Pesticide Usage Patterns and Associated Pest Damage in Commercial Apple Orchards of Pennsylvania1

Abstract

Pesticide usage patterns were examined in 20 and 16 commercial apple orchards in Pennsylvania during 1978 and 1979, respectively. The alternate-row middle system of spraying was the predominant method of application being used in 95% of the sprays during the 2-year period. Azinphosmethyl and methomyl were the most frequently used insecticides, whereas benomyl and captan were the most frequently used fungicides. Cyhexatin was the predominantly used acaricide. The most prevalent injuries to the fruit were caused by the leafroller, Platynota idaeusalis (Walker), and the sooty blotch fungus, Gloeodes pomigena (Schw.) Colby. Estimated savings in pesticide costs from all Pennsylvania orchards using integrated pest management tactics were $1.9 and $2.2 million annually for 1978 and 1979, respectively.