Integrated Management of Volunteer Potatoes and Colorado Potato Beetle

Volunteer potatoes are becoming an increasingly problematic weed in Michigan. Historically, harsh winter temperatures kill volunteers, however increasing winter temperatures has enhanced volunteer survival. These volunteers also serve as an early season food source Colorado potato beetle, further exacerbating damage from this pest in potatoes. This session presents current research on developing management strategies for volunteer potatoes and Colorado potato beetle. This research examines the impacts of tillage intensity, herbicide, and insecticide programs to manage these pests in corn. Additionally, this session presents results from research examining the impacts of planting delayed potato trap crops to target second generation Colorado potato beetles. The findings from this research will help provide options to growers for effectively managing these pests.