Exploring a Biological Alternative for Tomato spotted wilt virus Control in Tobacco
Applied Research
Kimberly Post
County Extension Agent
University of Georgia
Lakeland
Abstract
The leading tobacco disease in Georgia is spotted wilt caused by Tomato spotted wilt virus (TSWV). TSWV is transmitted mainly by tobacco thrips (Frankiella fusca) in tobacco. TSWV leads to leaf necrosis and yield losses. Actigard® and imidacloprid have been used as pre-transplant seedling treatments in the majority of Georgia tobacco since 2006, resulting in 50% average reduction of spotted wilt. SP2700 (Ninja) has been utilized for viral control in tobacco and other plant species outside the United States. The primary objective of the trial was to test the efficacy of SP2700 (Ninja) as a biological alternative or accompanying treatment for TSWV control in Georgia tobacco production. Treatments were combinations of Actigard®, imidacloprid, and Ninja at fixed days pre-transplant (7 or 3d) and post-transplant (7, 28, and 49d). TSWV was significantly reduced by treatments which included either Actigard® and imidacloprid or imidacloprid and Ninja in the greenhouse prior to transplanting. Late application of imidacloprid following multiple applications of Ninja in the greenhouse and field did not significantly improve TSWV control compared to the non-treated check. Overall TSWV pressure was relatively low compared to other growing seasons and may have limited the ability observe trends in spotted wilt control between treatments. Continued investigation of Ninja for TSWV control in tobacco is recommended.
Poster has NOT been presented at any previous NACAA AM/PIC
This poster is being submitted for judging. It will be displayed at the AM/PIC if not selected as a State winner. The abstract will be published in the proceedings.
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Authors: Kimberly Post, J. Michale Moore
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Post, K. County Extension Agent, University of Georgia, Georgia, 31635
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Moore, J. Extension Agronomist, University of Georgia, Georgia, 31793