The goal of the project is to evaluate the impact of the timing and number of insecticide treatments on the vector (Myzus persicae) of the yellowing viruses in sugar beet.

Myzus persicae does not cause direct damage to sugar beets, but it is a vector for the two yellowing viruses, BYV and BChV, which can lead to significant yield losses if beet fields are infected on a large scale. Insecticides are highly effective in limiting vector pressure, and, when applied early, limit the spread of the viruses in the field.

It is difficult to estimate how many applications are necessary to minimize yield losses, as pest pressure, disease pressure, and crop development depend on many different factors. In this project, three possible spraying regimes are being tested in field trials to determine the extent of the applications’ impact on yield and sugar content, and whether there is potential to reduce the number of insecticide applications as a result.