Thrips

While not a record-breaking winter, temperatures have been below normal over the past couple of months for many locations across the PNW.  That, said Washington State University’s Dr. Tim Waters, is good news, especially for row crop growers.   He not...

As the Pacific Northwest gears up for another growing season, many have wondered what, if any impact the extreme heat of 2021 will have on the year head. Washington State University’s Dr. Tim Waters said there was no doubt last year’s heat, which saw temperatures into the high 110’s had an impact on pest populations. “Growers ...

With extremely hot weather expected to return later this week, onion growers are reminded to keep a close eye on their fields.  Washington State University’s Tim Waters says, much like potatoes, water management is very important when temperatures soar.  He said ...

While the figures have not been as high as past seasons, onion growers are asked to watch are fields for thrips.  Washington State University’s Tim Waters said onion thrips numbers have been increasing over the past couple of weeks.   “...

Yesterday, we told you what potato growers need to be watching for in their fields.  Today, we turn to the onions.  Tim Waters with WSU said the window on many of the early season insect threats is closing, but thrips are starting to show up in area fields.   “...

Onion growers across the Columbia Basin are being advised to actively scout for Thrips.  WSU Extension’s Tim Waters said warmer, dryer conditions allow Thrips to thrive and multiple quickly.  He said if left untreated, thrips can decrease overall yield by 5% to 40%.  So growers mu...