Idaho, Oregon Growers Given Alert

Growers in the Treasure Valley of Idaho and Oregon have been given an alert for powdery mildew in their beets. While mildew has not yet been found in the Treasure valley, the modes of action of the mildew chemistries work best if treatments are applied before mildew is even found in the field. Dennis Searle, Amalgamated Sugar Company agronomist, is recommending mildew applications in the west end of the valley by July 5. In the east end aplications should be made no later than July 10. Searle says treatments should be made by these dates regardless of whether or not a field or surface are sprinkler-irrigated. He also said loopers and worms are being found in fields. He advises growers to be on the look out for these pests. Searle says in many cases an insecticide can be tank-mixed with a mildew treatment. Growers are advised to contact their field representative from Amalgamated Sugar Company for additional advice.