Management strategies for tarnished plant bug (Lygus lineolaris) in the mid-south cotton belt

The tarnished plant bug, Lygus lineolaris [Palisot de Beauvios], is the most important pest of cotton in the Mid-South. Although feeding can occur at any growth stage, economic damage typically occurs when the pest is feeding directly squares, flowers, and fruit. Each year, a vast amount of insecticide applications are required in the Mid-South to control this pest. Many research efforts have gone into determining the effects of cotton agronomic practices, such as planting date, leaf pubescence, and nitrogen rate on the tarnished plant bug. The objective of this research was to combine multiple best management practices to determine if we can reduce the reliance on chemical insecticides to manage this pest.