Recently we published information on a new invasive pest knocking on the door of North Carolina. Unfortunately this pest has now arrived in Robeson County and, likely, Scotland County cotton.

What we have seen

The field in Robeson County had open bolls in the bottom of the plant and was likely past the stage where the insect could hurt the crop. Adult and immature cotton jassids were relatively easy to find.

Injury was easy to find in the field, but was confined to only a few leaves on a few plants.

A few cotton jassid nymphs were also present in a Scotland County cotton field. They were not numerous and the field wasn't showing any signs of injury.

So far, we have not seen any fields that could benefit from treatment.

What to do

This article covers what crops are at risk, how to recognize injury, current scouting thresholds, and management outlook. Stay alert for signs of hopper burn. If you suspect cotton jassid in your fields, contact your county Extension office immediately so samples can be confirmed. Early detection will help Extension and growers respond quickly and effectively.

States where the insect is established are using preliminary thresholds of 1–2 nymphs per leaf or presence of jassids along with hopper burn symptoms. Scout 3-5 leaves from the top.

Based on Extension trials in Alabama, Georgia, and South Carolina, Bidrin at 6 oz is affordable, consistent, and effective. DO NOT SPRAY UNTIL THE INSECT IS IDENTIFIED IN YOUR FIELD. We think that cotton is safe from this insect once it reaches 20-25% cracked bolls and uppermost harvestable bolls are fully mature.