rather than crop stage.
• Tank-mix with other labeled POST herbicides to broaden spectrum of control.
• Peak applications should include a non-ionic surfactant (NIS). Crop oil concentrate can be included if tank-mix partner recommends COC.
• Refer to label for additional information on use and restrictions.
• Peak will provide residual control of susceptible species.
• ALS-resistant biotypes of marestail/horseweed are found in the region and thus Group 2 herbicides will not be effective against these popula-
tions. To prevent herbicide resistance, avoid repeated annual applications of ALS (Group 2) herbicides.
Permit 75WG or Sandea 75WG halosulfuron 2 grain only 2 leaves to before 0.67–1 oz 0.031–0.047
head emergence
• Apply from 2-leaf stage but before grain head emergence.
• The 0.67 oz rate is the standard rate for annual weed control.
• Permit/Sandea is excellent on yellow nutsedge but weak on common lambsquarters.
• Tank-mix with other labeled POST herbicides to broaden spectrum of control. Yukon is a prepackaged product containing Permit + dicamba.
• Permit/Sandea should be applied with non-ionic surfactant (NIS); use of crop oil concentrate (COC) increases risk of crop injury.
• Permit/Sandea will provide residual control of susceptible species.
• Permit/Sandea is an ALS (Group 2) herbicide and there is widespread resistance to Group 2 herbicides in the region. To prevent herbicide resis-
tance, avoid repeated annual applications of ALS (Group 2) herbicides.
Starane Ultra 2.8L fluroxypyr 4 grain, 3- to 7-leaf stage; 0.4 pt 0.14
forage use drops for
8-leaf to boot
stage
• Timing for broadcast application 3-leaf of sorghum through 7-leaf stage, and drop nozzles from 8-leaf to boot stage.
• Can be tank-mixed with other labeled herbicides to broaden spectrum of control.
• Surfactants not needed; Starane Ultra is applied alone, but surfactants may be used when required by tank-mix partner.
• Two applications of Starane Ultra can be made.
• Starane Ultra will not provide residual weed control.
Sorghum Pest Management | 365

Site of
Yukon 67.5WDG halosulfuron + 2 grain only 2 to 15 inches 4–6 oz 0.03–0.045

tall; use drops
dicamba 4 0.125–0.188
after 8-leaf stage
• Yukon is a premix of halosulfuron (Permit) plus the sodium salt of dicamba.
• Yukon can be applied from 2-leaf through 15-inch-tall sorghum; use drop nozzles after sorghum is 8 inches tall.
• Include non-ionic surfactant (NIS); crop oil concentrate (COC) can be used, but it increases the risk of injury.
• See entry for each component of Yukon for more information.
• To prevent herbicide resistance, avoid repeated annual applications of soil-persistent ALS (Group 2) herbicides.
• Yukon will provide residual control of susceptible species.
Zest 75WDG nicosulfuron 2 grain only 5- to flag-leaf 0.67–1.33 oz 0.031–0.062
stage
• Labeled on Inzen grain sorghum only; conventional sorghum hybrids will be killed if treated with Zest.
• Do not plant Inzen grain sorghum in fields known to have ALS-resistant johnsongrass or shattercane.
• Do not tank-mix with Huskie, or injury will occur.
• Two applications of Zest can be applied POST, but there must be an interval of 7 days between Zest applications.
• Zest should be applied with non-ionic surfactant (NIS), or crop oil concentrate (COC) except when mixed with 2,4-D or dicamba.
• Risk of crop injury is higher with early POST application or when cool weather conditions prevail. Zest may cause temporal yellowing to Inzen
sorghum but will recover quickly.
• Zest does not provide residual weed control.
POST-Directed
Linex 4L or linuron 6 label does 1–2 pt 0.5–1
not specify
Lorox 50DF 1–2 lb
• POST-directed application only. Do not apply over-the-top of emerged sorghum.
• Use only when there is sufficient differential between height of sorghum and weeds so that weeds are thoroughly covered and upper leaves of
sorghum and whorl are not exposed to spray or drift.
• Include a non-ionic surfactant (NIS).
• Weeds should be treated prior to 2-inch-tall grass weeds and 6-inch broadleaf weeds.
• Linex/Lorox will provide residual control of susceptible species.
*See Table 2.1-10 (generics) for additional herbicides that contain these active ingredients.

of charcoal rot, rotate to a cereal crop for two years. Charcoal attributed to these epidemics are estimated to be between 10
rot can also cause corn stalk rot, so a corn-soy rotation will and 20 percent. In severely diseased fields, the yield losses
not be effective in reducing inoculum. The disease can also may exceed 50 percent.
infect alfalfa and clover; therefore, if rotating to a forage crop, Wilting of the plants is often the first indication that
choose a grass rather than a legume. white mold is developing within a soybean canopy. Upon
inspection, diseased plants are found to have stem lesions and
Downy Mildew signs of white, cottony mold growth. As the disease pro-
Downy mildew usually starts as small, irregularly shaped gresses, the leaves and stems of infected plants turn brown.
yellow lesions on the leaf surface. On the underside of the Hard black structures, known as sclerotia, are often present
leaf, a small gray or brown tuft is evident as the lesions age. In on and within infected stem and pod tissue.
some situations, downy mildew will infect the pod and cause
a wrinkled, discolored seed. This disease is relatively common White Mold Management
in Pennsylvania with little known economic impact. White mold has proved to be a difficult disease to manage in
Pennsylvania and many soybean production regions. Pro-
Frogeye Leaf Spot ducers can reduce the risk of severe white mold by following
Frogeye leaf spot is characterized by dark brown spots these recommendations.
surrounded by a red or brown margin. As the lesions age, Variety selection. High levels of resistance to white mold
the margins maintain their brown color, with a gray to white are not currently available; however, soybean varieties do
center, which may contain minute dark spots. This is a very differ in response to white mold. Soybeans that are less sus-
common disease with usually little economic impact in the ceptible to white mold are available for some maturity groups,
Northeast. In some situations, such as soybean no-till planted and these varieties can effectively reduce the risk of severe
into soybean stubble, the disease can be severe and cause white mold. When considering varieties with unknown white
defoliation. The best method of control is crop rotation. mold resistance, select a taller growing variety with medium
Fungicide-resistant populations of the fungus that causes this canopy width to help reduce the humidity within the canopy.
disease have been identified in several states across the coun- Avoid planting fields with a history of white mold with highly
try and as close as Virginia. These populations are no longer susceptible varieties.
sensitive to the strobilurin (FRAC Group 11) fungicides. Crop rotation. Each year a portion of the pathogen pop-
When applying a fungicide to manage this disease, be sure to ulation will die because of adverse weather conditions or the
use a product that includes modes of action other than FRAC activities of other organisms. Rotation to a nonhost crop such
Group 11. as corn, wheat, or other grass will provide time for the fungal
population to drop and reduce the risk of severe disease.
Soybean Vein Necrosis Virus Fields with 5 to 25 percent disease should not be planted to
This virus produces symptoms that include mottled yellow soybean for at least one year. Fields with 26 to 50 percent dis-
leaf discoloration radiating from main veins, often in younger ease should not have soybeans for two years, and fields with
leaves. mottled yellow discoloration radiating from main greater than 50 percent disease should be rotated away from
veins, often in younger leaves. These yellowed areas often turn soybeans for at least two to three years.
reddish brown to brown or necrotic with time. This virus Tillage. Tillage practices have been shown to influence
is transmitted by thrips, a tiny, slender-bodied insect about the survival of the fungus. Deep plowing a field can be used to
1/32 to 1/5 inch long. Young thrips are often yellow and later effectively bury sclerotia deep enough that they can no longer
have dark patches and fringed wings as adults. Thrips are germinate and release spores. However, buried sclerotia are
very numerous in soybean fields and considered to have little known to survive longer than those left on the soil surface,
impact, except transmitting this disease. This disease has been and subsequent plowing can bring them back near the soil
found to be widespread across Pennsylvania fields, and no surface. In contrast, minimum tillage and no-till practices
yield loss data have been compiled at this time. favor the natural decline of the fungal populations in the
absence of a susceptible crop.
White Mold (Sclerotinia Stem Rot) Canopy management. Management practices that favor
rapid canopy closure can result in an environment that is
White mold, also known as Sclerotinia stem rot, has caused
favorable for disease development. In fields with a history
localized outbreaks in Pennsylvania and poses a serious threat
of white mold, the use of wider row spacing (15- to 30-inch
to soybean production in the Commonwealth. Fields near
rows) and reducing plant populations to below 125,000 plants
river bottoms where the environmental conditions (fog and
per acre will help reduce canopy humidity and increase
extended periods of high humidity) favor disease develop-
canopy air movement. Drilled beans at narrow row spacings
ment are most at risk for white mold. Average yield losses
pose the highest threat.

Weed control. Many broadleaf weeds can also be hosts of after plant death. Phomopsis seed decay causes infected
the fungus. Not controlling these weeds can allow the spread seeds to be shriveled, elongated, and cracked with a white,
of the disease within a field and may reduce the effectiveness chalky appearance. Although infection can occur at any time
of the crop rotation. after pod set, symptoms are not evident until nearing matu-
Adjust harvest priorities. Since the sclerotia (reproduc- rity. In fields with prior history, harvest as soon as possible
tive structures) are about the size of soybeans, fields with because seeds throughout the plant may be affected under wet
severe white mold and sections of fields that are heavily dis- conditions. Control measures should include crop rotation
eased should be harvested last to avoid spreading the fungus and prompt harvest. Fungicide applications have not been
within and between fields. Thoroughly clean all harvesting consistent in controlling these diseases.
equipment before moving from diseased fields to locations
where white mold is absent. Sudden Death Syndrome
Chemical control. Certain fungicide treatments are At onset, sudden death syndrome looks very similar to brown
labeled and show promising results for management of stem rot, beginning as interveinal chlorosis then necrosis
white mold. However, application timing is key to achieving of the upper leaves after flowering. Affected plants are often
efficacy. In order to penetrate the soybean canopy, the ideal in wet or compacted areas of the field, and these areas may
growth stage for treatment is R1. A treatment at R3 can still enlarge over time. To distinguish sudden death syndrome
provide some control, but it is less effective. When rotating from brown stem rot, it is important to dig up the roots of
back in to a field with a history of white mold, an applica- affected plants. Sudden death syndrome is often associated
tion of a fungicide by R1 may be warranted up to five years with root rots, and light blue spore patches may be present
postinfestation. near the soil line. Note that this blue coloration will disappear
with age as the sample dries out, so check immediately after
Late Season Diseases digging. Once dug up, split the stem from crown to a couple
Brown Stem Rot inches above the soil line. Sudden death syndrome will have
Brown stem rot has been increasing in occurrence in Penn- a white pith (the center portion of the root), and brown stem
sylvania. Although infection often occurs early in the season, rot will have a brown pith and usually no root rot. Since
foliar symptoms of brown stem rot often appear after pod set both diseases cause premature death of the plants, the effect
and include interveinal chlorosis and necrosis, leading to leaf is often reduced seed size, reduced pod fill, and lodging of
rolling and leaf death. These symptoms are similar to sudden affected plants. The causal agent is a soilborne fungus and
death syndrome and stem canker. The easiest way to diagnose will remain in the soil. Best management practices include
this disease is by digging up the roots and splitting the stem avoiding early plantings into cold soils, alleviating compacted
from the crown up the stem to look for the characteristic and/or wet areas in the field, and using proper crop rotation.
browning often evident in the pith, or center of the stem. The Varieties with some moderate resistance to sudden death
fungus responsible for this disease overwinters in the soil syndrome are available and should be planted when rotating
and in soybean debris. Losses in Pennsylvania have not been back into an affected field. In-furrow fungicide applications
determined, but those in other states reportedly have been and foliar applications of fungicides have had no significant
as high as 25 percent. Losses occur because of reduced pod effect in reducing the disease. Some seed treatments, includ-
fill, small seed size, and lodging of infected plants. Severity ing ILeVO and Saltro, have been shown to increase yields
appears to be greatest when cool weather occurs during pod when used in fields with a history of sudden death syndrome.
fill followed by hot, dry weather. Control measures include In certain circumstances, phytotoxicity may be observed on
using a BSR-resistant variety and proper crop rotation to the seed leaves of soybeans treated with both ILeVO and a
corn, small grains, or forage legumes to reduce pathogen preemergence herbicide. However, plants generally grow out
levels. of this with no long-term impact on growth or yield.
Diaporthe-Phomopsis Complex Seed Diseases

Diaporthe-phomopsis complex consists of stem blight, stem Phomopsis seed decay and purple seed stain are two common
canker, and seed decay often found as one or more symptoms seed diseases in Pennsylvania. These diseases can result in
on affected plants. Stem blight is found on mature stems as significant reduction in grain quality and yield losses when
linear rows of black specks on the stems and random black environmental conditions favor disease development. Losses
specks on the pods. Stem canker often begins during the are most significant when harvest is delayed by wet weather.
early reproductive stages on the lower leaf nodes as small, No mycotoxins are associated with these diseases.
reddish-brown lesions that expand often girdling the stems, Cercospora leaf blight and purple seed stain are caused
causing wilting and plant death. The leaves remain attached by one pathogen that causes two very different symptoms
Soybean Pest Management | 453

Table 2.6-15. Herbicides labeled for use in CRP acres.
Specific CRP Labeled for CRP Specific CRP Labeled for CRP
CRP Grass Same as Grass Section Grass, Not Forage Legume Section Legume, Not
Trade Name Forage (use guide) (see label) (see label) (see label) Forage (see label)
2,4-D amine/ester POST

2,4-DB/Butyrac 200 POST POST
Aim POST
Chaparral1 POST
Cimarron Max POST
Cimarron Plus POST
Clarity/dicamba POST
Crossbow POST
DuraCor POST
Facet POST
Glyphosate Preplant, renovation, Preplant or reno-
or dormant POST vation
Gramoxone SL Preplant Preplant
GrazonNext HL1 POST
Grazon P+D2 POST
Huskie POST
Journey preplant3 Preplant
Kerb POST
MCPA POST POST
Maestro POST POST
Metsulfuron POST 4
Milestone 1
POST
PastureGard POST
Plateau PRE3 or POST3 PRE or POST
Permit/Sandea POST
Poast POST
Prowl EC/pendimethalin PPI or PRE
Pursuit POST POST
Remedy Ultra POST
Starane Ultra POST
Stinger POST
Telar XP POST
Weedmaster POST
This table contains herbicides that are available for use on Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) acres seeded to grasses or legumes. Many products labeled for use
on grass forage have the same label requirements for CRP grasses. These uses are listed in the first column of the table, and the grass forage section of this guide also
applies to use on CRP acres. Some products labeled for use on grass or legume forage can be used on CRP acres but have specific label recommendations or supple-
mental labels for CRP acres (columns 2 and 4). Other products are not labeled for use on forages grown in Delaware, but their use is allowed on CRP acres (columns 3
and 5). When choosing products for CRP acres, it is very important to consult the herbicide labels to determine non-target plant, environmental, and human risks, grass
or legume species tolerance, weed species susceptibility, use rates, rotational crop or overseeding restrictions, and adjuvant requirements.
1
For Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia only.
2
For Virginia and West Virginia only.
3
Primarily for use on warm-season grasses.
4
Not on all metsulfuron labels.
Forage Pest Management | 523

Table 2.6-16. Herbicides labeled for summer annual grass crops.
Rotation
Rotation to Small Rotation to
Labeled Annual Use Rate per Season Maxi- Grazing/Harvest to Grasses Grains Alfalfa/Clover
Herbicide Grasses Timing*/Weed Type Acre Crop Stage mum Rate Interval (days) (months) (months) (months)
2,4-D Forage sorghum, POST/broadleaf 0.5 to 2.1 pt At least 6 leaves 2.1 pt (1 appl.) 30 1 after harvest after harvest
sorghum-sudan and 5 to 10 inches
hybrid tall
Aim1 Teff, crabgrass POST/broadleaf 0.5 to 2 fl oz Any 5.9 fl oz (3 appl.) 0 0 0 12/12

Aim1 Millets POST/broadleaf 0.5 to 2 fl oz Up to jointing 2 fl oz 7 0 0 12/12
1
Aim Forage sorghum POST/broadleaf 0.5 to 1 fl oz Up to 6-leaf 1 fl oz After 6-leaf 0 0 12/12
Atrazine 4L1 Forage sorghum, PPI, PRE, POST/ 3.2 to 4 pt Up to 12 inches 5 pt PPI/PRE: 60; Second year Next year Second year
sorghum-sudan broadleaf (see label) POST: 45 to second
hybrid year2
Basagran1 Forage sorghum POST/broadleaf 1 to 2 pt Before heading 2 pt 12 0 0 0
Callisto1 Pearl millet PRE/broadleaf up to 6 fl oz N/a 6 fl oz (1 appl.) n/a 18 4 10/18
Dicamba Forage sorghum, POST/broadleaf 8 to 32 fl oz At least 3-leaf 64 fl oz 7 1 0.5 to 1.5 4

sudangrass (see label)
Dual II Magnum3,4 Forage sorghum PRE/grass 1 to 1.67 pt5 N/a 1 appl. n/a Next spring 4.5 4/9
1 Forage sorghum POST/broadleaf 12.8 to 16 3-leaf but prior 32 fl oz 7/7 1 (9 for 1 week 4/bioassay
Huskie
fl oz to flag leaf or 30 timothy)
inches
Maestro 2EC Forage sorghum, POST/broadleaf 1 to 1.5 pt 3-leaf but prior to 2 pt 45 1 1 1
(Buctril) (for 4EC sudangrass, sor- preboot/4-leaf but
formulation reduce ghum-sudan hybrid prior to preboot
rates by half)3
Permit/Sandea1 Pearl millet POST/broadleaf and 0.5 to 0.67 oz 2-leaf but prior to 0.67 oz 0/0 (forage); 37 2 2 9
nutsedge head (hay)
Permit/Sandea1 Sorghum POST/broadleaf and 0.67 to 1 oz 2-leaf but prior to 1 oz 30/30 2 2 9

nutsedge head
Yukon Sorghum, proso POST/broadleaf and 3 to 6 oz 3- to 5-leaf 6 oz (1 appl.) 0/0; 30/30 2 2 9
millet nutsedge
Pay particular attention to rotational crop restrictions; consult labels for crops not listed. Check labels for weeds controlled. The listed postemergence herbicides typically control only small annual broadleaf weeds, so check
labels for maximum weed size or growth stage.
*Application timing: POST = postemergence; PPI = preplant incorporated; PRE = preemergence.
1
Check label for adjuvant recommendations.
2
Next year if applied before June 10; second year if applied after June 10.
3
No adjuvant recommended.
4
Requires the use of Concep-treated seed.
5
Coarse soils, 1 to 1.33 pt; medium soils, 1.33 to 1.5 pt; fine soils, 1.33 to 1.67 pt.
Appendix | 551
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Code AGRS-026 Rev1M12/20theprinters.com

SECTION LIST
Part I, Section 1. Soil Management
Part I, Section 2. Soil Fertility Management
Part I, Section 3. Storing Seed and Grain
Part I, Section 4. Corn
Part I, Section 5. Grain Sorghum
Part I, Section 6. Soybean
Part I, Section 7. Small Grains
Part I, Section 8. Forages
Part I, Section 9. Nontraditional Soil Amendments
Part I, Section 10. Cover Crops
Part I, Section 11. Organic Crop Production
Part I, Section 12. Farm Management: Enterprise Budgets
Part II, Section 1. Pest Management
Part II, Section 2. Corn Pest Management
Part II, Section 3. Sorghum Pest Management
Part II, Section 4. Soybean Pest Management
Part II, Section 5. Small Grain Pest Management
Part II, Section 6. Forage Pest Management
Code AGRS-026

The Penn State Agronomy Guide 1

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2021–2022

Part II: Pest Management

Cover image courtesy of Sjoerd Duiker.

Pennsylvania’s climate is highly affected by movements of

relative humidity of the air increases as it cools, until mois-

2 | The Agronomy Guide 2021–2022

The Soils of Pennsylvania

4. Glaciated Low Plateau

4 | The Agronomy Guide 2021–2022

Abbottstown D4 SWPD 17 4 130 15 58 3.5 508 80 508 3 40

Albrights D4 MWD 17 3 160 21 5 4.5 60 80 75 4 40

Allegheny D WD 2 1 200 30 7 5.5 70 100 100 5 60

Allenwood D WD 2 1 200 30 7 5.5 70 100 100 5 60

Alton D WD6 3 3 160 21 5 4.5 60 80 75 4 40

Alvira D4 SWPD 17 4 130 15 58 3.5 508 80 508 3 40

Atkins D PD 17 4 130 15 58 3.5 508 80 508 3 40

Barbour D WD 27 1 200 30 7 5.5 70 100 100 5 60

Bedington D WD 2 1 200 30 7 5.5 70 100 100 5 60

Berks MD WD 2 3 160 21 5 4.5 60 80 75 4 40

Blairton MD MWD 17 4 130 15 5 3.5 508 80 508 3 40

Bowmansville D SWPD 27 4 130 15 58 3.5 508 80 508 3 40

Brecknock D WD 2 2 160 21 6 5 70 100 100 4 50

Brinkerton D PD 2 4 130 15 58 3.5 508 80 508 3 40

Brooke MD WD 1 2 160 21 6 5 70 100 100 4 50

Bucks D WD 2 1 200 30 7 5.5 70 100 100 5 60

Calvin MD WD 2 3 160 21 5 4.5 60 80 75 4 40

Cambridge D4 MWD 17 3 160 21 5 4.5 60 80 75 4 40

Chenango D WD6 3 2 160 21 6 5 70 100 100 4 50

Chester D WD 2 1 200 30 7 5.5 70 100 100 5 60

Clymer D WD 2 2 160 21 6 5 70 100 100 4 50

Comly D SWPD 17 3 160 21 58 4.5 60 80 75 4 40

Conestoga D WD 2 1 200 30 7 5.5 70 100 100 5 60

Conotton D WD 2 2 160 21 6 5 70 100 100 4 50

6 | The Agronomy Guide 2021–2022

Cookport D4 MWD 17 3 160 21 5 4.5 60 80 75 4 40

Croton D4 PD 17 4 130 15 58 3.5 508 80 508 3 40

Culleoka MD WD 2 3 160 21 5 4.5 60 80 75 4 40

DeKalb MD WD 2 3 160 21 5 4.5 60 80 75 4 40

Duffield D WD 2 1 200 30 7 5.5 70 100 100 5 60

Duncannon D WD 2 1 200 30 7 5.5 70 100 100 5 60

Edgemont D WD 2 2 160 21 6 5 70 100 100 4 50

Edom D WD 1 2 160 21 6 5 70 100 100 4 50

Elliber D WD6 3 2 160 21 6 5 70 100 100 4 50

Erie D5 SWPD 17 4 130 15 58 3.5 508 80 508 3 40

Frenchtown D4 PD 17 4 130 15 58 3.5 508 80 508 3 40

Gilpin MD WD 2 3 160 21 5 4.5 60 80 75 4 40

Glenelg D WD 2 1 200 30 7 5.5 70 100 100 5 60

Guernsey D MWD 17 3 160 21 5 4.5 60 80 75 4 40

Hagerstown D WD 1 1 200 30 7 5.5 70 100 100 5 60

Hartleton D WD 2 3 160 21 5 4.5 60 80 75 4 40

Hazleton D WD 2 2 160 21 6 5 70 100 100 4 50

Highfield D WD 2 1 200 30 7 5.5 70 100 100 5 60

Hublersburg D WD 2 1 200 30 7 5.5 70 100 100 5 60

Huntington D WD 2 1 200 30 7 5.5 70 100 100 5 60

Klinesville S WD 2 4 130 15 58 3.5 508 80 508 3 40

Laidig D4 WD 17 2 160 21 6 5 70 100 100 4 50

Langford D4 WD 17 3 160 21 5 4.5 60 80 75 4 40

Lansdale D WD 2 2 160 21 6 5 70 100 100 4 50

Leck Kill D WD 2 2 160 21 6 5 70 100 100 4 50

Other Small Grains to performance information from Cornell University (https://