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Tags | VCE Publications | Virginia Tech
Resources for
Agricultural Insects Pests
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Title
Available As
Summary
Date
ID
Author
Cucumber Beetles
Apr 30, 2020
2808-1009 (ENTO-368NP)
Eric R. Day
Insect Pest Management in Virginia: Cotton, Peanut, and Soybean 2010
May 1, 2009
2812-1027
D. Ames Herbert
Potato Aphid on Tomatoes
Mar 29, 2019
2901-1031 (ENTO-308NP)
Thomas P. Kuhar
Sara Reiter
Helene Doughty
Adam M. Alford
Japanese Beetle
Japanese Beetle
(PDF)
The Japanese beetle is found throughout Virginia and in most of the Eastern United States. In regions west of the Mississippi it is found in isolated pockets. Japanese beetles were first found in New Jersey in 1916 and have spread from that point since. The Japanese beetle has been well established in Virginia since the early
1970’s.
Sep 2, 2022
2902-1101 (ENTO-514NP)
T.A. Dellinger
Eric R. Day
Alejandro Del-Pozo
Douglas G. Pfeiffer
Pine Needle Scale
Pine Needle Scale
(PDF)
Damage is not apparent until large populations have been present for more than 1 or 2 seasons. Trees are stunted, grow slowly, have short needles and shoots. Occasionally the feeding of scales produces chlorotic, yellowish flecks no the needles, but normally this is not apparent. Heavily infested plants are seriously weakened and may be in a state of decline.
Oct 20, 2025
2907-1400 (ENTO-371NP)
Eric R. Day
European Hornet
European Hornet
(PDF)
European hornets (Vespa crabo) are large, stout bodied insects. They have a painful sting, but do not appear particularly aggressive or vicious unless defending their nest. European hornets are nocturnal and attracted to lights at night. They sometimes girdle the twigs and small branches of thin-barked trees and shrubs to feed on plant sap. European hornets are frequently mistaken for the northern giant hornet, which has only been reported from a small area in Washington State or across the border in British Columbia.
Dec 7, 2023
2911-1422 (ENTO-576NP)
Eric R. Day
T.A. Dellinger
Twig Girdler/Twig Pruner
Twig Girdler/Twig Pruner
(PDF)
These beetles cause very conspicuous damage in late summer. The leaves on large numbers of twigs and branches will be observed to turn brown prematurely. These twigs and branches sometimes fall from trees in great numbers and accumulate. On close examination, the twigs have one of two kinds of damage. Twigs damaged by the twig girdler are cut as neatly as by a knife. The cut end has been gnawed almost straight across with a faint rounding and is slightly roughened by the chewing. The twig girdler is more commonly found on pecan and hickory. The twig pruner causes a slightly different type of cut. The twig will be observed to have a hollowed out space at the cut end filled with sawdust like frass. The twig when split open will have a long tunnel through most of its length. The twig pruner is more commonly found on oak.
Oct 20, 2025
2911-1423 (ENTO-374NP)
Eric R. Day
T.A. Dellinger
Virginia Pine Sawfly
Virginia Pine Sawfly
(PDF)
The Virginia pine sawfly has been recorded from New Jersey and Maryland to North Carolina and westward to Illinois. Its main hosts are Virginia and shortleaf pines, but it also feeds on pitch and loblolly pine.
Oct 20, 2025
2911-1424 (ENTO-375NP)
Eric R. Day
Scott Salom
The Minute Pirate Bug (Orius)
The Minute Pirate Bug (Orius)
(PDF)
Minute pirate bugs, particularly Orius insidiosus, are vital biological control agents for managing herbivorous insect pests. These small, predatory insects prey on a range of soft-bodied pests including thrips, mites, and aphids, making them crucial for natural pest suppression in a variety of agricultural settings. Orius are especially attracted to flowering plants, which makes landscape-level strategies like farmscaping—such as planting hedgerows, insectary plants, and cover crops—highly effective in boosting their populations. Producers and homeowners can protect and encourage these beneficial insects by minimizing broad-spectrum pesticide use and integrating pest management practices that support their habitat, thereby leveraging their natural predatory capabilities to reduce pest densities and enhance the health of crop plants.
Oct 8, 2024
3002-1437 (ENTO-598NP)
Ben Aigner
Adam M. Alford
Heather Andrews
Thomas P. Kuhar
Leaf‐ Footed Bugs
Dec 21, 2010
3012-1522
Thomas P. Kuhar
James Jenrette
Helene Doughty
Flour and Grain Beetles
Flour and Grain Beetles
(PDF)
Jan 12, 2022
3101-1577 (ENTO-469NP)
T.A. Dellinger
Eric R. Day
Corn Earworm on Vegetables
Corn Earworm on Vegetables
(PDF)
Corn earworm is a pest of multiple agricultural crops grown in Virginia, including vegetables. These pests have a wide host range and can cause extensive damage, but monitoring and a variety of control methods help suppress populations and prevent losses.
Oct 21, 2024
3103-1537 (SPES-624NP)
Brian Currin
Katlyn Catron
Ben Aigner
Thomas P. Kuhar
Cabbage Looper
Cabbage Looper
(PDF)
Cabbage looper frequently shows up as a pest in cole crops in Virginia. Herein contains information regarding it's biology and management recommendations.
Oct 4, 2022
3104-1544 (ENTO-519NP)
Kyle M. Bekelja
Eric R. Day
Celery Leaftier
Celery Leaftier
(PDF)
Mar 25, 2022
3104-1545 (ENTO-496NP)
T.A. Dellinger
Eric R. Day
Grasshoppers
Grasshoppers
(PDF)
Dec 21, 2021
3104-1550 (ENTO-483NP)
T.A. Dellinger
Eric R. Day
Hornworms in Home Gardens
Hornworms in the Home Gardens
(PDF)
May 31, 2023
3104-1551 (ENTO-561NP)
Eric R. Day
T.A. Dellinger
Imported Cabbageworm in Home Gardens
Dec 13, 2017
3104-1552 (ENTO-253NP)
Eric R. Day
Thomas P. Kuhar
Insect Pests of Potatoes in Home Gardens
Dec 13, 2017
3104-1553 (ENTO-256NP)
Eric R. Day
Thomas P. Kuhar
Onion Thrips
Onion Thrips
(PDF)
Adult onion thrips are yellowish-brown, slender, elongated insects about 1 mm (0.04 inch) long. They have two pairs of light-colored, fringed wings and dark eyes. The abdomens have dark brown bands across their width. Larvae are pale with red eyes and lacking wings, but otherwise similar to adults in appearance.
Oct 20, 2025
3104-1556 (ENTO-370NP)
Eric R. Day
T.A. Dellinger
Pepper Weevil
Pepper Weevil
(PDF)
Jun 6, 2022
3104-1558 (ENTO-507NP)
T.A. Dellinger
Eric R. Day
Raspberry Crown Borer
Raspberry Crown Borer
(PDF)
Dec 22, 2021
3104-1561 (ENTO-473NP)
T.A. Dellinger
Eric R. Day
Rose Scale
Rose Scale
(PDF)
Apr 22, 2022
3104-1565 (ENTO-501NP)
T.A. Dellinger
Eric R. Day
Alejandro Del-Pozo
Stalk Borer
Stalk Borer
(PDF)
Dec 22, 2021
3104-1567 (ENTO-477NP)
T.A. Dellinger
Eric R. Day
Tarnished Plant Bug
Apr 25, 2011
3104-1568
Eric R. Day
Whitefringed Beetles
Whitefringed Beetles
(PDF)
Whitefringed beetles have a wide host range that includes field and row crops, including potato, soybean, turnip, peanut, sweet potato, cabbage, collards, tobacco, sweet corn, strawberry, and blackberry. They may attack young pines and other ornamental trees grown in nurseries or plantations, especially if grown on converted cropland. Wild host plants serve as a reservoir for beetles that move into crops and nurseries.
Oct 20, 2025
3104-1571 (ENTO-379NP)
Eric R. Day
T.A. Dellinger
Carpenter Ants
Carpenter Ants
(PDF)
Carpenter ants can be found outside on trees and sidewalks and indoor. Where they are found determines how
best to control them. Inside they can be active indoors during many months of the year, usually during the spring and
summer. When ants are active in the house during late winter/early spring (February/March), the infestation (nest) is
probably within the household. In late spring large numbers of foraging ants may come in from outside looking for food and may not indicate and infestation. Outside carpenter ants become active in late spring and early summer and will be seen on tree trunks and sidewalks.
Jan 20, 2022
3104-1573 (ENTO-485NP)
T.A. Dellinger
Eric R. Day
Lace Bugs
Lace Bugs
(PDF)
Apr 18, 2022
3104-1581 (ENTO-500NP)
T.A. Dellinger
Eric R. Day
Alejandro Del-Pozo
Obscure Scale
Obscure Scale
(PDF)
Heavily infested trees will have large numbers of scales on twigs and branches. Scales may also be found on exposed roots and on the trunk of young trees. Scale insects feed on plant sap with their long thread-like mouthparts (stylets), which are several times longer than the insect itself.
Apr 18, 2022
3104-1583 (ENTO-499NP)
T.A. Dellinger
Eric R. Day
Alejandro Del-Pozo
Carpet Beetles
Carpet Beetles
(PDF)
Jan 30, 2022
3104-1588 (ENTO-486NP)
T.A. Dellinger
Eric R. Day
Droplet Chart / Selection Guide
When choosing nozzles/droplet sizes for spray applications, applicators must consider both coverage needed and drift potential. As a rule, smaller droplets provide better coverage, but larger droplets are less likely to drift.
Aug 13, 2019
442-031 (BSE-263P)
Robert Grisso
Nozzles: Selection and Sizing
This fact sheet covers nozzle description, recommended use for common nozzle types, and orifice sizing for agricultural and turf sprayers. Proper selection of a nozzle type and size is essential for correct and accurate pesticide application. The nozzle is a major factor in determining the amount of spray applied to an area, uniformity of application, coverage obtained on the target surface, and amount of potential drift.
Aug 13, 2019
442-032 (BSE-262P)
Robert Grisso
Shawn Askew
David McCall
Pepper Maggot, Zonosemata electa, in Sweet (Bell) Pepper
Pepper Maggot, Zonosemata electa, in Sweet (Bell) Pepper
(PDF)
The pepper maggot, Zonosemata electa, is a significant pest of bell pepper in eastern North America, having transitioned from its native wild host, the horse nettle, to domesticated solanaceous plants like bell pepper and eggplant. Infestation levels can be alarming, with near-total crop loss possible from a single maggot per fruit. Control methods primarily involve insecticide applications, posing challenges for organic producers. The pest has a single annual generation, overwintering as a pupa in soil. Monitoring adult populations using yellow sticky traps and oviposition scars is essential for effective management. Cultural practices such as field sanitation, crop rotation, and the eradication of alternate hosts are crucial in mitigating damage. Additionally, trap cropping with hot pepper varieties and perimeter sprays have shown success in reducing damage to bell peppers. Various insecticides are available for pre-emptive control, emphasizing the importance of monitoring to optimize application timing.
Oct 18, 2024
444-005 (ENTO-601NP)
Ben Aigner
Adam M. Alford
Vonny Barlow
Katlyn Catron
Thomas P. Kuhar
Diamondback Moth
Diamondback Moth
(PDF)
Feb 23, 2024
444-007 (ENTO-581NP)
Taylore Sydnor
Thomas P. Kuhar
Alejandro Del-Pozo
Colorado Potato Beetle
Colorado Potato Beetle
(PDF)
Feb 23, 2024
444-012 (ENTO-582NP)
Thomas P. Kuhar
Eric R. Day
Ben Aigner
Fall Armyworm in Vegetable Crops
Fall Armyworm in Vegetable Crops
(PDF)
The fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda), a pest from the Noctuidae family, originates from the tropical Americas and lacks diapause, allowing it to migrate north from Gulf Coast states. This moth has been reported in all U.S. states east of the Rockies and has become a significant pest in other parts of the world. Fall armyworm larvae cause severe defoliation to a variety of plants, especially grasses, and fruit damage to crops like sweet corn, tomatoes, and peppers. Management strategies include using pheromone traps for monitoring, scouting for eggs and larvae, and promoting biological controls. Insecticides are also used, though resistance issues can arise. Effective control requires timely interventions based on thresholds to mitigate economic impact.
Oct 14, 2024
444-015 (ENTO-599NP)
Ben Aigner
Adam M. Alford
Thomas P. Kuhar
Aphids in Virginia Small Grains: Life Cycles, Damage and Control
Aphids in Virginia Small Grains: Life Cycles, Damage and Control
(PDF)
Four species of aphids attack small grains in Virginia - greenbug, corn leaf aphid, bird cherry-oat aphid, and English grain aphid.
Mar 8, 2024
444-018 (ENTO-584P)
Sean Malone
Sally V. Taylor
Eric R. Day
Winter Grain Mite
The adult is relatively large compared to other spider mites and is the only mite of economic importance with the anal pore (a tan to orange spot best seen with microscope, but can be seen with a hand lens) on the upper surface of the abdomen.
May 12, 2020
444-037
D. Ames Herbert
Sean Malone
Bluegrass Billbug Pest Management in Orchardgrass
Feb 4, 2019
444-040
William Kuhn
Curt Laub
Kenner Love
Timothy Mize
Rod R. Youngman
Hunting Billbug Pest Management in Orchardgrass
Feb 4, 2019
444-041
William Kuhn
Curt Laub
Kenner Love
Timothy Mize
Rod R. Youngman
Japanese Beetle in Field Corn
Feb 4, 2019
444-106
Curt Laub
S. Tiwari
Rod R. Youngman
Root-knot Nematode in Field Corn
Feb 4, 2019
444-107
Jon Eisenback
S. Tiwari
Rod R. Youngman
Asiatic Garden Beetle in Field Corn
Feb 4, 2019
444-108
Curt Laub
S. Tiwari
Rod R. Youngman
Slugs in Field Corn
Feb 4, 2019
444-109
Tim A. Jordan
Curt Laub
Rod R. Youngman
Insect Identification and Diagnosis Request
Insect Identification and Diagnosis Request-PDF
(PDF)
Feb 27, 2020
444-113 (ENTO-196NP)
Eric R. Day
Integrated Pest Management Peanut Scouting Manual
In the competitive global peanut market, you need to lower production costs. At the same time, you also need to keep pesticide residues in peanuts to a minimum; protect rivers, streams, and lakes from runoff; and prevent chemicals from leaching through the soil to groundwater. Using IPM to protect crops only from pests that are likely to cause economic losses is a good way to meet these goals.
May 12, 2020
444-126
D. Ames Herbert
Identifying Soybean Fields at Risk to Leaf-Feeding Insects
Identifying Soybean Fields at Risk
(PDF)
This publication explains the relationship between Leaf Area Index and soybean yield potential.
Nov 28, 2023
444-203 (ENTO-565P)
D. Ames Herbert
David Holshouser
Brian P. Jones
Sean Malone
Aphids in Virginia
Aphids in Virginia
(PDF)
Aphids, also called plant lice, are small, soft-bodied insects. Aphids feed in clusters and generally prefer new, succulent shoots or young leaves. They produce honeydew that encourages the growth of sooty mold. Aphids are very common plant pests.
Aug 26, 2025
444-220 (ENTO-617NP)
T.A. Dellinger
Eric R. Day
Spider Mites
Spider Mites
(PDF)
Spider mites (Family Tetranychidae, Order Acari) are not insects; they are closely related to spiders, harvestmen (daddy longlegs), and ticks. Unlike insects, which have six legs and three body parts, spider mites have eight legs and a one-part body. They also lack wings, antennae, and compound eyes. Individual spider mites are almost microscopic, yet when they occur in large numbers, they can cause serious damage. Dozens of species attack shade trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants.
Apr 22, 2022
444-221 (ENTO-502NP)
T.A. Dellinger
Eric R. Day
Alejandro Del-Pozo
Tarnished Plant Bug
Tarnished Plant Bug
(PDF)
Dec 22, 2021
444-227 (ENTO-476NP)
T.A. Dellinger
Eric R. Day
Cabbage and Seedcorn Maggot
Cabbage and Seedcorn Maggots
(PDF)
Mar 25, 2022
444-231 (ENTO-495NP)
T.A. Dellinger
Eric R. Day
European Corn Borer
Feb 4, 2019
444-232
Eric R. Day
Rod R. Youngman
Catalpa Sphinx Caterpillar
Catalpa Sphinx Caterpillar
(PDF)
Apr 15, 2022
444-247 (ENTO-497NP)
T.A. Dellinger
Eric R. Day
Cereal Leaf Beetle, Biology and Management
Cereal leaf beetle, a native to Europe and Asia, was first detected in Michigan in 1962. Since that time it has spread throughout most of the mid-western and eastern United States and has become a significant pest of Virginia and North Carolina small grains. This insect can become very numerous in small grain fields and the larvae are capable of reducing grain yield by eating the green leaf tissue.
May 12, 2020
444-350
D. Ames Herbert
John W. VanDuyn
Field Guide to Stink Bugs
Field Guide to Stink Bugs
(PDF)
Field Guide to Stink Bugs of Agricultural Importance in the United States
Oct 2, 2025
444-356 (ENTO-68)
D. Ames Herbert
Katherine Kamminga
Sean Malone
Thomas P. Kuhar
Eric R. Day
Jeremy Greene
C. Scott Bundy
Lydia Brown
Peter Ellsworth
Second Edition Mid-Atlantic Guide to the Insect Pests and Beneficials of Corn, Soybean, and Small Grains
Second Edition Mid-Atlantic Guide to the Insect Pests and Beneficials of Corn, Soybean, and Small Grains
(PDF)
Dec 19, 2023
444-360 (ENTO-575P)
D. Ames Herbert
Sean Malone
Managing Stink Bugs in Cotton: Research in the Southeast Region
Nov 13, 2018
444-390
Jack Bacheler
Eric Blinka
Jeremy Greene
D. Ames Herbert
Sean Malone
Phillip Roberts
Ron H. Smith
Michael Toews
John Van Duyn
Using Pitfall Traps to Monitor Insect Activity
Feb 4, 2019
444-416
Curt Laub
Kenner Love
Timothy Mize
Rod R. Youngman
Asparagus Beetles
Asparagus Beetles
(PDF)
Sep 29, 2022
444-620 (ENTO-521NP)
Kyle M. Bekelja
Thomas P. Kuhar
Eric R. Day
Stink Bugs
Stink Bugs
(PDF)
Sep 16, 2022
444-621 (ENTO-517NP)
Kyle M. Bekelja
Eric R. Day
Corn Earworm Biology and Management in Soybeans
Corn earworm, Helicoverpa zea, is the most common and destructive insect pest of soybeans grown in Virginia. Although infestation severity varies, about one-third of our acreage is treated annually. This costs farmers 1.5 to 2 million dollars annually, and requires the application of many pounds of insecticide to crop lands. We may never eliminate this pest from Virginia soybeans, but knowledge of the biology and use of best management practices can help limit insecticide controls to those fields that meet economic threshold criteria. This publication provides current information on corn earworm biology, prediction of outbreaks, pest advisories, scouting procedures, and recently revised economic thresholds.
May 12, 2020
444-770
D. Ames Herbert
Cathy Hull
Eric R. Day
2026 Pest Management Guide - Field Crops
2026 Pest Management Guide - Field Crops
(PDF)
The Virginia Pest Management Guide (PMG) series lists options for management of major pests: diseases, insects, nematodes, and weeds. These guides are produced by Virginia Cooperative Extension and each guide is revised annually. PMG recommendations are based on research conducted by the Research and Extension Division of Virginia Tech, in cooperation with other land-grant universities, the USDA, and the pest management industry.
Jan 20, 2026
456-016 (ENTO-633NP)
Theirry Besançon
Tim Bryant
Charlie Cahoon
Rakesh Chandran
John Currin
Eric R. Day
Gillian Eastwood
Michael Flessner
W. Hunter Frame
Daniel Frank
Doug Higgins
David Jordan
Alyssa Koehler
Thomas P. Kuhar
Vipan Kumar
David Langston
Dwight Lingenfelter
Sean Malone
Kathleen Miller
Kathryn Payne
Arash Rashed
T. David Reed
Vijay Singh
Mark VanGessel
Kurt Vollmer
John Wallace
James M. Wilson
Yuan Zeng
Joshua Mott
2026 Spray Bulletin for Commercial Tree Fruit Growers
2026 Spray Bulletin for Commercial Tree Fruit Growers
(PDF)
This guide contains information on pesticides used in orchards, with a seasonal treatment of when and how these materials should be employed. Efficacy information toward major fruit pests as well as beneficial species is included.
Jan 29, 2026
456-419 (ENTO-638P)
Daniel Frank
Douglas G. Pfeiffer
Kevin B. Rice
James M. Wilson
Carlos Quesada
Cerruti R. R. Hooks
Sherif M. Sherif
Srdjan Acimovic
Mahfuz Rahman
James B. Kotcon
Jeffrey Derr
Rakesh Chandran
James A. Parkhurst
Taste of Farming: Integrated Pest Management Basics
Taste of Farming: Integrated Pest Management Basics
(HTML)
Apr 1, 2022
ALCE-296-6
Laura Maxey-Nay
Sarah Sharpe
Katie Trozzo
Kim Niewolny
Information for New Pesticide Applicators
Information for New Pesticide Applicators
(HTML)
Apr 19, 2023
ALCE-307NP
Mike Parrish
Sarah Sharpe
Katie Trozzo
Kim Niewolny
Commercial Chinese Chestnut Production in Virginia
Commercial Chinese Chestnut Production in Virginia
(PDF)
The mighty American chestnut tree (Castanea dentata [Marsh], Borkh.) was once a dominant figure in hardwood forests throughout the eastern United States. An iconic source of food, chestnuts were sold by the ton every year, until the chestnut blight nearly brought this tree crop to extinction in the early to mid-20th century.
Feb 1, 2023
ANR-279P
Adrian Ares
Katie E. Commender
John F. Munsell
Poultry Parasites: Northern Fowl Mites
Poultry Parasites: Northern Fowl Mites
(PDF)
Northern fowl mites (Ornithonyssus sylviarum) are one of the more common ectoparasites (external parasites) that can be present in a poultry flock. This publication discusses detection, prevention, and treatment options
Oct 11, 2023
APSC-190P
Leonie Jacobs
Asian Longhorned Tick and Theileria Orientalis Ikeda: Current Thoughts and Understandings
Asian Longhorned Tick and Theileria Orientalis Ikeda: Current Thoughts and Understandings
(PDF)
This project will be used to disseminate current thoughts and understand the invasive species of Asian Longhorned Tick (ALT) and the spread of Theileria. The Asian Longhorned Tick is a new invasive species that was first found in the US in 2017 and has since spread to 19 states from the Atlantic Coast to the Southeastern region of the US. The ALT is credited with the widespread of Theileria. Theileria is a blood protozoa parasite that has had a negative impact on cattle producers across the state. This article is what we currently understand about the ALT and the spread of Theileria.
Nov 30, 2023
APSC-196P
John Currin
Kevin Lahmers
Gillian Eastwood
Eric R. Day
T.A. Dellinger
Lisa Ellis McCormick
2026 Southeastern U.S. Vegetable Growers Crop Handbook
2026 Southeastern U.S. Vegetable Growers Crop Handbook
(PDF)
This handbook represents a joint effort among Extension specialists and researchers from 15 land-grant universities in the U.S. who work in the area of vegetable production. These specialists and researchers represent a wide array of disciplines: agricultural engineering, agribusiness, entomology, food safety, horticulture (vegetable production), plant pathology, postharvest physiology, soil science, and weed science.

This handbook comprises up-to-the-minute information developed from research and Extension projects conducted throughout the southeastern United States. The key idea behind this handbook is to provideyou with a practical resource that conveniently fits on your dashboard. It contains the information that you need to manage your vegetable crops, including which varieties to plant, planting dates, fertilizer recommendations, cover crop selection and conservation tillage options, pesticide selection, grafting, fertigation, plasticulture, postharvest handling, alternative pest management tools and suggestions, as well as many other topics.
Jan 16, 2026
AREC-66 (SPES-771NP)
Mark Reiter
Thomas P. Kuhar
Kemper Sutton
Laura K. Strawn
Doug Higgins
Steve Rideout
Vijay Singh
Soybean Insect Guide
Numerous kinds of insects can be found in soybeans. Most are beneficial
or harmless, but some can cause yield loss and even crop failure if not
controlled.
Mar 20, 2019
AREC-68NP
D. Ames Herbert
Sally V. Taylor
Sugarcane Beetle, Euetheola humilis
Sugarcane Beetle, Euetheola humilis
(PDF)
Sugarcane beetle is a sporadic but serious pest of several crops in Virginia. Although an occasional pest, outbreaks can lead to substantial losses in crops and property damage. It can cause significant damage to corn, sugarcane, rice, sweetpotato, and turfgrass, and has also been reported on strawberry, cotton, rose, and wild grasses. Populations in southern states may flare to levels that become a nuisance as it gathers at light sources. Its life cycle spans one generation per year, with adults becoming active in late spring. These beetles primarily feed on plant roots and management involves cultural practices and chemical control, focusing on targeting adult beetles to reduce crop damage. Further research is needed to develop effective pest management strategies that rely less on chemical control tactics.
Jun 6, 2024
ENTO-13NP (ENTO-595NP)
Ben Aigner
Katlyn Catron
Sudan Gyawaly
Curt Laub
Rod R. Youngman
Cluster Fly
Cluster Fly
(PDF)
Adult cluster flies are medium-sized, robust, somewhat bristly flies about 7 mm (0.3 inches) long.
Feb 2, 2021
ENTO-136NP (ENTO-410NP)
T.A. Dellinger
Eric R. Day
Locust Borer
Locust Borer
(PDF)
The locust borer is a native insect that attacks black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia L.) and its ornamental cultivars. Adult locust borers are conspicuous black and yellow beetles with long black antennae and reddish legs. There is a yellow W-shaped band across the wing covers with other yellow stripes.
Feb 12, 2021
ENTO-141NP (ENTO-423NP)
T.A. Dellinger
Eric R. Day
Galls and Rust made by Mites
Galls and Rusts Made by Eriophyid Mites
(PDF)
Nov 29, 2022
ENTO-532NP
Eric R. Day
T.A. Dellinger
Alejandro Del-Pozo
Yellow Poplar Weevil
Yellow Poplar Weevil
(PDF)
Rice-shaped holes about 1/16 inches result from adult feeding. Larval feeding forms mines, usually two per leaf. If they are both on the same side of midrib, one is extensive, and the other dwarfed. If the insect lays eggs on opposite sides of the midrib, both mines develop normally.
Oct 20, 2025
ENTO-172NP (ENTO-380NP)
Eric R. Day
T.A. Dellinger
Benefits of an Insecticide Seed Treatment for Pumpkin Production in Virginia
Benefits of an Insecticide Seed Treatment for Pumpkin Production in Virginia PDF
(PDF)
In recent years cucurbit growers in the Mid-Atlantic U.S. could purchase their seeds pre-treated
with the neonicotinoid insecticide thiamethoxam. The insecticide seed treatment is currently
packaged as FarMore F1400, which also includes three proven and complementary fungicides
that provide the first line of defense against several key seed and seedling diseases including
Rhizoctonia, Fusarium, Pythium, general damping-off and seedling blight.
Dec 21, 2015
ENTO-174NP
Thomas P. Kuhar
James M. Wilson
Spotted Lanternfly
Spotted Lanternfly, Lycorma delicatula (White) (Hemiptera: Fulgoridae)
(PDF)
Spotted lanternfly (SLF) was first detected in Virginia in 2018. SLF is native to China and is also found in India, Japan, Korea, and Vietnam. Researchers believe SLF likely arrived from Asia through commercial trade, possibly two years earlier than when it was first detected. SLF continues to spread through Virginia and the eastern US. It is highly invasive and can spread rapidly when introduced into new areas. The invasiveness of SLF is attributed to its wide host plant range and a lack of natural enemies in invaded areas.
Aug 21, 2025
ENTO-180NP (ENTO-614NP)
Douglas G. Pfeiffer
Eric R. Day
Phillip A. Sisti
Hag Moth Caterpillar
Hag Moth Caterpillar
(PDF)
Jan 10, 2023
ENTO-19NP (ENTO-541NP)
Eric R. Day
T.A. Dellinger
Hickory Horned Devil
Hickory Horned Devil
(PDF)
Jan 5, 2023
ENTO-20NP (ENTO-540NP)
T.A. Dellinger
Eric R. Day
Mosquitos and their Control
Mosquitoes and Their Control
(PDF)
The key to controlling mosquitoes is removing the standing or stagnant water where they live.
Dec 21, 2021
ENTO-202NP (ENTO-470NP)
T.A. Dellinger
Eric R. Day
Sally Paulson
Dini Miller
Velvet Ants
Velvet Ants
(PDF)
Jan 6, 2023
ENTO-22NP (ENTO-539NP)
T.A. Dellinger
Eric R. Day
Springtails
Springtails
(PDF)
Jan 6, 2023
ENTO-23NP (ENTO-538NP)
T.A. Dellinger
Eric R. Day
Economic Pests of Turfgrass
Enhanced digital version
(HTML)
Dec 16, 2022
ENTO-237NP
Rick L. Brandenburg
Katherine Kamminga
Thomas P. Kuhar
Curt Laub
David J. Shetlar
Silverfish and Firebrats
Silverfish and Firebrats
(PDF)
Jan 6, 2023
ENTO-24NP (ENTO-537NP)
T.A. Dellinger
Eric R. Day
Survey of Pest Management Practices of Virginia Sweet Corn Growers – 2017
Dec 5, 2017
ENTO-248NP
Jason Cooper
Ursula T. Deitch
Helene Doughty
John Few
Thomas P. Kuhar
Kenner Love
Laura Maxey-Nay
Steve Pottorff
Stephanie Romelczyk
Laura Siegle
Janet L. Spencer
Mark Sutphin
Pest Alert: Spotted Lanternfly Identification and Reporting in Virginia
Pest Alert: Spotted Lanternfly Identification and Reporting in Virginia
(PDF)
Jul 7, 2022
ENTO-265NP (ENTO-513NP)
Eric R. Day
T.A. Dellinger
Corn earworm monitoring in commercial sweet corn fields in Virginia – 2017
Mar 5, 2018
ENTO-266NP
Katlyn Catron
Jason Cooper
Ursula T. Deitch
Helene Doughty
John Few
Thomas P. Kuhar
Kenner Love
Steve Pottorff
Stephanie Romelczyk
Laura Siegle
Mark Sutphin
Flea Beetles Attacking Brassica Plants in Virginia
Mar 27, 2018
ENTO-267NP
Thomas P. Kuhar
James A. C. Mason
Flea Beetles Attacking Eggplant in Virginia
Apr 11, 2018
ENTO-270NP
James A. C. Mason
Thomas P. Kuhar
Possible Spotted Lanternfly Egg Mass Look-alikes in Virginia
Possible Look-alikes of Spotted Lanternfly Egg Masses in Virginia
(PDF)
Mar 1, 2023
ENTO-276NP (ENTO-547NP)
T.A. Dellinger
Eric R. Day
Possible Spotted Lanternfly Immature Look-alikes in Virginia
Possible Immature Spotted Lanternfly Look-alikes in Virginia
(PDF)
Mar 2, 2023
ENTO-277NP (ENTO-546NP)
T.A. Dellinger
Eric R. Day
Possible Spotted Lanternfly Adult Look-alikes in Virginia
Possible Spotted Lanternfly Adult Look-alikes in Virginia
(PDF)
Mar 2, 2023
ENTO-278NP (ENTO-545NP)
T.A. Dellinger
Eric R. Day
Asian Longhorned Tick
Asian Longhorned Tick
(PDF)
May 26, 2023
ENTO-282NP (ENTO-560NP)
T.A. Dellinger
Eric R. Day
Asian Needle Ant
Asian Needle Ant
(PDF)
Mar 14, 2023
ENTO-29NP (ENTO-554NP)
T. Michael Likins
Eric R. Day
Insecticide and Acaricide Research on Vegetables in Virginia -2018
Feb 13, 2019
ENTO-301NP
Thomas P. Kuhar
Helene Doughty
Western Corn Rootworm
Feb 15, 2019
ENTO-302NP
Kyle M. Bekelja
Thomas P. Kuhar
Sally V. Taylor
Kudzu Bug, Megacopta cribraria, a pest of soybeans
Kudzu Bug, Megacopta cribraria, a pest of soybeans
(PDF)
The kudzu bug (Megacopta cribraria) is an invasive pest from Asia and first appeared in the U.S. in 2009 near Atlanta, Georgia. It has since spread to 18 additional states and the District of Columbia, threatening soybean crops. Recognizable by their mottled dark green and brown coloration, adult kudzu bugs are shield bugs that exude a pungent defensive substance when disturbed. Adults and nymphs feed on plant phloem, causing both direct and indirect damage to plants. Despite initial concerns, populations only occasionally reach damaging levels, but monitoring and management remain crucial. The kudzu bug has two generations per year, with adults emerging from overwintering in early spring. Management includes chemical control with pyrethroids and neonicotinoids, biological control with parasitoid wasps and the fungus Beauveria bassiana, and cultural control by reducing kudzu patches. Here we detail the bug's distribution, life cycle, pest status, and management strategies, highlighting the importance of ongoing vigilance and integrating management tactics.
Jul 12, 2024
ENTO-303NP (ENTO-597NP)
Kadie Britt
Sally V. Taylor
Ben Aigner
Katlyn Catron
Thomas P. Kuhar
Brown Stink Bug in Field Corn
Feb 20, 2019
ENTO-307NP
Sally V. Taylor
Tim Bryant
What Virginians Need to Know About the 2022 Spotted Lanternfly Quarantine Expansion
Jul 7, 2022
ENTO-319NP (ENTO-512NP)
T.A. Dellinger
Eric R. Day
Ciclo de Vida en Virginia de Spotted Lanternfly (Mosca de Alas Manchadas)
Ciclo de Vida en Virginia de Spotted Lanternfly
(PDF)
Ciclo de vida de la mosca linterna moteada. La mosca linterna moteada (SLF) inverna en una masa de huevos (líneas diagonales) que comienza con un color gris brillante, pero rápidamente se vuelve gris parduzco opaco. Los huevos eclosionan entre finales de abril y principios de mayo, y las ninfas (barras rojas) permanecen hasta finales de julio, cuando se convierten en adultas (barras amarillas). Los adultos comienzan a poner huevos en septiembre. Las etapas de vida pueden solaparse y, según la época del año, pueden presentarse varias etapas simultáneamente.
Aug 21, 2025
ENTO-320NP (ENTO-613NPs)
Eric R. Day
Douglas G. Pfeiffer
T.A. Dellinger
Mark Sutphin
Beth Sastre
Residential Control for Spotted Lanternfly (SLF) in Virginia
Spotted Lanternfly (SLF) has quickly established itself as an agricultural pest, feeding mostly on grapes and fruit trees, but is also known to feed on many species of hardwoods. As a result, SLF has become a large residential pest where it is established.
Aug 9, 2019
ENTO-322NP
Andy Dechaine
Eric R. Day
Douglas G. Pfeiffer
Mark Sutphin
Control de la Mosca Linterna con Manchas (Spotted Lanternfly- SLF) en Hogares de Virginia (Residential Control for Spotted Lanternfly in Virginia)
Spotted Lanternfly (SLF) se ha establecido rápidamente como una plaga agrícola, alimentándose principalmente de uvas y árboles frutales, al igual que de muchas especies de maderas duras. Como resultado, en cualquier que SLF se ha establecido, se ha convertido en una gran plaga residencial.
Aug 29, 2019
ENTO-322S
Eric R. Day
Douglas G. Pfeiffer
Mark Sutphin
Beth Sastre
Spotted Lanternfly in Virginia Vineyards: Lycorma delicatula (White)
Spotted Lanternfly in Virginia Vineyards: Lycorma delicatula (White)
(PDF)
Spotted lanternfly is an invasive pest that is continuing expansion through Virginia. It now occupies the entire Shenandoah Valley and most of the Piedmont. It can be extremely damaging in vineyards, potentially killing vines. This fact sheet discusses its management in vineyards.
Feb 24, 2025
ENTO-323NP (ENTO-606NP)
Douglas G. Pfeiffer
Eric R. Day
T.A. Dellinger
Mark Sutphin
Mosca Linterna con Manchadas (Spotted Lanternfly) en Viñedos de Virginia: Lycorma delicatula (White)
Mosca Linterna con Manchadas (Spotted Lanternfly) en Viñedos de Virginia: Lycorma delicatula (White)
(PDF)
Después de varios años de propagación continua en Pensilvania, la mosca linterna con manchas (por sus siglas en ingles “SLF”; Foto. 1) en enero de 2018 se encontró por primera vez en Winchester, Virginia. La zona de infestación inicial (primavera de 2018) incluía aproximadamente 1 milla cuadrada.
Feb 24, 2025
ENTO-323s (ENTO-606NPs)
Douglas G. Pfeiffer
Eric R. Day
T.A. Dellinger
Andy Dechaine
Mark Sutphin
Beth Sastre
Mexican Bean Beetle
This publication reviews the biology and management of Mexican bean beetle, an herbivorous lady beetle (Coccinellidae) that feeds on bean crops (legumes).
Aug 30, 2019
ENTO-326NP
Louis Nottingham
Thomas P. Kuhar
Corn earworm, Helicoverpa zea, a pest of hemp, Cannabis sativa, in Virginia
Sep 5, 2019
ENTO-328NP
Kadie Britt
Sally V. Taylor
Thomas P. Kuhar
Tarnished Plant Bug
This publication has information regarding tarnished plant bug (Lygus lineolaris) biology, identification, and management in field crop systems.
Aug 30, 2019
ENTO-329NP
Sally V. Taylor
Seth Dorman
Sugarcane Aphid in Virginia Sorghum
Sep 12, 2019
ENTO-334NP
Katlyn Catron
Thomas P. Kuhar
Sally V. Taylor
Best Management Practices for Spotted Lanternfly in Yards and Landscapes
Best Management Practices for Spotted Lanternfly in Yards and Landscapes
(PDF)
Spotted lanternfly (SLF) can be successfully controlled with best management practices in yards, landscapes, and other public areas where it is a nuisance. The key to success depends on the use of effective chemicals or biological controls and the proper timing of application.
Oct 20, 2025
ENTO-344NP (ENTO-636NP)
Eric R. Day
Mark Sutphin
T.A. Dellinger
James A. C. Mason
Managing the Asian Longhorned Tick: Checklist of Best Practices for Equines
Managing the Asian Longhorned Tick: Checklist of Best Practices for Equines
(PDF)
While primarily a concern on cattle, Asian longhorned tick (ALT) feeds on a variety of hosts, including horses and other equines. ALT reproduces without mating so tick densities can build quickly, and large numbers of ALT can be found on individual animals. ALT larvae, nymphs, and adults may all be found at the same time on the same animal. Wildlife, such as deer, small mammals, and birds, serve as alternative hosts for ticks and assist their spread throughout pastures. Managing ALT can be very difficult because this tick spends most of its life off the host and on the ground. The following recommendations are suggested to help protect your animals.
Jul 23, 2025
ENTO-348NP (ENTO-619NP)
T.A. Dellinger
Eric R. Day
Integrated Pest Management of Hemp in Virginia
Integrated Pest Management of Hemp in Virginia
(PDF)
Hemp is a new crop to Virginia agriculture and available information about pest management and general crop production is lacking. This guide compiles the current known information about pest (insect and mite, disease and pathogen, and weed) management and crop production for hemp grown in Virginia. This is a first version and updates will occur in the future.
Apr 24, 2025
ENTO-349NP
Kadie Britt
J.H. Fike
Michael Flessner
Charles S. Johnson
Thomas P. Kuhar
Tim McCoy
T. David Reed
Identification and Management of Spotted-Wing Drosophila in Virginia Berry Crops
Identification and Management of Spotted-Wing Drosophila in Virginia Berry Crops
(PDF)
This fact sheet contains information on pest status, identification and management of spotted-wing drosophila, a major invasive pest of small fruits and cherries. Recommendations are provided to avoid the development of insecticide resistance.
Jul 2, 2025
ENTO-387NP (ENTO-612NP)
Douglas G. Pfeiffer
Best Management Practices for Spotted Lanternfly on Christmas Tree Farms
Best Management Practices for Spotted Lanternfly on Christmas Tree Farms
(PDF)
Feb 15, 2021
ENTO-402NP
Eric R. Day
T.A. Dellinger
Kyle Peer
Insect Identification Lab
Welcome to the Insect Identification Laboratory at Virginia Tech. The Insect Identification Lab covers all insects found in all situations and commodities in Virginia. This diagnostic lab started in 1967 and is a service for Extension Agents and Citizens of Virginia.
Oct 10, 2024
ENTO-45NP
Eric R. Day
Red Headed Flea Beetle in Virginia Nurseries
Red Headed Flea Beetle in Virginia Nurseries
(PDF)
Dec 21, 2021
ENTO-464NP
Eleanor Lane
Alejandro Del-Pozo
Potato Leafhopper
Potato Leafhopper
(PDF)
Jan 12, 2022
ENTO-474NP
T.A. Dellinger
Eric R. Day
Avoiding Fire Ant Stings
Avoiding Fire Ant Stings
(PDF)
Imported fire ants (Solenopsis invicta and its hybrids) have been found in Virginia since 1989 and are an increasing concern as they expand their range in Virginia. Imported fire ants swarm and attack aggressively when their colony is disturbed. Pheromones released by fire ants quickly alert colony members to the threat, leading to a mass attack and many stings by the defending ants. Physical reactions to fire ant venom will vary with a person’s sensitivity. Some people may require medical treatment after being stung by fire ants.
Apr 12, 2024
ENTO-481NP (ENTO-591NP)
T.A. Dellinger
Eric R. Day
Spotted Lanternfly Life Cycle in Virginia (Ciclo de Vida en Virginia de Spotted Lanternfly)
Spotted Lanternfly Life Cycle in Virginia
(PDF)
Spotted Lanternfly Life Cycle. The Spotted Lanternfly (SLF) overwinters in an egg mass (diagonal lines) that begins shiny gray but quickly turns to a dull brownish gray. The eggs hatch late April to early May and the nymphs (red bars) are present until late July when they become adults (yellow bars). Adults start to lay eggs in September. The life stages can overlap and, depending on the time of year, multiple stages can be found at the same time.
Aug 21, 2025
ENTO-268NP (ENTO-613NP)
Eric R. Day
Douglas G. Pfeiffer
T.A. Dellinger
Mark Sutphin
Beth Sastre
Redheaded Ash Borer
Redheaded Ash Borer
(PDF)
Mar 5, 2021
ENTO-142NP (ENTO-428NP)
T.A. Dellinger
Eric R. Day
Emerging Tick-Borne Arboviruses: Powassan virus, Heartland virus, and Bourbon virus
Emerging Tick-Borne Arboviruses: Powassan virus, Heartland virus, and Bourbon virus
(PDF)
Mar 21, 2022
ENTO-491NP
Ahmed Garba
Gillian Eastwood
Red Imported Fire Ant Farmer Self-Inspection Checklist
Red Imported Fire Ant Farmer Self-Inspection Checklist
(PDF)
Mar 8, 2022
ENTO-493NP
Eric R. Day
Identification and Life Cycle of Spotted Lanternfly in Virginia
Identification and Life Cycle of Spotted Lanternfly in Virginia
(PDF)
Mar 18, 2022
ENTO-268NP (ENTO-494NP)
Eric R. Day
T.A. Dellinger
Douglas G. Pfeiffer
Mark Sutphin
Tick-Borne Diseases in Virginia
Tick-Borne Diseases in Virginia
(PDF)
May 16, 2022
ENTO-504NP
Alexandra Cumbie
Gillian Eastwood
Box Tree Moth in the United States
Box Tree Moth in the United States
(PDF)
Oct 31, 2022
ENTO-525NP
Elidah Sisk
Julie Brindley
Alejandro Del-Pozo
Fire Ant Management for Livestock Producers: Hayfields and Pastures
Fire Ant Management for Livestock Producers: Hayfields and Pastures
(PDF)
Imported fire ants (Solenopsis invicta and its hybrids) are an increasing concern for farming operations as they expand across Virginia. To slow the spread of imported fire ants, the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services and the US Department of Agriculture have set a Federal Fire Ant Quarantine over much of the southeastern portion of the state. The FFAQ does not currently include all the localities in Virginia known to have imported fire ants and will likely be expanded in the future.
Apr 23, 2024
ENTO-527NP (ENTO-590NP)
T.A. Dellinger
Eric R. Day
Cryptomeria Scale on Christmas Trees
Juniper and Cryptomeria Scales in Landscapes
(PDF)
Mar 13, 2023
ENTO-551NP
T.A. Dellinger
Eric R. Day
Elongate Hemlock Scale on Christmas Trees
Elongate Hemlock Scale on Christmas Trees
(PDF)
Mar 17, 2023
ENTO-552NP
T.A. Dellinger
Eric R. Day
Survey of Insecticide Efficacy on Three-Cornered Alfalfa Hopper
Survey of Insecticide Efficacy on Three-Cornered Alfalfa Hopper
(PDF)
Apr 12, 2023
ENTO-555NP
Sierra Bradley
Thomas P. Kuhar
Diamondback Moth Mating Disruption
Diamondback Moth Mating Disruption
(PDF)
Diamondback moth has become one of the hardest lepidopteran "worm" pests to control globally due to insecticide resistance. Mating disruption is an effective pesticide-free strategy for managing this pest of cabbage, broccoli, collards, and other brassica crops.
Aug 25, 2023
ENTO-571NP
Taylore Sydnor
Thomas P. Kuhar
Alejandro Del-Pozo
Japanese Maple Scale: A Pictorial Guide for Identification
Japanese Maple Scale: A Pictorial Guide for Identification
(PDF)
The Japanese maple scale is an armored scale, considered a key pest, causing the nursey industry significant losses due to direct injury or plant rejection. Identify JMS can be difficult due to their biology. This factsheet serves as a pictorial guide to provide key features of this insect.
Aug 24, 2023
ENTO-572NP
Alejandro Del-Pozo
Mollie Wyatt
Hybrid Fire Ants in Virginia
Hybrid Fire Ants in Virginia
(PDF)
Native to South America, both red imported fire ant (RIFA, Solenopsis invicta) and black imported fire ant (BIFA, Solenopsis richteri) have been found in the US since the 1930s. Imported fire ants are now widespread across the southern US and have been reported in Virginia since 1989. RIFA and BIFA hybridize and produce fertile offspring in areas of the US where both species are found. The S. invicta x richteri hybrid fire ant zone in the US includes Georgia, Alabama, central Mississippi, and Tennessee. Recently in 2022, hybrid ants were detected for the first time in Virginia in Lee County and in several nearby counties in southeastern Kentucky. Hybrid fire ants are well established in eastern Tennessee as well.
May 16, 2024
ENTO-593NP
T.A. Dellinger
Eric R. Day
Amy Byington
Allium Leafminer in Virginia
Allium Leafminer in Virginia
(PDF)
Allium Leafminer (ALM) (Phytomyza gymnostoma), an invasive pest first detected in the United States in 2015, has spread through onion-growing regions in the Northeast and Midwest. This pest targets commercial alliums such as onions, garlic, leeks, chives, and shallots, causing significant injury to crops.
Apr 18, 2025
ENTO-609NP
Grace Stern
Kemper Sutton
Thomas P. Kuhar
Sean Boyle
Asiatic Garden Beetle in Cotton
Asiatic Garden Beetle in Cotton
(PDF)
This publication on Asiatic garden beetle provides an overview of the insect, identification characteristics, and management recommendations for this pest in cotton.
Apr 29, 2025
ENTO-610NP
Sean Malone
Tim Bryant
Two-Spot Cotton Leafhopper Pest Alert
Two-Spot Cotton Leafhopper Pest Alert
(PDF)
This publication is to alert clientele to be on the lookout for a federally regulated pest, the two-spot cotton leafhopper, which was discovered in the mainland United States in 2024 and was found in a North Carolina county bordering Virginia in 2025. It provides information on pest identification, plant injury symptoms, scouting, and what to do if one suspects they have found the two-spot cotton leafhopper.
Feb 12, 2026
ENTO-639NP
Tim Bryant
Stacy Endriss
Sean Malone
Dylan Lockwood
David Gianino
Corn Earworm Moth Tracker
Corn Earworm Moth Tracker
(HTML)
Corn earworm threatens crops like soybeans, cotton, peanuts and specialty produce across Virginia. Most arrive via annual migrations from the south. Thanks to support from the Virginia Soybean Board, pheromone traps were deployed statewide in 2025 to track moth flights. The new Corn Earworm Moth Tracker helps users to anticipate pest outbreaks — reducing crop damage and unnecessary pesticide use. Support for trap deployment and monitoring has been made possible by the assistance of Virginia Cooperative Extension Agents Neil Clark, C. Taylor Clarke, Elizabeth Cooper, Jason Cooper, Helene Doughty, Roy Flanagan, Trent Jones, Grace Kunkel, Rosemary Life, Robbie Longest, Mike Parrish, Theresa Pittman, Livvy Preisser, James Reiter, Stephanie Romelczyk, Sara Rutherford, Nathan Sedghi, Mackenzie VanLandingham, and Megan Williams; along with support from Thomas Kuhar, Professor, Entomology, Virginia Tech; and Kemper Sutton, Assistant Professor and Extension Specialist, Entomology, Eastern Shore Agricultural Research and Extension Center, Virginia Tech.
Feb 24, 2026
ENTO-642NP
Tim Bryant
Sean Malone
Chris Mitchell
Mixed Infection of Strawberry Mottle Virus and Strawberry Mild Yellow Edge Virus in the Southeastern United States
Mixed Infection of Strawberry Mottle Virus and Strawberry Mild Yellow Edge Virus in the Southeastern United States
(PDF)
Apr 17, 2023
HORT 268P (SPES-488P)
Jayesh Samtani
Charles S. Johnson
Roy Flanagan
Keith Starke
Barclay Poling
Robert Martin
Emerald Ash Borer
The emerald ash borer (Agrilus planipennis Fairmaire) is a wood-boring beetle native to eastern Asia and is now considered the most destructive forest pest ever seen in North America. Since its discovery in Michigan in 2002, it has killed tens of millions of native ash (Fraxinus spp.) trees in the United States and Canada. This destruction has already cost municipalities, property owners, and businesses tens of millions of dollars in damages.
May 10, 2020
HORT-69NP
David Close
Eric Wiseman
Sarah Gugercin
Harvest Weed Seed Control
Harvest Weed Seed Control
(PDF)
Combine harvesters can disperse weed seed, spreading them within a field and from field to field. Harvest Weed Seed Control (HWSC) is a method of weed control that concentrates, removes, or kills weed seeds that are retained on weed plants at the time of crop harvest. HWSC can be used to reduce the soil seedbank and thus future weed problems. It can also aid in herbicide resistance management, by killing or removing seeds produced by weeds that have escaped herbicidal control. This publication overviews current options to adopt HWSC and research results from Virginia.
Apr 21, 2025
SPES-135NP (SPES-680NP)
Michael Flessner
Eli Russell
Common Ragweed (Ambrosia artemisiifolia) Control in Soybeans
Jun 6, 2019
SPES-143NP
Eric Scruggs
Shawn Beam
Michael Flessner
Insecticide and Acaricide Research on Vegetables in Virginia -2017
Dec 17, 2018
SPES-85NP
Helene Doughty
Thomas P. Kuhar
Weed Management Planner - Before Planting
Aug 2, 2023
SPES-268NP (SPES-506NP-A)
Michael Flessner
Kevin Bamber
Rakesh Chandran
Thomas E. Hines
Quintin Johnson
Dwight Lingenfelter
Claudio Rubione
Lovreet Shergill
Mark VanGessel
Kurt Vollmer
Vijay Singh
Weed Management Planner - After Planting
Weed Management Planner - After Planting
(PDF)
Feb 13, 2024
SPES-268NP (SPES-570NP-B)
Michael Flessner
Kevin Bamber
Rakesh Chandran
Thomas E. Hines
Quintin Johnson
Dwight Lingenfelter
Claudio Rubione
Lovreet Shergill
Mark VanGessel
Kurt Vollmer
Vijay Singh
Protective Agriculture Production Series: Plant density recommendations
Protective Agriculture Production Series: Plant density recommendations
(PDF)
Feb 2, 2023
SPES-474NP
Emmanuel Torres Quezada
Lorena Lopez
2022 Potato Industry Status at the Eastern Shore of Virginia
2022 Potato Industry Status at the Eastern Shore of Virginia
(PDF)
This document provides an overview of the potato industry's status in 2022, including key statistics such as acreage, cultivar selection methods, planting practices, and pest control measures. The challenges faced by potato farmers in the region are also discussed, including issues related to fertilization, labor, pests, and market conditions. Additionally, the document outlines the research priorities identified by potato farmers, focusing on soil analysis, weather data accessibility, and irrigation management. It emphasizes the importance of research and innovation for the sector's future growth. Lastly, the document explores communication preferences among potato farmers, highlighting their preference for email and annual conferences as effective means of information exchange.
Oct 23, 2023
SPES-522NP
Emmanuel Torres Quezada
Alexis Suero Mirabal
Ursula T. Deitch
Theresa Pittman
Fire Blight of Rosaceous plants Caused by Erwinia amylovora
Fire Blight of Rosaceous plants Caused by Erwinia amylovora
(PDF)
Fire blight is one of the most damaging bacterial diseases that affects major pome fruit trees, causing high economic losses. It was first noticed in the Hudson Valley up-state New York in 1780 and has spread to the entire North American continent since then. It is endemic to Virginia consistently threatening apple and pear orchards across the state. The causal agent of this detrimental disease is a Gram-negative rod-shaped bacterium Erwinia amylovora. The most distinctive symptoms of the disease include wilting and blackening of flowers, shoots, twigs and foliage that appear as if it has been swept by fire, giving rise to the name ‘fire blight’. The principal pome fruits affected are from the Rosaceae family, such as apple (Malus x domestica), pear (Pyrus communis), Asian pear (P. pyrifolia), and quince (Cydonia oblonga). The fire blight pathogen overwinters primarily inside cankers on infected host plants, which are dead elliptical to irregular patches of bark on perennial wood of branches, central leader, trunk or rootstock. The bacteria spread from active symptoms on the plant or contaminated flowers through non-pollinating and pollinating insects, birds, wind and rain during the flowering and shoot growth periods. E. amylovora primarily enters host plants through nectarthodes (nectaries) of flowers, with mechanical openings like pruning wounds, breakage or abrasions serving as additional important infection pathway. Fire blight outbreaks significantly devalue the orchard, interrupts fruit production and/or reduces the crop yield and price, leading to severe economic losses. Several cultural and chemical management practices have been adopted to manage the pathogen. However, in the last 20 years, managing fire blight has been challenging due to frequently occurring favorable weather conditions during bloom and shoot growth, thus propelling multiple infection periods which are difficult to prevent.
Mar 19, 2026
SPES-778NP
Srdjan Acimovic
Matheus Correa Borba
Nathanial Boeckman
Shabneek Kaur
Kyle Miller
Calonectria blight of containerized nandina nursery stock
Calonectria blight of containerized nandina nursery stock
(PDF)
Calonectria diseases cause significant economic losses in the ornamental horticultural industry worldwide (Aiello et al. 2022). In 2024 and 2025, Calonectria spp. were isolated from leaf spots, stem cankers, stem dieback, and necrotic roots of containerized Nandina domestica (nandina/heavenly bamboo) nursery stock from 11 nurseries in 11 Virginia counties. The fungus was confirmed from 7 N. domestica cultivars: Blush Pink, Fire Power, Gulf Stream, Harbour Dwarf, Lemon Lime, Moon Bay, and Obsession.
Mar 6, 2026
SPES-784NP
Bily Devin
Chuanxue Hong
Lina Rodriguez Salamanca
Kameron Kilday
Weed Management Strategies in Potato
Weed Management Strategies in Potato
(PDF)
The Accomack and Northampton counties in the Eastern Shore of Virginia produce about 80% of Virginia’s total potato crop (Northampton County, 2023). Keeping the weeds under check is one of most important prerequisites in achieving satisfactory potato yields. Weed infestation and herbicide resistance are continuously haunting the growers owing to the lesser number of viable herbicide options than before. The menace of weeds in the upcoming season depends to a larger extent on the practices being followed over the previous years and can be prevented by certain practices planned well in advance.
Mar 18, 2026
SPES-791NP
Akash Brar
Vijay Singh
Corn Wireworms
Corn Wireworms
(PDF)
Wireworms are the larval stage of click beetles and major subterranean pests that damage crops including corn, potatoes, and small grains. Corn wireworms, including Melanotus communis, are common to the southeastern United States and feed on seeds, roots, and other underground portions of plants, causing poor plant establishment and reduced crop quality. Their multi-year larval stage and soil-dwelling behavior make monitoring and control difficult, though bait and pheromone traps can help to assess populations. Management relies on tillage practices, limited biological controls, and preventative insecticide treatments. Newer insecticide chemistries show promise, but their long-term effectiveness and risks are still being evaluated.
Apr 22, 2026
SPES-806NP
Hannah Swarm
Thomas P. Kuhar
VCE Ag Today - Soybean Arthropod Pest Management
Video
(HTML)
Apr 9, 2021
VCE-1027-17NP
Sally V. Taylor
Laura Maxey-Nay
Robby Longest
Stephanie Romelczyk
Trent Jones
Mike Broaddus
VCE Ag Today: Row Crop Insect and Disease Update
Apr 1, 2021
VCE-1027-35
David Langston
Sally V. Taylor
Pesticide Applicator Manuals
Dec 17, 2021
VTTP-2
Dana Beegle