Substitutes for Tartar Emetic and Brown Sugar in the Control of the Gladiolus Thrips

Abstract

Field sprays against Taeniothrips simplex, containing 2 lb. tartar emetic with 4 lb. brown sugar per 100 gals, were equal to other combinations containing corn sirup, cane molasses, or blackstrap molasses diluted to give equivalent sugar contents. Na antimony lactophenolate (8 lb.) with the same sugars was nearly as effective. One qt. of 40% nicotine sulfate with corn sirup, cane sirup, maple sirup, or honey was highly effective but gave poor control with blackstrap molasses or cane molasses. Pb arsenate (3 lb. or 6 lb.) with the same sweetening agents was less effective than tartar emetic and nicotine, injured the foliage and reduced corm production. Paris green (0.4 lb.) with 3 gals, corn sirup or 2 qts. blackstrap molasses was highly effective. No effective substitute for sugar or the above named poisons were found. Na benzoate added to sprays containing nicotine or tartar emetic sprays and blackstrap molasses prevented development of sooty mold on foliage.