Soybean Looper Thresholds and Insecticide Recommendation
Find this article at:
go.ncsu.edu/readext?547511
go.ncsu.edu/readext?547511
Soybean loopers have already shown up in coastal counties in higher numbers than usual. As this generation cycles through, we are seeing the next generation showing up in full force as we slide into September. Almost without exception, the fields where I have seen loopers at high levels have been behind pyrethroid or organophosphate sprays (bifenthrin and Orthene being the most common examples). Be sure to watch these fields carefully.

Loopers start feeding on the bottom of the plant and move up. You must push insecticide down into the canopy. Pyrethroids kill natural enemies. Since loopers are tolerant of pyrethroids, when used alone, they can flare loopers after treatment (see graphs below for how loopers can be flared with bifenthrin and Besiege). This year, as in previous years, the most consistently effective insecticide we have tested is Intrepid Edge. Be sure to use 5 or more ounces.