Page 20 - Griffin Gazette Issue 1 - 2019

Scouting

tips

for detecting root aphid

and other problems in

CEA crops

By Moriah LaChapell, CEA GGSPro Technical Specialist
Root aphids are difficult to detect with be finding pests in the early stages of plant growth if populations become out
routine crop work, and can easily be infestation. of control. Therefore, it's important to
overlooked if only the foliage is scouted scout for stunted plants and unexplained
for pests. An active scouting program Scouting involves inspecting the crop wilting. Frequently check plants by
of both the plant tops and roots is for all life stages of pests and monitoring removing the pot and examining the
the presence of beneficial insects or
warranted, especially for CEA crops roots. Root aphids may be found both
which tend to be long-term crops. Active mites. After the scouting is completed, on the roots and along the sides of
scouting encourages early diagnosis and the information must be recorded to pots. Ants cultivate and protect root
treatment of root aphid infestation, which provide a clear, accurate picture of the aphids. Ants in containers may indicate
prevents more extensive problems from pest occurrence and extent of damage. the presence of root aphids. Winged
Accurate records will also help to
developing and helps to avoid the need adults can be trapped on yellow sticky
to destroy valuable plants. identify patterns in pest populations and cards. Winged root aphids look similar
common routes of spread. For example, to fungus gnats, but root aphids have
Root aphids and other pests require aphids can migrate from heavily infested cornicles and larger bodies compared to
consistent monitoring as an effective plants in pots to ebb and flow trays and fungus gnats. Scouts should be trained
strategy for early detection. A dedicated then to other pots. After evaluation of to recognize these pests on cards.
person is needed to take ownership pest levels, an informed decision can be
of scouting. The scout could be an made to treat for the pest. Some basic scouting principals can be
employee or a contracted, professional Symptoms of root aphid infestation applied to all crops and all insect and
horticulturist. No matter the background include yellowing, wilting, and stunted mite pests.
of the scout, the top priority should

SCOUTING PATTERN

Inspect in a zig zag pattern along the bench or growing
area, checking from the roots to the top of the plants.
This sampling method provides a survey of the crop
and eliminates the need to inspect every plant. Train
all employees to recognize the key pests and diseases
occurring on crops to support designated scouts as an
extra set of eyes while they're tending the crops.
Scouting Pattern, NYS IPM Program:
Scouting pattern down aisles and between benches

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