Field tests were continued during 1970, 1971, and 1972 in southwestern Ontario to evaluate experimental and registered insecticides for control of Euxoa messoria (Harris) larvae on tobacco. Insecticides were applied before planting as broadcast applications to the rye cover crop or to the soil.
Of 10 chemicals tested, chlorpyrifos, leptophos, and N-2596 (S-(p-chlorophenyl O-ethyl ethyl-phosphonodithioate) gave the most consistent control, and Biothion® (O,O′-thiodi-p-phenylene O,O,O′,O′-tetramethyl phosphorothioate) and methoxychlor gave variable control. Fensulfothion was slightly phytotoxic, and trichlorfon and Mobam® (benzo [b] thien-4-yl methylcarbamate) were ineffective in the present study. Supracide® (O,O-dimethyl phosphorodithioate S-ester with 4-(mercaptomethyl)-2-methoxy-Δ2-1,3,4-thiodiazolin-5-one) and Orthene® (O,S-dimethyl N-acetyl phosphoramidothioate) showed promise for control of E. messoria larvae.
Levels of reducing sugars and total alkaloids in the cured leaves were unaffected by treatment, indicating that these insecticides had no effect on tobacco quality.