New Product Option for Onion Growers Miffed by Thrips

Posted by Growing Produce Staff|April 9, 2019

Crop protection company Nichino America Inc. has announced its Torac Insecticide has been granted U.S. EPA label expansion for use in onions.

According to the company, Torac controls thrips in onions and other bulb vegetables (Crop Group 3-07). The active ingredient in Torac (tolfenpyrad) works by blocking cellular respiration and is effective on immature and adult stages of thrips. Because Torac causes rapid cessation of feeding in the pest, it also aids in reducing the transmission of Iris Yellow Spot Virus. Torac belongs to the Mitochondrial Electron Transport Inhibitor class of compounds, IRAC Group 21A Insecticide.

For effective resistance management, Torac can be used in rotation with insecticides of different modes of action.

Torac is a contact foliar insecticide, which means proper application and coverage is critical for maximizing control. Application with an adjuvant/spreader will optimize uniformity of coverage and performance, the company says. The label states a maximum dosage of 72 fluid ounces per year with a maximum of three applications per year. Torac has a 7-day preharvest interval.