- Author: Neil McRoberts
Dixon area general outlook After the extended cool spring, it looks like we have settled into typical summer weather for the Central Valley. Temperature projections for the next 7-10 days are in the mid 90's to high 90's F - perfect conditions for thrips development. So far there are no reports of TSWV on pepper in the area, but with delayed planting as a result of the extended spring rains, crops will be susceptible to damage for some weeks to come.
Gilroy/Holiser area general outlook There are no reports of TSWV in the Gilroy/Holister area yet. In common with other areas of northern California, planting was delayed this year as a result of the wet spring and crops are still relatively small. Highs will be in the low to mid 80's F across the area over the next few days and thrips numbers are building up steadily.
Thrips generation timing We have extended the projections out to the end of July. Generation 3 adults in both areas will probably peak this week. Generation 4 will peak in late June or early July, with Generation 5, peaking in the second half of July. If you are planning to apply treatments to control thrips/TSWV, the next 4-6 weeks are a critical period for getting effective control on thrips populations. Since reported TSWV levels across both areas are low the immediate risk is not high, but action now will suppress Generation 4 and limit the spread of TSWV into and within pepper crops. On the current schedule, an early to mid July treatment would impact Generation 5. We will issue further updates over the next few weeks.