Project Number: 6615-22000-022-10
Project Type: Specific Cooperative Agreement

Start Date: Mar 12, 2008
End Date: Feb 28, 2010

Objective:
To develop novel sustainable programs to manage thrips and thrips vectored tomato spotted wilt virus, one of the key pest complexes of vegetable crops in the southern USA. Specifically we will integrate the use of two types of naturally occurring crop protectants, kaolin particle film coatings and plant essential oils, into a more environmentally benign and sustainable pest management programs for vegetable growers.

Approach:
1. We will conduct field trials to determine the effects of essential oils and kaolin on thrips populations and incidence of tomato spotted wilt disease. 2. We will conduct laboratory assays to assess the toxicity, repellency, and the feeding and oviposition deterrence of different rates and combinations of essential oils and kaolin, and adapt field applications based on laboratory tests. 3. We will demonstrate research findings to end users through various outreach activities.