Green peach aphids were observed in Rupert/Burley this week. Aphids on potato are of concern only in regard to their transmission of plant viruses. Systemic insecticides are generally the most effective against aphids; however, use of insecticides may reduce, but will not eliminate spread of viruses. There are no well-established treatment thresholds for aphids in potato.
Consult the PNW Insect Management Handbook (http://pnwpest.org/pnw/insects) for registered products. Consult CIS 1165 (http://www.cals.uidaho.edu/edComm/detail.asp?IDnum=1535) by Nolte, Alvarez and Whitworth for more detailed recommendations on management of aphid vectors of potato virus, including insecticide recommendations.
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