As with many processing crops, insect contamination of and damage on heading Brassica oleracea cultivars is a primary determinant of insect pest management programs. Decision rules for pest management must take these concerns into account for both indirect and direct pests. Control windows estimated to prevent diamondback moth pupal contamination of broccoli have been estimated through simulation modeling studies and used to guide control strategies. Examples of host plant resistance, biological control, physical control and legislative control can be cited in commercial use for these processing crops. Varietal susceptibility to onion thrips has been the most effective control for decades to protect processing cabbage from thrips injury. Use of Bacillus thuringiensis consistently provides control of lepidopteran pests that is leveraged by conservation of natural enemies. Postharvest handling that removes insect contamination can significantly reduce the need for control in the field. Legal tolerances for insect contamination of processed product also significantly impact control requirements. Although chemical control remains a cornerstone of pest management programs in these crops, particularly where very low population densities must be maintained to prevent contamination, insecticide resistance management must accompany their use for a sustainable production system. We will review the recommendations and progress for resistance management in the Bajio broccoli production area of Mexico.
Keywords: FQPA, vegetables
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