Control of the potato leafhopper, Empoasca fabae (Harris), and the influence of leafhopper populations on peanut yields in Virginia

Abstract

New and standard pesticides applied to peanuts (Arachis hypogaea L.) in Virginia were evaluated for control of the potato leafhopper. Leafhopper populations on test plots were monitored throughout 1975 and 1976 using a 12-inch sweep net. Grade, yield, and value data were collected from all experiments. Significant reductions of leafhopper populations were achieved with a broad range of chemicals. In many instances, the pesticidal activity of the test materials was not significantly affected by reducing their rate of application. Despite heavy leafhopper populations and injury levels during the two seasons, regression analyses demonstrated a lack of association between peanut values (dollars per acre) and potato leafhopper infestations or injury. Controlling the leafhopper did not significantly affect peanut values.