Tobacco Hornworm Control with Organic Insecticides

Abstract

The importance of the tobacco hornworm, Protoparce sexta (Johan.), the use of such materials as lead arsenate and cryolite for its control in the past, and the need for new control remedies are discussed. Results are given of control expts. at Florence, S. C, with TDE, Toxaphene, endrin, CS-708, CS-728, metacide, Ryania, and EPN plus methoxychlor. Toxaphene was very toxic to hornworm larvae, but it caused an objectionable flavor and aroma to cigarettes made from the treated tobacco. TDE dusts and sprays were effective against hornworms, safe for use on tobacco foliage, and did not adversely affect the flavor and aroma of the tobacco (except where emulsifiable concentrates contained petroleum distillates). An endrin emulsion applied as a high-volume spray was highly toxic to hornworm larvae and was much quicker in its lethal action than TDE, CS-708, or CS-728.