Effect of planting date on insect and bird damage among grain sorghum hybrids

Twenty-five commercial grain sorghum hybrids were evaluated for insect and bird damage across three planting dates in 2013 and 2014.  The experiment was planted at one-week interval utilizing a randomized complete block design with four replications.  Grain losses by kernel-feeding insects (e.g., sorghum webworm and sorghum midge) and birds were rated separately.  Damage ratings of these pests were conducted pre-harvest at 14 wk after each planting.  Grain losses caused by insect and bird feeding were compared among the hybrids and planting dates, respectively.  Sugarcane aphid damage was rated in 2014 when its infestation occurred for the first time in Georgia.  Results and discussion will focus on using host plant resistance and planting date as an integrated pest management strategy to maximize grain production.