Trends in Insect Losses and Management on Desert Lettuce: A 19-Year Summary

Abstract

This 19-year summary (2004–2023) of insect pest impacts on desert lettuce in Arizona evaluates pest status, yield losses, and economic trends using survey data from Pest Control Advisors (PCAs). Through intensive scouting and management practices, PCAs have consistently maintained yield losses below 1% per pest in both fall and spring lettuce crops. Key pests include beet armyworm, western flower thrips, green peach aphid, and cabbage looper, with variations in pest pressure and management costs across seasons. The study highlights the effectiveness of integrated pest management (IPM) strategies and the value of long-term data in guiding pest control decisions and economic assessments in leafy vegetable production.