April 2016 - Southeastern Peanut Farmer by SEPF

Inside: n n

Disease Guidebook Insect Guidebook

A communication service of the Southern Peanut Farmers Federation.

Contents April 2016

Joy Carter Crosby Editor joycrosby@gapeanuts.com 229-386-3690

The Florida Peanut Producers Association held their 41st annual meeting recently where they elected new board members, received reports from the National Peanut Board and presented the Outstanding Young Peanut Farmer Award.

Director of Advertising Jessie Bland jessie@gapeanuts.com Contributing Writers John Leidner johnleidner@bellsouth.net Teresa Mays Teresa2@alpeanuts.com Southeastern Peanut Farmer P.O. Box 706, Tifton, Ga. 31793 445 Fulwood Blvd., Tifton, Ga. 31794 ISSN: 0038-3694 Southeastern Peanut Farmer is published six times a year (Jan./Feb., March, April, May/June, July/Aug., and Oct./Nov.) by the Southern Peanut Farmers Federation. The publisher is not responsible for copy omission, typographical errors, or any unintentional errors that may occur, other than to correct it in the following issue. Any erroneous reflection which may occur in the columns of Southeastern Peanut Farmer will be corrected upon brought to the attention of the editor. (Phone 229-3863690.) Postmaster: Send address changes (Form 3579) to Southeastern Peanut Farmer, P.O. Box 706, Tifton, Georgia, 31793. Circulation is free to qualified peanut growers and others allied to the industry. Periodical postage paid at Tifton, Georgia and additional mailing office. Editorial Content: Editorial copy from sources outside of the Southern Peanut Farmers Federation is sometimes presented for the information and interest of our members. Such material may, or may not, coincide with official Southern Peanut Farmers Federation policies. Publication of material does not necessarily imply its endorsement by the Southern Peanut Farmers Federation. For editorial concerns call 229-386-3690. No portion of this or past issues of the Southeastern Peanut Farmer may be reproduced in any form whatsoever without the written consent of the editor. By-lined articles appearing in this publication represent views of the authors and not necessarily those of the publisher. Advertising: The Publisher reserves the right to refuse any advertisement. Corrections to advertisements must be made after the first run. All billing offers subject to credit review. Advertisements contained in this publication do not represent an endorsement by the Southeastern Peanut Farmer or the Southern Peanut Farmers Federation. Use of trade names in this publication is for the purpose of providing specific information and is not a guarantee nor warranty of products named. For advertising concerns call 229-386-3690.

Florida Peanut Producers Association holds annual meeting

2016 Disease Guidebook The 2016 Southeastern Peanut Farmer’s Disease Guidebook features information on management of leaf spot, southern blight, fungicide resistance, disease control on a budget, and research updates on new products.

2016 Insect Guidebook The 2016 Southeastern Peanut Farmer’s Insect Guidebook features information on scouting peanuts, spider mites, three cornered alfalfa hoppers, thrips, burrower bugs and leaf loss studies.

Departments: Checkoff Report .................................................................................. 8 Alabama Peanut Producers Association, Florida Peanut Producers Association, Georgia Peanut Commission and Mississippi Peanut Growers Association

Washington Outlook ............................................................................ 21 Southern Peanut Growers Update ........................................................ 22 Cover Photo: Mark Abney, University of Georgia Extension peanut entomologist, discusses the importance of scouting peanuts at a field day. Photo by Joy Crosby.

April 2016 Southeastern Peanut Farmer

Editorial

Calendar of Events

Promoting Our Crop - The Peanut nother National Peanut Month is in the books and the industry did a great job of promoting peanuts and peanut butter to consumers. Through a variety of methods, industry organizations were able to reach out to consumers, food enthusiasts, chefs, nutritionist and more. I even noticed many farmers taking part in activities by sharing items on their personal social media pages. As one planning various events throughout the month of March for National Peanut Month, this makes me proud. During the month of March, the findings of a new study conducted by The Bantam Group, on behalf of the National Peanut Board, were released during National Peanut Month. The research from the study showed that:  Peanut butter and peanuts are the No. 1 and No. 2 most consumed for both Millennials and the General Market. The findings are in line with USDA’s Economic Research Service data, which shows peanuts are the most consumed nut in America.  Half of Millennials surveyed eat peanut butter at least once a week, and say they are more likely to eat peanuts and peanut butter on a daily basis  Millennials are also significantly less likely than the General Market to eat peanut butter on a sandwich with bread or on crackers. Instead, they are more likely to eat peanuts and peanut butter in non-traditional ways such as in smoothies and sauces In the press release issued by the National Peanut Board, Bob Parker, president and CEO of NPB had this to say, “This study confirmed what we continue to see every day. No matter how old we are, our love for peanuts and peanut butter is as strong as ever. It also showed that Millennials are more aware and informed about the food they choose to consume, and they eat peanuts and peanut products for their nutritional benefits, versatility and great taste.” Studies such as this one, help us see where we are and the difference we are making as we promote our crop here in the U.S. and abroad. As we continue our efforts through promotional efforts, I urge you to stay informed so when you have the opportunity to promote peanuts at a local school, fair, festival or other event, you are ready and armed with the knowledge to help continue to increase consumption. The Bantam study surveyed 750 Millennials (ages of 18-37) and 750 General Market consumers who have eaten peanuts or other peanut products ― and/or purchased any of them for someone in their household ― at least once in the past month. In addition to the promotion of peanuts, the industry continues to step up by supporting Peanut Proud, the humanitarian relief organization. Peanut Proud continues to lead the way in donating peanut butter to food banks for special events and those in disaster situations. During the month of March, peanut butter was donated to food banks in Georgia and Virginia. An additional donation was made to food banks in Louisiana due to the recent flooding in the area. All of these donations would not be possible without the support from individuals, organizations, businesses and more. So, if you have not made a donation to Peanut Proud yet, then I encourage you to visit their website at peanutproud.com and do so. t Joy Carter Crosby

Editor

Southeastern Peanut Farmer April 2016

u USA Peanut Congress, June 25-29, 2016, Charleston Place Hotel, Charleston, S.C. For more information visit peanut-shellers.org or call 229-888-2508. u American Peanut Research Education Society Annual Meeting, July 12-14, 2016, Hilton Clearwater Beach, Clearwater, Fla. For more information visit apresinc.com or call 229-329-2949. u Sunbelt Ag Expo Field Day, July 14, 2016, Moultrie, Ga. For more information visit sunbeltexpo.com or call 229-985-1968. u Southern Peanut Growers Conference, July 21-23, 2016, Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, Miramar Beach, Fla. For more information visit southernpeanutfarmers.org or call 229-386-3470. u American Peanut Shellers Association and National Peanut Buying Points Association Pre-Harvest Meeting, Aug. 2-3, 2016, Lake Blackshear Resort and Golf Club, Cordele, Ga. For more information visit peanut-shellers.org or call 229-888-2508.

u Brooklet Peanut Festival, Aug. 20, 2016. For more information visit the festival’s website at brookletpeanutfestival.com. u Georgia Peanut Tour, Sept. 13-15, 2016, Tifton, Ga. and surrounding area. For more information visit the tour blog at georgiapeanuttour.com. u Plains Peanut Festival, Sept. 24, 2016. For more information visit plainsgeorgia.com. u Central Florida Peanut Festival, Oct. 1, 2016, Williston, Fla. For more information visit willistonfl.com. u Georgia Peanut Festival, Oct. 15, 2016, Sylvester, Ga. For more information visit gapeanutfestival.org. u Sunbelt Ag Expo, Oct. 18-20, 2016, Moultrie, Ga. For more information visit sunbeltexpo.com or call 229-985-1968.

u Georgia Farm Bureau Annual Meeting, Dec. 3-5, 2016, Jekyll Island, Ga. For more information visit gfb.org. (Let us know about your event. Please send details to the editor at joycrosby@gapeanuts.com.

Georgia Peanut Commission increases research funding for 2016 The commission approves $423,036 in peanut research projects he Georgia Peanut Commission (GPC) board of directors has approved $423,036 in research project funding for the 2016-17 research budget year. This action was taken during the commission’s March board meeting. The research projects approved include 30 project proposals submitted from the University of Georgia and USDA Agricultural Research Service. “We are proud of our close relationship and partnership with research institutions in the state,” says Donald Chase, GPC Research Committee chairman. “Peanut growers are pleased to invest in the future by providing monetary support for research and education that has continued to demonstrate a return on our investment. Due to the continuing success enjoyed by Georgia peanut

farmers over the past few years, we were able to increase research funding again for 2016.” Georgia’s peanut growers invest $2 per ton annually toward GPC programs which includes research, promotion and education. Research comprises 22 percent of available funds in the commission’s budget. The research programs Bill Branch, University of Georgia peanut breeder, discusses primarily focus on peanut some of his research on new varieties funded by the Georgia breeding for higher yield and Peanut Commission during a field day. improved quality; economics; complete list of the research projects conservation methods; irrigation and funded by the Georgia Peanut water management; pests, weed and Commission visit www.gapeanuts.com. t disease management; and peanut allergy research. BY JOY CROSBY For additional information and a

April 2016 Southeastern Peanut Farmer

Hitchcock family compete in National Young Farmers Awards Congress ashington County farmers James and Brooke Hitchcock were among the top 10 finalists from the nation that competed at the 60th annual National Young Farmers Awards Congress in Cincinnati, Ohio. This is the oldest farmer recognition program in the United States. The program is sponsored by John Deere, administered by the Outstanding Farmers of America and supported by the U.S. Jaycees and the National Association of County Agricultural Agents. James and Brooke were nominated by Brent Allen, Washington County Extension Agent, and were named the Outstanding Young Farmer of the Year by the Georgia Association of County Agricultural Agents in November 2015. Their application was also submitted to the national competition where they were selected as one of the 25 semi-finalists

and then as one of the top 10 finalists in the nation. Each step in the process required a lengthy application that looked at details of the farming operation, conservation efforts and community involvement. This competition did not just look at the size of the operation but included an evaluation of how well rounded the individuals were. James and Brooke Hitchcock of Tennille, Georgia, are the parents of Moriah, JW and Samuel and farm in partnership with his father, Waylon and brother, Jonathan. They currently farm over 2,000 acres of row crops which includes corn, cotton, peanuts and soybeans. They also have a 200 plus head herd of beef cattle and a bottle calf operation. James serves on the Farm Service Agency County Committee (committee chair), Washington County Farm Bureau Board of Directors, Washington County

James and Brooke Hitchcock were recently named one of the top 10 finalists in the National Young Farmers Awards Congress.

Cattlemenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Association Board of Directors and the Washington County Extension Advisory Committee. James and Brooke are also very active members of Friendship Baptist Church. t BY BRENT ALLEN WASHINGTON CO. EXTENSION COORDINATOR

USDA seeks nominees for Peanut Standards Board The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) is seeking nominations for peanut producers and industry representatives to serve on the Peanut Standards Board. The board consists of 18 members with representation equally divided between peanut producers and industry representatives. Representation is divided among three regions: the Southeast (Alabama, Georgia, and Florida), the Southwest (Texas, Oklahoma, and New Mexico), and Virginia/North Carolina. Each region has three producer seats and three industry representative seats with staggered 3-year terms. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack will appoint one producer and one industry representative from each region to succeed members whose terms expire on June 30, 2016. The six new members will serve terms ending on June 30, 2019. The 2002 Farm Bill established the Peanut Standards Board to consult with USDA regarding quality and handling standards for domestically produced and imported peanuts. The board plays a key role in representing the U.S. peanut industry on issues affecting quality and marketability. Nominations are due by May 2, 2016. For nominating forms and additional board information, call 863-837-1551 or visit: www.ams.usda.gov/PeanutStandardsBoard.

Southeastern Peanut Farmer April 2016

Florida Peanut Producers Association holds 41st Annual Membership Meeting large crowd of farmers and their families attended the 41st Annual Membership Meeting of the Florida Peanut Producers Association recently held in Marianna, Florida. The evening’s events included the election of three directors, FPPA and National Peanut Board activities report and the presentation of the Florida Young Peanut Farmer award. James Marshall, Baker, Florida, was elected to serve a three-year term on the FPPA board during the annual meeting. He replaces Nick Marshall, Baker, Florida, who retired due to term limits. Members also reelected Jerry Mills Jr., Morriston, Florida, and Bud Baggett, Marianna, Florida, to serve another 3-year term. The FPPA officers elected include President - Andy Robinson, Williston,

Andy Robinson, FPPA president, presents Nick Marshall of Baker, Fla., with a plaque in recognition of his dedicated service while serving on the FPPA Board of Directors for the past six years.

Florida, Vice President - Michael Davis, Graceville, Florida and Sec./Treas. David DeFelix, Campbellton, Florida. Jeffrey Spencer, a Farm Credit of Florida representative presented the Young Peanut Farmer of the Year Award to Blaire Colvin of Micanopy, Florida. Colvin has been involved in the family farm since she was a child. The minute her legs were long enough to reach the clutch her father Danny had her move from riding the fender to being an operator whether it be tillage work or picking peanuts. She worked on the farm for many years growing up and was involved in many jobs on the farm related to peanut production.

Following high school graduation, she began pursuing an undergraduate degree in Agronomy at the University of Florida. During her undergraduate degree Colvin was active in many agricultural student organizations on campus. She served as president of the Agronomy & Soils Club, president of the Professional Agricultural Sorority Sigma Alpha, she was a College of Agricultural and Life Jeffrey Spencer, (left) Farm Credit of Florida representative, Sciences Ambassador, and presents the Farm Credit/FPPA Young Peanut Farmer Award to Blaire Colvin of Micanopy, Fla., during FPPA’s annual meeting. a member of the Agricultural Honors society Pictured left to right: Spencer, Colvin and Andy Robinson, president of the Florida Peanut Producers Association. Alpha Zeta. Through all of these vesting, etc.) along with her father Danny organizations Colvin actively advocated Colvin. This coming year Colvin Farms for and educated others about Florida will grow 600 acres of high oleic peanuts, agriculture and specifically Florida peanut 250 acres of snap beans, and 250 acres of production. In addition to her involvement carrots. in student organizations, Colvin was also She has just recently started pursuing actively involved in practical agricultural her doctorate degree in Agronomy and research aimed at solving problems that hopes to use the combination of her scienFlorida growers face. She worked on tific knowledge gained at the University many projects focused on peanut maturity of Florida and her practical real life and production. knowledge gained on the family peanut She then continued her education and farm to continue to grow her own operareceived her Master’s degree in tion and to help other farmers in the state Agronomy from the University of Florida increase productivity and face the many in 2015. During her Master’s she worked challenges to come in agriculture. t on a variety of practical research projects BY KEN BARTON designed to address challenges facing peanut growers in the Southeast. During all of her schooling she was still actively working on the family farm. After the completion of her master’s degree she became an official co-owner of the family business and currently manages all aspects of the operation Members of the Florida Peanut Producers Association board. Pictured left to right: Joe Tillman, Altha; Michael Davis, Graceville; Bud (employees, equipment, Baggett, Marianna; Andy Robinson, Williston; Jerry Mills Jr., Morriston; planting, irrigation, fer- David DeFelix, Campbellton; and Chuck Hatch, Branford tilization, spraying, har- Not pictured are: Steven Godwin, Jay; and James Marshall, Baker. April 2016 Southeastern Peanut Farmer

Checkoff Report Investments Made by Growers for the Future of the Peanut Industry.

March - National Peanut Month promotions across the Southeast Georgia Peanut Commission promotes peanuts The Georgia Peanut Commission (GPC) promoted peanuts throughout the month of March through a variety of promotions including a twitter party, media tours, PB&J Day, welcome center promotion and more. To kick off National Peanut Month, GPC sponsored a Twitter party through Foodiechats. The event provided GPC an opportunity to reach consumers, food enthusiThe Twitter party generated an asts, chefs, nutritionists and more through an hour long Q&A party on estimated 1.7 million impressions. Twitter. The event focused on #PeanutPrower with 1,309 tweets and an estimated 1.7 million impressions. The GPC also teamed up with Parker Wallace, an Atlanta based food enthusiast and chef, for a media tour in six cities throughout Georgia. Parker is creator of What’s on Parker’s Plate and she demonstrated a variety Parker Wallace, (right) proof peanut inspired meals for breakfast, lunch, ducer of What’s on Parkers Plate, is interviewed by dinner and snack on television stations in Atlanta, Augusta, Savannah, Columbus, Albany Karla Heath-Sands, anchor for WALB’s Today in and Macon, Georgia. Georgia show in Albany. The annual Georgia PB&J Day was held March 16, at the Georgia State Capitol in Atlanta. Exhibitors from the peanut industry served PB&Js, grilled PB&Js, country-fried peanuts, boiled peanuts and more. During the special program celebrating National Peanut Month, Sen. John Wilkinson, chairman of the Senate Agriculture and Consumer Affairs Georgia Peanut Commission Committee, and Rep. Tom McCall, chairman and Peanut Proud donated of the House Agriculture and Consumer Affairs 10,080 jars of peanut butter Committee, presented resolutions highlighting to the Atlanta Community the importance of peanuts to Georgia’s econo- Food Bank. my. The GPC and Peanut Proud donated 10,080 jars of peanut butter to the Atlanta Community Food Bank to celebrate National Peanut Month and National Nutrition Month during the annual PB&J Day. Tourists traveling throughout Georgia were able to learn more about the importance The Georgia Peanut of peanuts to Georgia’s economy by stopping Commission exhibited at by one of the 11 visitor information centers the Peanut Proud Expo. entering the state. The GPC provided the visitor information centers with peanuts and recipes to give to tourists as they stopped to learn more about Georgia. The GPC also exhibited at the Georgia Ag Awareness Day at the State Capitol and the Peanut Proud Festival in Blakely, Georgia. View photos from all National Peanut Month events at gapeanuts.com.

Southeastern Peanut Farmer April 2016

Mississippi Peanut Growers Association celebrates National Peanut Month The Mississippi Peanut Growers Association celebrated March - National Peanut Month by donating peanut product gift baskets to five television stations across the state. This donation led to numerous on-air interviews at the stations for Malcolm Broome, Steve Schill, (left) of WCBI in MPGA executive director. Columbus, Miss., interviews Malcolm The stations included Broome, (right) MPGA executive director, about peanuts and National morning shows in Peanut Month. Columbus and Meridian, midday show in Jackson, and the 4 p.m. show on the Gulf Coast. “It continues to amaze me how many people don’t know how peanuts are grown, and even that they produce the nuts underground,” Broome says. “This is the fourth year for this program which received publicity for the Mississippi Peanut Growers Association and information on peanut production and new peanut products, all at a cost the association would not be able to purchase.” Broome reports getting emails and telephone calls following the programs asking questions from how to grow peanuts, didn’t know they were so healthy, to where can I find more information on peanuts.

Alabama Peanut Growers Association celebrates National Peanut Month The Alabama Peanut Producers Association (APPA) celebrated March – National Peanut Month with a variety of promotions during the entire month. In addition to posting photos and information on social media, APPA staff members appeared on various radio and television stations promoting the health benefits of peanuts as well as the farmers that grow them. Peanut gift baskets from APPA were also given away at the participating media outlets.

Following a live interview on WOOF-FM 99.7 in Dothan, Ala. are (L-R) John Houston, WOOF 99.7 radio morning host, Caleb Bristow, APPA executive director, and Derrick Jonzun, weekend DJ.

Reports from the: Alabama Peanut Producers Association Florida Peanut Producers Association Georgia Peanut Commission Mississippi Peanut Growers Association

APPA exhibits at Alabama Food Service and Nutrition Exposition The Alabama Peanut Producers Association (APPA) recently participated in the 38th Alabama Food Service and Nutrition Exposition held in Montgomery, Alabama, on March 11, 2016. The theme for this year’s event was “Home Grown Healthy” and featured a special VIP breakfast sampling. As part of the morning segment, APPA staff grilled peanut butter and jelly sandwiches for foodservice professionals to taste. Teresa Mays, APPA information “People are more likely to consume fresh fruits and specialist, exhibits at the Alabama Food Service and Nutrition Expo vegetables when they are of high quality,” says Margetin Montgomery, Ala. Ann Leonard, chairman of the 2016 expo. “When they are well-nourished, children learn better.” Leonard also explained that currently, there are several organizations working to connect farmers to markets for their products. “Whether it’s direct to the consumer, through restaurants or with buyers for schools, hospitals and other institutions, the time is now for home grown healthy,” Leonard says. The meeting is sponsored each year by the Alabama Association of Nutrition and Foodservice Professionals, the Alabama Dietetic Association and the Alabama School Nutrition Association.

Georgia Peanut Commission exhibits at Atlanta Motor Speedway The Georgia Peanut Commission (GPC) promoted peanuts at the Folds of Honor QuikTrip 500. During the race weekend, GPC distributed 22,500 packs of Georgia peanuts and information to race fans. David Ragan, Georgia native and driver of the number 23 car, stopped by the GPC exhibit to sign autographs during events on David Ragan, signs autographs at the Friday, Feb. 26. In Georgia Peanut Commission exhibit in addition to the the Fan Zone during race weekend at exhibit, the GPC the Atlanta Motor Speedway. will promote peanuts year-round at the Atlanta Motor Speedway The Georgia Peanut Commission billwith a billboard and digital signage at the entrance to board at the Atlanta Motor Speedway. the speedway.

APPA donates gift baskets for Azalea Dogwood Pageant The 52nd Annual Azalea Dogwood Pageant, sponsored by Dothan Leisure Services and the National Amanda Goforth, Peanut Festival, administrative secrewas held tary for Dothan Saturday, March Leisure Services, is 19, at the Dothan pictured with the baskets donated by Opera House in Dothan, Alabama. APPA. There were three areas of competition: Maid of Honor, Princess and Queen. Contestants must maintain a “C” or above scholastic average. Winners in each of the three categories received a large peanut gift basket from the Alabama Peanut Producers Association.

APPA exhibits at career day More than 600 high school students from a seven county area in southeast Alabama attended an Ag Career Day recently held at Landmark Park in Dothan, Alabama. Numerous company representatives were on hand to educate the students on a wide variety of professions related to agriculture. The Alabama Peanut Producers Association exhibited at the one day event.

Florida Peanut Producers Association open scholarship program The Florida Peanut Producers Association announces the opening of their 2016 Scholarship Award Program. Two $1,200 scholarships will be awarded to deserving high school seniors and/or college students. The applicant or someone in the applicant’s family must be an actively producing peanut grower, not necessarily a member of the FPPA. It is the intent of the Scholarship Award Committee, however, that the award recipients attend a Florida junior college or four-year university. For an application contact the FPPA office at 2741 Penn Avenue, Suite 1, Marianna, Florida, 32448, call 850-526-2590 or download the application online at flpeanuts.com. The scholarship applications must be postmarked no later than July 1, 2016.

Teresa Mays, (right) APPA information specialist, visits with students at an Ag Career Day held at Landmark Park in Dothan, Ala.

April 2016 Southeastern Peanut Farmer

2016 DISEASE GUIDEBOOK Rating runners on leaf spot resistance niversity of Georgia plant pathologist Albert Culbreath spent the 2015 growing season evaluating ten runner peanut varieties to see which ones have the best resistance or tolerance to late leaf spot. The test included new varieties that have been released in the past few years as well as the widely grown Georgia-06G. In the test, the varieties TUFRunner 511 and Georgia-13M had the most leaf spot damage. The least amount of leaf spot was seen on the new TifNV High O/L and Georgia-14M varieties. TUFRunner 511 and Georgia-13M have many positive attributes, but growers will need to stay ahead of the leaf spot epidemics in these cultivars. “The new cultivars Georgia-14M and TifNV High O/L both showed considerable resistance to late leaf spot, in addition to their resistance to tomato spotted wilt virus and root-knot nematodes,” Culbreath says. “We’re planning trials for 2016 to determine how

Peanut leaf infestation of early leaf spot.

many fungicide applications will be needed for leaf spot control in these cultivars, and whether we can grow them without fungicides.” Other varieties were in between these extremes. These other varieties, rated from least to the most leaf spot, were Georgia-12Y, TUFRunner 727, TUFRunner 297, Florun 107, Georgia06G and Georgia-09B. Although Georgia-12Y doesn’t have a high level of resistance to late leaf spot, it appears to have considerable tolerance to the disease. So it may allow reduction in fungicide

applications for leaf spot control as well. Planting date also has an effect on leaf spot damage. Characterization of that effect is an objective of the thesis research of Brian Jordan, one of Culbreath’s graduate students. In a comparison of the Georgia-12Y and the Georgia-06G varieties, Jordan and Culbreath reported that final leaf spot severity was less on both varieties when planted on April 20. The severity of the leaf spot for both varieties increased as planting was delayed. The final planting on May 25 had the most leaf spot. The effects of planting date are almost directly opposite for leaf spot and tomato spotted wilt. Planting in April typically represents higher risk to tomato spotted wilt than later plantings. However Georgia-12Y, Georgia-14N, and TifNV High O/L all have resistance to TSWV that should allow use of earlier planting dates, thereby allowing growers to benefit from both resistance and planting date effects on leaf spot. t BY JOHN LEIDNER

Variety selection helps disease program ariety selection can result in lower disease control expenditures, according to Austin Hagan, Alabama Extension plant pathologist. For instance, Hagan says the Georgia-12Y variety could be selected for planting in fields with a high incidence of white mold. “The 12Y is white mold resistant,” Hagan says. “It is late in maturity and a good variety for April planting.” In Hagan’s tests, he varied seeding rates in plantings of the Georgia-06G, Georgia-09B and Georgia-12Y varieties.

As seeding rates increased from three to four to six to eight seed per foot, the incidence of white mold increased for both 06G and 09B. That’s to be expected, as white mold is normally worse with higher seeding rates. However, the 12Y had uniformly low incidence of white mold, with less than one percent of plants infected, even with eight seed per foot. By contrast, the Georgia-09B, Georgia-13M, and TUFRunner 511 varieties are especially susceptible to leaf spot. Hagan adds that TUFRunner 727 and TUFRunner 511 are among the

Southeastern Peanut Farmer April 2016

highest risks for suffering tomato spotted wilt losses, so reduced tillage, twin row spacing, delayed planting, and Thimet in-furrow will reduce the risk for tomato spotted wilt virus in these varieties. For fields with severe nematodes, the Tifguard and Georgia-14N varieties would be a good choice. “Tifguard and Georgia-14N may not always yield as well as Georgia-06G, but both yield best in fields with high root knot nematode populations,” Hagan adds. t BY JOHN LEIDNER

Disease Guidebook

Suspected fungicide resistance here’s no conclusive proof, but there’s strong circumstantial evidence that leaf spot is becoming resistant to widely used strobilurin fungicides. University of Georgia plant pathologist Albert Culbreath recently tested the strobilurin peanut fungicides Headline and Abound. He reports that when these two fungicides were used alone, they did not perform nearly as well as they had in previous years. In 2015, he also tested the new fungicide Elatus. Elatus contains azoxystrobin, the same active ingredient in Abound, and benzovindiflupyr, another active ingredient fungicide. “Elatus performed very well for leaf

spot control under heavy late season pressure in fields where full rates of Abound did not,” Culbreath says. Similarly, the fungicide Priaxor, which contains pyraclostrobin, the active ingredient in Headline, plus fluxapyroxad, performed very well in 2015 when Headline alone did not. Benzovindiflupyr and fluxapyroxad are both succinate dehydrogenase inhibitor (SDHI) fungicides, and seem to be excellent mixing partners with strobilurin fungicides for leaf spot control. “Although resistance to the strobilurin fungicides has not been demonstrated conclusively for the leaf spot pathogens, it is very much suspected,” Culbreath says.

Velum for leaf spot University of Georgia plant pathologist Albert Culbreath has examined the fungicide/nematicide component of the new Velum Total nematicide, and found that it shows good potential for helping to control early season leaf spot. Fluopyram is the active ingredient of the fungicide/nematicide portion of Velum Total. Previous research showed that Velum Total was active against nematodes and thrips. The work by Culbreath indicates that this product can provide a triple whammy against three major peanut problems—nematodes, thrips and also early leaf spot. Culbreath used in-furrow applications of Velum Total and compared these to in-furrow applications of the fungicide Proline. To make sure that early leaf spot was abundant and a threat to peanuts, Culbreath planted these peanut plots in August one year and in September the next year. He said the peanuts were planted after severe early leaf spot epidemics were seen in earlier planted unsprayed border rows. Following the in-furrow applications of Velum Total and Proline, Culbreath measured leaf spot incidence at regular intervals following planting. He concluded that the in-furrow Velum Total provided good early leaf spot control

under heavy disease pressure during both years of the study. The in-furrow Velum Total delayed the onset of early leaf spot in the peanut plots. Under heavy disease pressure, the in-furrow fluopyram was similar to the prothioconazole in Proline during 2014 tests. But during 2015, the fluopyram provided better results than the prothioconazole. Culbreath says use of in-furrow applications of Velum Total just for leaf spot control alone would not be justified, and that banded applications of Proline, at 21 days after planting would probably provide longer leaf spot control than the in-furrow Velum Total. While banded Proline may provide longer control of leaf spot, the in-furrow Velum Total may have a place in a leaf spot management regime. “I wouldn’t use Velum Total only for leaf spot,” Culbreath says, “but if you need it for nematode control or to help manage cylindrocladium black rot (CBR), the fluopyram in Velum Total may allow you to cut out an additional leaf spot fungicide application.” t

Southeastern Peanut Farmer April 2016

BY JOHN LEIDNER

Disease control on a budget

BY JOHN LEIDNER

“Dr. Katherine Stevenson, also with UGA, is a plant pathologist who specializes in fungicide resistance,” Culbreath adds. “We’re working with her to determine whether we’re dealing with resistance to this class of fungicide, and if so, how widespread it is in occurrence.” Using fungicides with two different modes of action should help to prolong the useful life of fungicides, even when resistant populations of leaf spot develop to one of the fungicides, according to Culbreath. He says that 2015 test results with Priaxor and Elatus, both examples of mixtures of two fungicides with different modes of action, support that hypothesis. t

Fighting plant diseases can be an expensive component of growing peanuts. Austin Hagan, Extension plant pathologist in Alabama, says fungicides for leaf spot and white mold account for 10-20 percent of total variable costs. He says crop rotation and planting dates are practices that can affect peanut diseases and overall spending in growing peanuts. For instance, Hagan says that by planting early, growers will minimize leaf spot and risk getting more white mold and spotted wilt. By planting later, he says there should be less white mold and spotted wilt but more leaf spot. Hagan suggests that Orthene or its equivalent could be used as a lower cost control for thrips. “We needed two applications of Orthene for thrips control last year,” Hagan says. “We did, however, not see a yield bump from Orthene but did with Thimet 20G and Velum Total.” Likewise, generic fungicides for leaf spot and white mold can be used. He suggests using a fungicide scheduling program such as Peanut Rx may pay off for growers who are using premium fungicides. “Rx will be good for use with premium fungicides, and it is well suited for peanuts with good rotations,” Hagan says. t

BY JOHN LEIDNER

Disease Guidebook

Targeting southern blight or stem rot lan Henn, Extension plant pathologist in Mississippi, is targeting southern blight or stem rot in his peanut tests. This is the disease many farmers call white mold. Henn doesn’t call it that because other disease organisms such as Sclerotinia minor also produce what could be called a white mold. Whatever it’s called, the disease is difficult to control because it is in the soil and causes yield losses before the aboveground symptoms are seen. “In heavy soils, you don’t see it above ground until later in the season,” Henn says. “This happens in the silt-loam soils found in the Mississippi Delta.” To best control the disease in these heavier soils, Henn recommends using 30 gallons of water per acre, and/or nighttime spraying to make sure the fungicide soaks into the soil where it is needed. “Get it to the base of the roots,” he advises. “The more water you use, the better.” Henn’s peanut studies are focusing on application timing and if it makes a difference what fungicide is applied when. In his 2015 timing test, he used Fontelis fungicide at 20 ounces per acre because it was the most consistent fungicide among all locations in his 2013 and 2014 tests. He started applications 40 days after 100 percent emergence and then at two-week or longer intervals. The test plots received two, three, four or

seven applications. There were three of these fungicide timing plots in his 2015 tests. One was dug before he could evaluate the plots and the data was lost. One did not receive any rain after late June. A third plot received light showers after late June and provided Henn with some useful data. Early hit of southern blight or stem rot on peanuts can be found in fields This plot was across the Southeast. dry. Its rows did not lap. Yet it had returns,” Henn adds. enough small showers that wilt was not In another 2015 test, he applied bad. He concluded that timing does make Abound, Fontelis and Provost fungicides a difference. Total kernel weight was a lot at the same timings used in the other 2015 higher for certain treatments, according to study. Henn. “It doesn’t seem to make a difference He found that two traditional which fungicide you use when, as long as applications at about 60 and 90 days after the fungicide is effective on southern emergence were as good as or better than blight,” Henn says. any treatment but the seven applications. “Tebuconazole is also reasonably The two traditional applications made a effective against southern blight,” Henn big difference, and produced higher yields says, “but I would not rely on it for leaf than not treating at all. spot control.” For leaf spot, he prefers to “It looks as though almost any time is see applications of chlorothalonil okay to apply the Fontelis, but the fungicides. t applications at 60 and 90 days were optimal when balancing costs and BY JOHN LEIDNER

How to get the best use of fungicides icholas Dufault, University of Florida plant pathologist, says crop rotation is always important for peanut disease management. He says it’s possible to get yield-limiting diseases even when high quality fungicide sprays are applied. “Fungicides don’t control all diseases,” Dufault says. “You also need to get good leaf coverage with leaf spot fungicides such as chlorothalonil. It’s like suntan lotion—don’t leave a bare spot.” One way to get better coverage is by increasing your water volume used to apply the fungicide. He uses 20 gallons of

water per acre in his test plots to make sure he gets good coverage with chlorothalonil. Overall, Dufault believes farmers will have more success in preventing rather than trying to cure peanut diseases. For soilborne diseases it is important to get the fungicide into the soil, he advises. Dufault says that rust, early and late leaf spot will vary by location in Florida. For instance, in 2015, he notes that rust was worse in Quincy, while late leaf spot was worse in Marianna and early leaf spot was the major leaf disease in Citra. His research has also observed considerable differences in the ability of

fungicides to control early leaf spot, late leaf spot and rust. Based on data from his tests in 2014 and 2015, Dufault says Abound is weak in controlling early and late leaf spot but strong on rust control. Tebuconazole was weak on late leaf spot but moderate to strong in controlling rust and early leaf spot. Headline was weak on early leaf spot, moderate in controlling late leaf spot and strong in controlling rust. Tilt was weak on late leaf spot and moderate to strong in controlling both early leaf spot and rust. t BY JOHN LEIDNER

April 2016 Southeastern Peanut Farmer

Disease Guidebook

The case for non-generic fungicides icholas Dufault, University of Florida plant pathologist, says generic peanut fungicides may be less expensive, but they don’t always produce the highest yields. He cites a study from Jay, Florida, conducted by John Atkins. It showed that the more expensive brand name fungicides (non-generic) produced higher yields and net profits than generic fungicides. Using data from his various fungicide trial work in Citra, Florida, he is able to relatively compare generic and non-generic fungicide programs. “We get 2,000 pounds more from generic fungicides than from not spraying at all,” Dufault says. He says Provost, Fontelis and Priaxor are among some of the well known brand name non-generic fungicides. “Nongeneric fungicides generally give more of a yield boost,” Dufault says. Based on his tests, he says the brand name, non-generic fungicides can increase spray costs by about $40 to 60 per acre while potentially adding about 400

pounds per acre to the final peanut yield. Fungicide rotation is critical for quality disease control, however, it is important to consider a spray program that rotates in non-generic fungicides to control additional diseases than what is controlled by generic fungicides alone. Dufault says that rotating fungicides also will help prevent the likelihood of selecting for fungal disease organisms with resistance. In his tests at Citra, applications of chlorothalonil only increased yields by 500 pounds per acre. These tests also included spray programs based on the fungicides Abound, Convoy, Provost, tebuconazole and Fontelis. All of these fungicide programs increased yields over that obtained from the chlorothalonil only with the Provost program tending to produce the highest yields, according to Dufault. His data showed that the Provostbased program added nearly 2,000 pounds in yield to the 500 extra pounds produced chlorothalonil alone. The spray programs based on tebuconazole, Abound and Fontelis increased yields by about 1,000

pounds over those from the chlorothalonil-only program. The Convoy based programs usually increased yields the least compared to the other fungicide programs. Dufault said one possible reason the Convoy programs did not increase yields as much as the other programs is because there was little white mold observed in these plots. “Convoy is a better choice for white mold control than for leaf spot,” he explains. “By increasing your crop rotation and by using non-generic fungicides, you will increase yields and control diseases,” Dufault says. “It will only take two or three sprays to get 500, 1000, or even 2,300 pounds in higher yields when you use non-generic fungicides.” “It pays for a farmer to spend a little more on a brand name fungicide, especially if you use fungicides at the right time by using a prescription approach such as Peanut Rx,” Dufault says. t BY JOHN LEIDNER

Priaxor vs. Headline riaxor is a new fungicide from BASF designed as a replacement product for Headline fungicide. Headline has been a premium product for leaf spot control, but it has been erratic as a control of soil borne diseases, according to University of Georgia plant pathologist Tim Brenneman. Priaxor is a combination of pyraclostrobin, the active ingredient in Headline, and a new fungicide with the common name of fluxapyroxad. Headline had the tendency to cling to the leaves, and would not wash off into the ground. That probably helped its activity against early and late leaf spot, but may have hindered its activity against Sclerotium rolfsii, the fungus that causes white mold. “The fungicide needs to get to the soil to provide good control of soilborne diseases,” Brenneman says. For peanuts, Priaxor is labeled at four to eight fluid ounces per application and

up to three applications per year. For control of both leaf spot and soilborne diseases, BASF recommends using Priaxor in two of the first three sprays. The company says only six sprays for leaf spot will be needed if Priaxor is the first spray product. With in-furrow applications, Priaxor treatments trailed both Proline and Velum Total in leaf spot control. When tested at rates of four, six or eight ounces per acre, all three Priaxor rates gave surprisingly similar control of white mold and leaf spot, according to Brenneman. However, white mold is a tougher target, and he suggests the higher use rates for this disease. University of Georgia plant pathologist Albert Culbreath looked closely at Priaxor as a control for leaf spot. In his tests, Priaxor was superior to Headline for leaf spot control. Brenneman concludes that Priaxor is a premium fungicide for leaf spot control,

Southeastern Peanut Farmer April 2016

Tim Brenneman, University of Georgia plant pathologist, has tested Priaxor for white mold control in peanuts.

and is a solution for what he calls the “erosion of efficacy” seen in Group 11 fungicides such as Abound Headline. He says while Priaxor is not the best choice for in-furrow applications, it appears to have good activity on white mold as a broadcast spray. He plans additional testing to see how effective Priaxor will be against other diseases such as Rhizoctonia limb rot and Cylindrocladium black rot. t

BY JOHN LEIDNER

Disease Guidebook

Make the most of Proline n early-season Proline application is a fairly new peanut disease control recommendation, according to University of Georgia Extension plant pathologist Bob Kemerait. Proline can provide season-long benefits in white mold control along with possible control of Rhizoctonia limb rot. Good results have been obtained with Proline after peanut emergence at the full rate of 5.7 fluid ounces per acre in a banded application over the young peanut plants. Kemerait says such a treatment also represents a significant financial investment. He says growers should keep in mind that Proline is not likely to provide all of the white mold control that is needed, and that early-season Proline should be followed by a standard soilborne fungicide program. The full 5.7-ounce rate should be banded over young peanut plants, whether they are growing in single or in twin rows. Tests in 2011 suggested that the yield benefits from the early Proline would be improved with a single treatment at five weeks after planting. In this test, treatment at the five-week date outyielded treatments applied two weeks after planting. The ideal application time will likely vary from one season to another based on weather conditions, according to Kemerait. “The ideal application time will likely vary from one season to another based on weather conditions,” Kemerait says, “but the optimum window is likely three-to-five weeks after planting.” The early-season Proline will also give growers a head start in controlling leaf spot, according to Kemerait. t

BY JOHN LEIDNER

Europe clamps down on fungicide residue he European Union has reduced the maximum residue level for propiconazole on imported peanuts from the 2016 crop, according to Austin Hagan, Alabama Extension plant pathologist. Propiconazole is an active ingredient in Tilt, Tilt-Bravo, Bumper, Propimax and Artisan. Hagan says the 2015 crop is unaffected, and no other crops are affected. The EPA registration for the active ingredient is also unaffected. Farmers should not apply propiconazole to any peanuts that have a chance of being exported. “It is still legal to use propiconazole, but you don’t know if your peanuts will end up going to Europe, the safe bet is not to use it,” Hagan says. Despite the clampdown on propiconazole residues, Hagan says Syngenta plans to re-register this fungicide product on peanut in Europe. t

BY JOHN LEIDNER

April 2016 Southeastern Peanut Farmer

2016 INSECT GUIDEBOOK When to scout for what We do not see enough scouting of our state’s peanut acreage,” says University of Georgia Extension entomologist Mark Abney. Clearly, Abney would like to see more peanut farmers scout their own acres, or hire competent consultants who provide professional scouting services. For example, Abney says it can cost up to $16 per acre for premium insecticides that target foliage feeding insects. “You may be wasting that money if you don’t scout your peanuts,” he explains.

“

Abney says growers often put out insecticides when they are applying fungicides. “You don’t always have to treat for insects,” he adds. “And if you do treat for insects, that treatment should be based on the results of scouting.” Scouting can also pay off when insects such as spider mites migrate from adjacent fields into peanuts. In such cases, the best treatment could be to just spray the perimeters of peanut fields. Abney and other entomologists recommend spraying insect pests when their numbers exceed those of economic thresholds. For some insect pests, these

Scouting Calendar April

May

June

July

August

Thrips Corn earworm Tobacco budworm Beet armyworm Fall armyworm Loopers Green cloverworm, velvetbean caterpillar Spider mite Rootworm Lesser cornstalk borer Burrower bug TCAH Normal activity period - weekly crop scouting Peak activity period - intensive crop scouting recommended

Southeastern Peanut Farmer April 2016

September

treatment thresholds either do not exist or are out of date. “Even in the absence of thresholds, it is important to scout for these pests,” Abney adds. According to Abney, scouting will help ensure that insecticides are applied only when they are needed. Scouting also helps to make sure that insecticide applications will be timely and will prevent yield losses. Scouting can save you a lot of money that you’d be spending if you apply insecticides based on gut instincts or based on what your neighbors are doing. So the biggest value from scouting may come from savings on insecticide applications that are not needed. Abney says, “The recommendation not to spray may be the most profitable one your consultant or scout can make for you.” Ayanava Majumdar, Extension entomologist in Alabama, has developed a chart that tells when to scout for major peanut insect pests. The chart identifies months when insect pest activity is considered normal, and the months when pest activity peaks. Under normal pest activity, Majumdar recommends weekly scouting in peanut fields. Under periods when pest activity tends to peak, he recommends intensifying crop scouting. Peak activity for thrips tends to occur during April. For foliage feeders such as corn earworm, tobacco budworm, beet armyworm, fall armyworm, loopers, green cloverworm and velvetbean caterpillar, the peak months are likely to be July or August. Spider mites and burrower bugs peak during August and September, according to Majumdar. August is the peak month for rootworms, lesser cornstalk borers and three cornered alfalfa hoppers. t BY JOHN LEIDNER

Insect Guidebook

Spider mite controls pider mites tend to be a problem on peanuts during hot, dry weather, especially in non-irrigated fields. Jeff Gore, Mississippi State University entomologist based at Stoneville, says spider mites are an occasional problem in peanuts, but they can be devastating when they do occur. “There are not a lot of spider mite controls available for their management, making them even more important,” he says. Comite II is the only miticide currently labeled for use in peanuts. It’s also true that spraying insecticides to control foliage feeding insects and applications of granular Lorsban can make spider mite populations worse. These flared populations of spider mites can be especially difficult to control in peanuts. One reason that spider mite control is difficult is due to the tendency of immature spider mites to spend most of the time on the undersides of leaves making coverage of the product used very important.

Gore has tested several insecticides for mite control and reports that a combination of Comite II and bifenthrin (brand name Brigade) obtained good control. Control of spider mites was relatively poor when either of those products were applied alone. Applying bifenthrin, or any other pyrethroid, alone when spider mites are present in peanut can result in rapid increases in mite populations. Gore has obtained good results in trials with several products that are not currently registered for use on peanut. With the help of Alan Henn, one of these products may become available through the IR-4 program. Henn serves as the IR-4 coordinator for Mississippi. IR-4 is headquartered at Rutgers University in New Jersey and is a cooperative program by university scientists aimed at getting chemical controls labeled for use on minor crops. t BY JOHN LEIDNER

Three cornered alfalfa hoppers ver since he became Georgia Extension entomologist several years ago, Mark Abney has been working hard to identify practical treatment thresholds for peanut insect pests. One of those pests is the three cornered alfalfa hopper. University of Georgia graduate student Brendan Beyer has been part of these studies. The insect punctures and girdles the peanut stems. Beyer calls the pest a phloem feeder because it deprives the plant of the juices it needs to grow. There are normally two population peaks of adult hoppers per season, according to Beyer. “Three cornered alfalfa hoppers are abundant in fields, but there has been little documentation of yield loss,” Beyer says. He estimates about half of Georgia peanuts are treated for three cornered alfalfa hoppers, mostly during July. To test the treatment threshold, Beyer built small screened cages and grew three plants of Georgia-06G peanuts in each cage. He also added immature alfalfa hopper nymphs to the cages. The treatments included zero, one, five, or ten nymphs per plant. These treatments were

based off of a preliminary threshold of one nymphs per plant. He looked at early infestations in June and late infestations in early September, and rated the plants as low, medium or high for girdling. He notes that peanut plants become tougher late in the season, and as a result, they are not as easy for the pests to damage the stems through girdling. The studies showed no correlation between girdling and plant biomass, but a weak correlation between girdling and yield was observed. Beyer concluded that low to moderate infestations will not affect plant biomass. Based on his data, he said three cornered alfalfa hoppers could reduce peanut yield, additional research is still needed. His later tests will simulate a heavier infestation by adding 20 nymphs per plant. Beyer also notes that it is difficult to scout three cornered alfalfa hoppers in the nymph stage because they are so small and so hard to see. He has also not seen any connection between three cornered alfalfa hoppers and peanut diseases, but this possible relationship needs additional study. t BY JOHN LEIDNER

Leaf loss studies aterpillar insects damage peanuts primarily by defoliating the plants. Whether or not to spray for caterpillars depends on how much yield loss to expect. It’s also true that peanuts have a remarkable ability to outgrow much of the leaf loss caused by insects without hurting yields. The question is how much leaf loss can peanuts stand before they start losing yield. Entomology studies in Mississippi suggest that the yield losses from foliage feeding insects will depend on when during plant growth that the leaves are lost. Jeff Gore, Mississippi State University entomologist based in Stoneville, says that it is not unusual for two, three or more species of caterpillars to cause defoliation at the same time. “We want to identify our treatment threshold, and base it on the defoliation percentage,” Gore says. In 2014, he intentionally defoliated peanut plants in an attempt to establish treatment thresholds. Yields decreased from 100 percent defoliation when the plants were 110 days old. Later in the growing season, there was little or no yield reduction from defoliation, according to Gore. In 2014, yields were reduced when defoliation took place at 35, 50, 65, 80 and 95 days after planting. In 2015, yield losses in the test were greatest when defoliation took place at 110 days after emergence. In another phase of the 2015 tests, defoliation at various levels took place at 40 and 80 days after planting. Overall, peanuts defoliated 40 days after planting yielded much higher than those defoliated 80 days after planting. The lowest yields in this test came from 100 percent defoliation 80 days after planting. “We also saw significant yield reduction with 20 percent defoliation 80 days after planting,” Gore says. t

BY JOHN LEIDNER

April 2016 Southeastern Peanut Farmer

Insect Guidebook

Thrips have gotten stronger obacco thrips resistance to neonicotinoid insecticides is becoming widespread across the Southeast and the Mid-South, reports Ames Herbert, Virginia Tech entomologist. So far, resistant tobacco thrips populations have been identified in Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi Tennessee, Louisiana, Arkansas, and Texas according to Herbert. He and his colleagues collected thrips populations from five locations in Virginia last year, and found that thrips were resistant to Gaucho at four locations with survival rates that ranged from 13 percent to 60 percent, and resistant to Cruiser at all locations with survival rates that ranged from 16 percent to 44 percent. Herbert and his colleagues also evaluated some newer insecticides for thrips control. One of these was Velum Total by Bayer CropScience which contains the same insecticide as Admire Pro. Others were Verimark and Exirel

which are products of Dupont. Both have the same active ingredient but Verimark is applied as a liquid in-furrow treatment and Exirel is applied as a foliar spray. Herbert said both products provide control of thrips but the foliar applied Exirel does a consistently better job compared with Verimark Radiant by Dow AgroSciences is not a new product but was also evaluated and generally performed better at a threeounce rate than at one-and-a-half ounces. “Thimet, and AMVAC products, is Thimet,” Herbert says. “It has worked for 30 years, and it still provides good control.” In their counts of immature thrips following treatment, the scientists reported that combinations of Cruiser Maxx seed treatment, a product of Syngenta, plus either Thimet or Admire Pro provided better control than Cruiser Maxx plus Orthene, or Cruiser Max or Dynasty alone. Herbert said the top performing

combinations included Cruiser Maxx plus Admire Pro in-furrow plus Orthene broadcast. Also performing well were Cruiser Maxx plus Admire Pro, Cruiser Max plus Thimet plus Orthene, and Admire Pro plus Orthene. University of Georgia Extension entomologist Mark Abney says yield losses from thrips are usually much higher in North Carolina and Virginia than what he sees in Georgia. Though he has not tested Exirel or Verimark, he has looked at Velum Total, and it looks to be a good product for thrips control. “This is not unexpected,” Abney says, “because the active ingredient in Velum is the same as that in Admire Pro. That product has been around for a long time. I try to remind growers that Velum Total targets both nematodes and thrips. For growers who do not need the nematode control, the Admire Pro is a much cheaper way to control the thrips.” t

Thrips getting stronger in Mississippi

New viruses from Thrips

eff Gore, Mississippi State University entomologist who works in Stoneville, is concerned that thrips are developing resistance to thiamethoxam, the insecticide component of CruiserMaxx Peanuts. At-planting insecticides are recommended in Mississippi to control thrips and other early season insect pests. Gore says CruiserMaxx Peanuts usually produced similar yields to peanuts grown with other at-planting insecticides. In tests conducted during 2015, CruiserMaxx resulted in a 540-pound per acre yield benefit over untreated peanuts compared to 881 pounds for Thimet, and more than 1,100 pounds per acre for both Velum Total and Admire Pro. However, he notes that thrips resistance to Cruiser jumped dramatically from 2014 levels to those seen in 2015. Velum Total is a nematicide that contains the same imidacloprid insecticide active ingredient as Admire Pro. “I get questions every year about spraying thrips in peanuts,” Gore says.

“All of the historical data said don’t worry about spraying for thrips. That was because the older varieties were susceptible to tomato spotted wilt virus and the virus spread to more plants after thrips were sprayed. In tests on thrips control in 2014, he saw significant yield increases from foliar sprays with acephate. The test area also had extensive peanut injury from Valor herbicide where heavy rains occurred as the peanuts were emerging and that may explain why they saw the benefit from the foliar sprays. “We saw some depressed yields from the Valor, but the peanuts can overcome some of that with a thrips control treatment,” Gore observed. “Our current recommendation to farmers will be to use foliar applications for thrips where we see any kind of early season stress. Currently, we are continuing research to look at the impact of multiple early season stresses, including thrips, on peanut yields.” t

Southeastern Peanut Farmer April 2016

BY JOHN LEIDNER

Spotted wilt is bad enough, but now there are new virus threats transmitted to peanuts by thrips. University of Georgia entomologists Rajagopalbabu Srinivasan and Mark Abney have seen a spike in what appears to be spotted wilt incidence or something similar during 2014 and 2015. Their latest studies are designed to find out if close relatives of tomato spotted wilt virus are causing the increase in disease incidence, especially that seen on the widely grown Georgia-06G variety. In particular, they’re looking for the Groundnut ringspot virus and the Tomato chlorotic spot virus. So far, these viruses have not been found in Georgia, but they have shown up in South Florida. Like tomato spotted wilt virus, these viruses transmitted by thrips, and are called tospoviruses. As in many instances before, it may be a matter of time before these viruses move from Florida into Georgia, according to Srinivasan. He suggests that it would be prudent to start monitoring peanut varieties for their susceptibility and tolerance to these new viruses. t

BY JOHN LEIDNER

Insect Guidebook

A trap for Burrower Bugs urrower bugs pose a big threat to peanuts, according to University of Georgia Extension entomologist Mark Abney. The pest is sporadic and spends a lot of time in the soil. The pest is difficult to monitor on a wide scale, and is elusive to scout on a field scale. Weather also has an impact on burrower bug activity. There seems to be fewer bugs and less damage during rainy weather. One of the main ways that burrower bugs hurt farmers is in grading at the buying point. Peanuts free of burrower bugs often grade seg 1, while those with burrower bug infestations are classified as seg 2 or damaged peanuts. “There are relatively few peanuts that are Seg 2 from burrowing bugs, but if you have them, then it is bad,” Abney says. Abney says Georgia studies during 2014 and earlier studies in Texas indicated that a light trap might be effective in collecting the bugs when they are mating or moving from one location to another. Abney says commercial insect light traps are expensive, about $500 each. So he worked with some of his colleagues to come up with a lower cost light trap, one that would cost only about $100 each. Abney credits his colleague Glen Raines for developing the lower cost light trap. The traps were equipped with Mark Abney, University of Georgia Extension peanut solar chargers that would turn on entomologist, plans to begin using the light traps in at dusk and turn off at dawn. 2016 in June when the burrower bug flights tend to peak. During the 2015 tests, they collected no burrower bugs in the light traps, mainly because of frequent evening thunderstorms that reduced the flights of the bugs. Abney plans to use the light traps again this year, starting in June when the bug flights tend to peak. He and his colleagues are also looking at alternative designs to create larger trap openings that might capture more bugs. If the light trapping is successful, Abney hopes to develop a risk assessment tool that would advise growers when to use cultural practices such as deep land turning or irrigation, along with chemical treatments such as Lorsban. Lorsban, however, is an organosphosphate insecticide that is being targeted by regulatory officials for elimination. If Lorsban is banned, Abney hopes nighttime foliar spraying may offer a possible alternative control. t

BY JOHN LEIDNER

For additional information throughout the growing season, check out Mark Abney’s blog at: blog.extension.uga.edu/peanutent April 2016 Southeastern Peanut Farmer

Washington Outlook by Robert L. Redding Jr.

Senate fails to move the GMO labeling bill With the new Vermont genetically modified organism (GMO) labeling law set to begin on July 1, the U.S. Senate rebuked the Senate Agriculture Committee’s effort to head off the impact from the Vermont law. The Biotechnology Labeling Solutions bill has not been rescheduled for consideration to date. Agriculture Committee Chairman Pat Roberts, R-Kansas, commented after the 48-49 floor vote failed to invoke cloture: “For more than a year, I have called on my colleagues across the aisle to come to the negotiating table to address the problems facing the nation’s marketplace should states continue to mandate confusing and differing biotechnology labeling standards. I have repeatedly put forward proposals to protect farmers, manufacturers, retailers, and consumers. I have been flexible and have compromised in order to address concerns about making information available to consumers. Simply put, if we are to have a solution, opponents of our bill must be willing to do the same. And yet opponents of this approach would not put forward a proposal for a vote. Why is that? Will their proposals pass the Senate or better yet, the House? In short, where is their solution? Without their own solution, opponents of this bill must favor the status quo. We cannot stand on the sidelines and risk increasing costs for consumers and further uncertainty in the marketplace for farmers and manufacturers. If we do not act, everyone loses. I have acted to provide a responsible, enforceable, scientific and proactive approach to arm consumers with the information they want to make informed choices about what to put on the dinner table. But most important, I respect the work of our farmers and ranchers that produce the food and fiber to feed a troubled and hungry world. Farmers, manufacturers and consumers should ask their Senator if they can say the same. My approach to labeling acknowledges what many American consumers forget: our food is abundant, affordable and safe. We must continue our reliance on science and technology to ensure our continued prosperity. I remain at the ready to work on a solution to a critical problem that will face every American every day.”

Ag Data Availabilty A number of farm organizations are showing increased interest in how new technologies and data are impacting farmers. This includes issues of security, information availability relative to equipment repair, ownership of the information, telematics, etc. Some states are now considering legislation to address farmer concerns about the availability of information from equipment and technology providers. This is an issue that has been debated at great length in the automobile industry.

Southeastern Peanut Farmer April 2016

House Agriculture Committee reviews USDA organization and administration of programs In two separate hearings, the U.S. House Agriculture Committee reviewed the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) current structure and program administration. The hearings included senior USDA officials from all of the agencies. Chairman Mike Conaway, R-Texas, commented, “It is our responsibility as committee members to work in tandem with USDA, advocating on behalf of American consumers and producers. It is also our responsibility to provide rigorous oversight of USDA activities. On both accounts, I have enjoyed working with Secretary Vilsack and his team, and I thank them for their participation this week. Hearing from every mission area at USDA over a two-day period provides a unique opportunity to see how all of the various parts of USDA work together. I hope to continue these conversations as we move forward.”

USDA recognizes success of school breakfast program The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) commemorated the 50th anniversary of its School Breakfast Program by shining a light on the positive impacts of school breakfast. Over the course of this administration, participation in school breakfast programs has increased by almost 27 percent; more than 14 million students are now eating school breakfast each day. To help support the ongoing success of the School Breakfast Program and other child nutrition programs, Agriculture Undersecretary Kevin Concannon announced that USDA will award up to $6.8 million in competitive Team Nutrition Training Grants to help schools and child care sites sustain the implementation of the healthier meals made possible by the bipartisan Healthy Hunger-free Kids Act of 2010. “As we celebrate the 50th anniversary of the School Breakfast Program, we reflect on the great strides the program has made in strengthening the health and nutrition of children in America. The School Breakfast Program allows millions of students to start their day with a well-balanced breakfast, which, in turn, is linked to better performance in the classroom, better attendance, and better health,” Concannon says. USDA research found that students with access to school breakfast tend to have a better overall diet and a lower body mass index (BMI) than did nonparticipants. Other research has shown that students who consume breakfast make greater strides on standardized tests, pay attention and behave better in class, and are less frequently tardy, absent or visiting the nurse’s office.

Peanut Leadership Academy travels to Washington D.C. embers of Class IX of the Peanut Leadership Academy visited Washington D.C. Feb. 28 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; March 3 for the fourth and final session of the leadership program before graduating this upcoming summer. During the session, attendees had the opportunity to hear from industry representatives and discuss policy development, U.S. trade and export markets, as well as receive overall updates on the U.S. peanut industry. Day one of the session consisted of meetings with industry representatives including: Bob Redding, The Redding Firm; Ashley Jones and Sharon Bomer Lauritsen, U.S. Trade Representative; Robbie Minnich, senior government relations representative, National Cotton Council; Jay Howell, Howell Associates; representatives of the U.S. House Committee on Agriculture; Patrick Archer and Stephanie Grunenfelder, American Peanut Council; Richard Flournoy, USDA Risk Management Agency; and Leigh Allen, National Black Growers Council. During this time, participants were able to learn more about the trade and export market, particularly as it relates to peanuts, as well as hear how agricultural industry groups are working on their behalf. Day two kicked off by meeting with legislators on Capitol Hill. During these meetings, participants were able to visit with U.S. senators and representatives from the peanut-producing states in the Southeast, Virginia/Carolina area and Texas. PLA participants were able to discuss concerns related to their respective states, as well as express gratitude for their delegationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s service and support. To conclude day two, participants had a special opportunity to meet with Rep. Mike Conaway, R-Texas, chairman of the House Committee on Agriculture and USDA Farm and Foreign Agriculture Services chief of staff, Ben Thomas. The Peanut Leadership Academy, coordinated by the Southern Peanut Farmers Federation and sponsored by

Peanut Leadership Academy participants meet with USDA FFAS Chief of Staff Ben Thomas. Pictured left to right, front row: John Powell, American Peanut Shellers Association; Colton Farrow, Golden Peanut and Tree Nuts; Levi Findley, Florida; Jessie Bland, Georgia Peanut Commission; Chief of Staff Ben Thomas; Ken Barton, Florida Peanut Producers Association; Brian Byrd, Alabama; Frank Moore, Syngenta; Austin Warbington, Georgia; Jeremy Sessions, Alabama; Lee Prather, Syngenta; back row: Caleb Bristow, Alabama Peanut Producers Association; Bubba Curry, Georgia; B. Jones, Mississippi; Russ Walters, Alabama; Paul Huber, Birdsong Peanuts; Marshall Speake, Alabama; Jeremy Rolling, Florida; Kelton Coleman, Texas; Trey Sanchez, Florida; Meredith Rogers, Georgia; Shelly Nutt, Texas Peanut Producers Association; Mike Wood, Syngenta; and Japheth Saecker, Birdsong Peanuts.

Peanut Leadership Academy participants meet with Rep. Mike Conaway, chairman of the House Committee on Agriculture. Pictured left to right, front row: Jessie Bland, Georgia Peanut Commission; Russ Walters, Alabama; B. Jones, Mississippi; Brian Byrd, Alabama; Kelton Coleman, Texas; Congressman Conaway; Jeremy Sessions, Alabama; Shelly Nutt, Texas Peanut Producers Association; Levi Findley, Florida; Frank Moore, Syngenta; Meredith Rogers, Georgia; back row: Japheth Saecker, Birdsong Peanuts; Trey Sanchez, Florida; Marshall Speake, Alabama; Paul Huber, Birdsong Peanuts; Jeremy Rolling, Florida; Mike Wood, Syngenta; Caleb Bristow, Alabama Peanut Producers Association; Ken Barton, Florida Peanut Producers Association; Austin Warbington, Georgia; Lee Prather, Syngenta; Colton Farrow, Golden Peanut and Tree Nuts; and Bubba Curry, Georgia.

Syngenta Crop Protection and the American Peanut Shellers Association, provides leadership training for young farmers and sheller representatives throughout the peanut industry. Through the training, participants gain valuable leadership skills to be used in the future

and gain insight into many different types of issues the peanut industry faces. Additional information on the Peanut Leadership Academy is available online at www.southernpeanutfarmers.org. t BY JESSIE BLAND

April 2016 Southeastern Peanut Farmer

Southern Peanut Growers Southern Peanut Growers and Georgia Peanut Commission exhibit at the Southern Women’s Show in Savannah Southern Peanut Growers and Georgia Peanut Commission exhibited at the Southern Women’s Show February 26 - 28 in Savannah, Georgia. Nearly 13,000 people attended the three-day show at the Savannah International Trade & Convention Center. The exhibit featured the Don Koehler, Georgia Peanut Commission executive director, new peanut field backdrop presents a cooking demo on the and visits with two local cooking stage during the Southern peanut farmers, Joe Women’s Show in Savannah. Boddiford and Andy Owens. Guests could pick up recipes and recipe brochures, sample peanut butter dishes such as Peanut Butter Toffee Dip and Peanut Butter Gelato, and receive promotional items such as peanut butter spreaders, cutting boards and measuring cups. Don Koehler took the Celebrity Cooking Stage each day to entertain the guests while showing them how to make Peanut Butter Gelato and Peanutty Peach Crisp, Savannah Style BBQ gone Nuts and Peanut Apple Chutney, and Spicy Shrimp with PB Dipping Sauce. Southern Peanut Growers will exhibit at the Southern Women's Show in Nashville, Tenn. April 14 - 17. The Nashville show is one of the largest Southern Women's Shows with nearly 40,000 people in attendance each year. Cooking demonstrations each day will feature Mother's Day Powered by Peanuts with recipes such as the Peanut Butter Breakfast Bread Pudding.

Georgia Peanut Commission vice chairman Joe Boddiford (left) greets a consumer in the new peanut field backdrop while Andy Owens, GPC advisory board member, (right) visits with consumers checking out recipes and nutritional information at the Southern Womens’ Show booth in Savannah.

Marketing arm of

Uncle Maddio’s Pizza introduces Thai flavors with peanuts and peanut butter sauce Uncle Maddio’s Pizza is offering ThaiTastic Salad and Sriracha Chicken Pizza in April and May. The two Southeast Asian-flavored items are inspired by the complex sweet-sour-salty-spicy flavor of Thai cuisine. Both items feature a homemade Thai peanut butter sauce, a sweet and spicy honey Sriracha dressing and chopped peanuts. Uncle Maddio’s has partnered with the Southern Peanut Growers and is committed to sourcing its peanuts from American peanut farmers for the Thai menu items. The partnership will be supported by a joint social media campaign between Uncle Maddio's and the Southern Peanut Growers. Uncle Maddio’s Pizza currently operates almost 50 locations in 15 states, with more than 275 units in development. Making more than 5 million pizzas a year, Uncle Maddio’s is the category leader of the create-your-own, fast casual pizza restaurants.

Southern Peanut Growers celebrates March, National Peanut Month with a Twitter Party To celebrate the kick-off of this year’s PB My Way: For Life recipe contest, SPG hosted a Twitter Party to foster online discussion about peanut butter’s versatility as an ingredient and spark recipe ideas that incorporate peanut butter into snack time, family-tested, sweet celebrations and fit fuel recipes. The party also encouraged participation in SPG’s PB My Way contest. Co-host Katie Workman, author of “The Mom 100 Cookbook,” offered her own creative culinary ideas and photos to this successful social event. Leading up to the event, SPG promoted the Twitter Party via targeted Twitter invites, Facebook posts, and Katie’s social media mentions. By the day of the Twitter Party, fans and followers were excited to chat about PB. The Twitter Party resulted in a 6 percent increase in SPG’s Twitter followers and more than 1.7 million impressions.

Southern Peanut Growers 1025 Sugar Pike Way · Canton, Georgia 30115 (770) 751-6615 · FAX (770) 751-6417 email: lpwagner@comcast.net Visit our website at http://www.peanutbutterlovers.com

April 2016 Southeastern Peanut Farmer