2016 Org Lettuce NYSIPM

2016
Organic Production and IPM Guide for

Lettuce
NYS IPM Publication No. 136
Integrated Pest Management

New York State
Department of
Agriculture & Markets
Coordinating Editor
Abby Seaman* (Cornell University, New York State Integrated Pest Management Program)
Contributors and Resources

George Abawi (Cornell University, Section of Plant Pathology and Plant Microbe Biology, retired)
Beth K. Gugino (The Pennsylvania State University, Department of Plant Pathology)
Michael Helms* (Cornell University, Pesticide Management Education Program)
Anusuya Rangarajan (Cornell UniversityHorticulture-SIPS, Vegetable Crop Production)
Margaret McGrath* (Cornell University, Section of Plant Pathology and Plant Microbe Biology)
Charles L. Mohler (Cornell University, Cornell University, Section of Soil and Crop Sciences, retired)
Brian Nault* (Cornell University, Department of Entomology)
Ward M. Tingey (Cornell University, Department of Entomology, Emeritus)
*Pesticide Information and Regulatory Compliance
Staff Writers
Elizabeth Graeper Thomas and Mary Kirkwyland (Cornell University, NYSAES, New York State IPM Program)
Editing for the 2016 update

Mary Kirkwyland (Cornell University, NYSAES, New York State IPM Program)
Special Appreciation
Format based on the Integrated Crop and Pest Management Guidelines for Commercial Vegetable Production https://ipmguidelines.org/ .
Content Editors Stephen Reiners and Abby Seaman, with numerous discipline editors.
Funded in part by the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets
The information in this guide reflects the current authors best effort to interpret a complex body of scientific research, and to translate this into
practical management options. Following the guidance provided in this guide does not assure compliance with any applicable law, rule, regulation or
standard, or the achievement of particular discharge levels from agricultural land.
Every effort has been made to provide correct, complete, and up-to-date pest management information for New York State at the time this
publication was released for printing (June 2016). Changes in pesticide registrations and regulations, occurring after publication are available in county
Cornell Cooperative Extension offices or from the Pesticide Management Education Program web site (http://pmep.cce.cornell.edu). Trade names used
herein are for convenience only. No endorsement of products in intended, nor is criticism of unnamed products implied.
This guide is not a substitute for pesticide labeling. Always read the product label before applying any pesticide.
Updates and additions to this guide are available at http://nysipm.cornell.edu/resources/publications/organic-guides. Please submit comments or
suggested changes for these guides to [email protected].
How to cite this publication: Seaman, Abby, editor (2016). Production Guide for Organic Lettuce. Publisher: New York State
Integrated Pest Management Program, Cornell University (New York State Agricultural Experiment Station, Geneva, NY). 63
pages.
1 2016
Contents
INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................................................................................................ 1
1. General Organic Management Practices...................................................................................................................................... 1
1.1 Organic Certification .................................................................................................................................................................. 1
1.2 Organic System Plan .................................................................................................................................................................. 1
2. Soil Health ............................................................................................................................................................................... 1
3. Cover Crops ............................................................................................................................................................................. 2
3.1 Goals and Timing for Cover Crops ............................................................................................................................................ 2
3.2 Legume Cover Crops ................................................................................................................................................................. 2
3.3 Non-legume Cover Crops .......................................................................................................................................................... 3
3.4 Combining Legumes and Non-legumes. .................................................................................................................................... 3
3.5 Biofumigant Cover Crops .......................................................................................................................................................... 3
4. Field Selection.......................................................................................................................................................................... 5
4.1 Certification Requirements ........................................................................................................................................................ 5
4.2 Crop Rotation Plan ..................................................................................................................................................................... 5
4.3 Pest History ................................................................................................................................................................................ 7
4.4 Soil and Air Drainage................................................................................................................................................................. 7
5. Weed Management ................................................................................................................................................................. 7
5.1 Record Keeping .......................................................................................................................................................................... 8
5.2 Weed Management Methods ...................................................................................................................................................... 8
6. Recommended Varieties .......................................................................................................................................................... 9
7. Planting ................................................................................................................................................................................. 13
7.1 Direct Seeding .......................................................................................................................................................................... 13
7.2 Transplant Production .............................................................................................................................................................. 13
7.3 Greenhouse Sanitation and Disease Management .................................................................................................................... 14
7.4 Transplant Growing Mix .......................................................................................................................................................... 14
7.5 Transplanting ........................................................................................................................................................................... 15
7.6 Planting Dates .......................................................................................................................................................................... 15
8. Crop and Soil Nutrient Management ..................................................................................................................................... 15
8.1 Fertility ..................................................................................................................................................................................... 16
8.2 Preparing an Organic Nutrient Budget ..................................................................................................................................... 16
9. Harvesting ............................................................................................................................................................................. 19
9.1 Harvest Methods ...................................................................................................................................................................... 19
9.2 Storage ..................................................................................................................................................................................... 19
9.3 Microbial Food Safety.............................................................................................................................................................. 20
10. Using Organic Pesticides ...................................................................................................................................................... 22
10.1 Sprayer Calibration and Application ...................................................................................................................................... 22
10.2 Regulatory Considerations ..................................................................................................................................................... 22
10.3 Pollinator Protection............................................................................................................................................................... 23
10.4 Optimizing Pesticide Effectiveness ........................................................................................................................................ 23
11. Disease Management .......................................................................................................................................................... 23
11.1 Anthracnose, Microdochium panattonianum ......................................................................................................................... 26
11.2 Botrytis Gray Mold, Botrytis cinerea ..................................................................................................................................... 27
11.3 Bottom Rot and Wirestem, Rhizoctonia solani ...................................................................................................................... 29
11.4 Damping-off, Pythium spp., Rhizoctonia solani .................................................................................................................... 31
2 2016
ORGANIC LETTUCE PRODUCTION
11.5 Downy Mildew, Bremia lactucae .......................................................................................................................................... 33

11.6 Drop, Sclerotinia sclerotiorum, Sclerotinia minor ................................................................................................................. 36
11.7 Aster Yellows aster yellows phytoplasma, vectored by the aster leafhopper. ........................................................................ 38
11.8 Lettuce Viruses, Lettuce Mosaic Virus (LMV), Cucumber Mosaic Virus (CMV), Broadbean Wilt Virus (BBWV), transmitted
by aphids ........................................................................................................................................................................................ 39
12. Nematodes .......................................................................................................................................................................... 41
12.1 Northern Root-Knot Nematode, Meloidogyne hapla ............................................................................................................. 41
13. Nonpathogenic Disorders .................................................................................................................................................... 42
14. Insect Management ............................................................................................................................................................. 42
14.1 Aphids primarily Green Peach Aphid, Myzus persicae .......................................................................................................... 45
14.2 Aster Leafhopper, Macrosteles quadrilineatus ...................................................................................................................... 48
14.3 Cabbage Looper, Trichoplusia ni ........................................................................................................................................... 49
14.4 Tarnished Plant Bug, Lygus lineolaris ................................................................................................................................... 52
15. Slugs .................................................................................................................................................................................... 54
16. Pesticides and Abbreviations Mentioned in this Publication ................................................................................................ 55
17. References and Resources ................................................................................................................................................... 58
2016
INTRODUCTION
1. GENERAL ORGANIC MANAGEMENT PRACTICES
T his guide for organic production of lettuce provides an

outline of cultural and pest management practices and
includes topics that have an impact on improving plant
health and reducing pest problems. It is divided into sections,
1.1 Organic Certification
To use a certified organic label, farming operations grossing
more than $5,000 per year in organic products must be
but the interrelated quality of organic cropping systems makes certified by a U.S. Department of Agriculture National
each section relevant to the others. The production of baby Organic Program (NOP) accredited certifying agency. The
lettuce greens and greens in greenhouses require slightly choice of certifier may be dictated by the processor or by the
different techniques which are generally not addressed in this target market. A list of accredited certifiers (reference 14)
guide. operating in New York can be found on the New York State
This guide attempts to compile the most current information Department of Agriculture and Markets Organic Farming
available, but acknowledges that effective means of control Development/Assistance webpage (reference 15). See more
are not available for some pests. More research on growing certification and regulatory details under Section 4.1:
crops organically is needed, especially in the area of pest Certification Requirements and Section 10: Using Organic Pesticides.
management. Future revisions will incorporate new
1.2 Organic System Plan
information, providing organic growers with a complete set
of useful practices to help them achieve success. An organic system plan (OSP) is central to the certification
process. The OSP describes production, handling, and
Lettuce is grown for its edible leaves as a salad crop. It may record-keeping systems, and demonstrates to certifiers an
be the most widely grown crop on organic farms because its understanding of organic practices for a specific crop. The
value as locally produced is unsurpassed. There are three process of developing the plan can be very valuable in terms
commonly grown types of lettuce: leaf, head (crisphead, bibb, of anticipating potential issues and challenges, and fosters
butter) and romaine (cos). All three are popular as baby salad thinking of the farm as a whole system. Soil, nutrient, pest,
greens and are used in salad mixes. Cultivated lettuce is and weed management are all interrelated on organic farms
closely related to wild lettuce and both share the same insect and must be managed in concert for success. Certifying
pests and diseases. organizations may be able to provide a template for the farm
This guide uses the term Integrated Pest Management (IPM), plan. The following description of the organic system plan is
which like organic production, emphasizes cultural, biological, from the USDA National Organic Program Handbook:
and mechanical practices to minimize pest outbreaks. With A plan of management of an organic production or
limited pest control products available for use in many handling operation that has been agreed to by the
organic production systems, an integrated approach to pest producer or handler and the certifying agent and
management is essential. IPM techniques such as identifying that includes written plans concerning all aspects of
and assessing pest populations, keeping accurate pest history agricultural production or handling described in the
records, selecting the proper site, and preventing pest Organic Food Production Act of 1990 and the
outbreaks through use of crop rotation, resistant varieties and regulations in Subpart C, Organic Production and
biological controls are important to producing a high quality Handling Requirements.
crop.
The National Sustainable Agriculture Information Service,
Key Pests of Lettuce. Perennial pests in NY
(formerly ATTRA), has produced a Guide for Organic Crop
Diseases Insects
Producers that includes a chapter on writing the organic
Gray mold Aphids
system plan. The Rodale Institute has also developed
Bottom rot Tarnished plant bug
resources for transitioning to organic and developing an
Downy mildew
organic system plan.
Potentially Serious Pests. Use management strategies to
prevent buildup of this potentially serious pest.
2. SOIL HEALTH
Sclerotinia drop
Healthy soil is the foundation of organic farming. Regular
additions of organic matter in the form of cover crops,
compost, or manure create a soil that is biologically active,
with good structure and capacity to hold nutrients and water
(note that any raw manure applications must occur at least
120 days before harvest). Decomposing plant materials will
1 2016
activate a diverse pool of microbes, including those that break clean. Cover crop seed is a common route for introduction
down organic matter into plant-available nutrients, as well as of new weed species onto farms.
others that compete with plant pathogens in the soil and on
the root surface. However, newly incorporated organic matter 3.1 Goals and Timing for Cover Crops
can reduce germination and increase damping-off in lettuce. Adding cover crops regularly to the crop rotation plan can
Allow 2 weeks between incorporation and planting. result in increased yields of the subsequent cash crop. Goals
should be established for choosing a cover crop; for example,
Rotating between crop families can help prevent the buildup the cover crop can add nitrogen, smother weeds, or break a
of diseases that overwinter in the soil. Rotation with a grain pest cycle. The cover crop might best achieve some of these
crop, or preferably a crop or crops that will be in place for goals if it is in place for an entire growing season. If this is
one or more seasons, deprives many, but not all, disease- impractical, a compromise might be to grow the cover crop
causing organisms of a host, and also contributes to a healthy between summer cash crops. Allow two or more weeks
soil structure that promotes vigorous plant growth. The same between cover crop incorporation and cash crop seeding to
practices are effective for preventing the buildup of a number permit decomposition of the cover crop, which will improve
of root damaging nematodes in the soil, especially the root- the seedbed while avoiding any unwanted allelopathic effects
knot nematode, but keep in mind that certain grain crops are on the next cash crop. Another option is to overlap the
also hosts for some nematode species including lesion cover crop and the cash crop life cycles by overseeding,
nematodes. Rotating between crops with late and early interseeding or intercropping the cover crop between cash
season planting dates can reduce the buildup of weed crop rows at final cultivation. An excellent resource for
populations. Organic growers must attend to the connection determining the best cover crop for your situation is Northeast
between soil, nutrients, pests, and weeds to succeed. An Cover Crop Handbook, by Marianne Sarrantonio (reference 22)
excellent resource for additional information on soils and soil or the Cornell online decision tool to match goals, season,
health is Building Soils for Better Crops by Fred Magdoff and and cover crop (reference 24).
Harold Van Es, 2010 (reference 25). For additional
information, refer to the Cornell Soil Health website Leaving cover crop residue on the soil surface might make it
(reference 26). easier to fit into a crop rotation and will help to conserve soil
moisture, but some of the nitrogen contained in the residue
3. COVER CROPS will be lost to the atmosphere, and total organic matter added
to the soil will be reduced. Turning under the cover crop will
Unlike cash crops, which are grown for immediate economic
speed up the decomposition and nitrogen release from the
benefit, cover crops are grown for their valuable effect on soil
residue. In wet years, the presence of cover crop residues may
properties and on subsequent cash crops. Cover crops help
increase slug damage and infections by fungal pathogens such
maintain soil organic matter, improve soil tilth, prevent
as Pythium and Rhizoctonia, affecting stand establishment.
erosion and assist in nutrient management. They can also
contribute to weed management, increase water infiltration, 3.2 Legume Cover Crops
maintain populations of beneficial fungi, and may help Legumes are the best cover crop for increasing available soil
control insects, diseases and nematodes. To be effective, nitrogen for crops with a high nitrogen requirement like
cover crops should be treated as any other valuable crop on lettuce (Table 4.2.1). Plant legumes in advance of the lettuce
the farm, carefully considering their cultural requirements, life crop to build soil nitrogen, or after to replace the nitrogen
span, mowing recommendations, incorporation methods, and used by the lettuce crop. Legumes have symbiotic bacteria in
susceptibility, tolerance, or antagonism to root pathogens and their roots called rhizobia, which convert atmospheric
other pests. Some cover crops and cash crops share nitrogen gas in the soil pores to ammonium, a form of
susceptibility to certain pathogens and nematodes. Careful nitrogen that plant roots can use. When the cover crop is
planning and monitoring is required when choosing a cover mowed, winter killed, or incorporated into the soil, the
crop sequence to avoid increasing pest problems in the nitrogen is released and available for the next crop. Because
subsequent cash crops. See Tables 3.1 and 3.2 for more most of this nitrogen was taken from the air, there is a net
information on specific cover crops and Section 8: Crop and nitrogen gain to the soil (See Table 3.1). Assume
Soil Nutrient Management for more information about how approximately 50 percent of the nitrogen fixed by the cover
cover crops fit into a nutrient management plan. crop will be available for the crop in the first season, but this
A certified organic farmer is required to plant certified organic will vary depending on factors such as the maturity of the
cover crop seed. If, after contacting at least three suppliers, legume, environmental conditions during decomposition, the
organic seed is not available, then the certifier may allow type of legume grown, and soil type.
untreated conventional seed to be used. Suppliers should It is common to inoculate legume seed with rhizobia prior to
provide a purity test for cover crop seed. Always inspect the planting, but the inoculant must be approved for use in
seed for contamination from weed seeds and return if it is not
2016
organic systems. Request written verification of organic glucosinolate levels that maximize biofumigant activity have
approval from the supplier and confirm this with your been commercialized (e.g. Caliente brand 199 and Nemat).
organic farm certifier prior to inoculating seed.
The management of the cover crops should encourage
Special considerations for lettuce maximum growth. Fertilizer applied to the cover crops will be
Annual field pea is an example of an appropriate legume taken up and then returned to the soil for use by the cash
cover crop for lettuce planted in the early spring or late crop after the cover crop is incorporated. Biofumigant cover
summer. Under the right conditions, field peas can supply up crops like mustard should be allowed to grow to their full
to ~90 pounds of nitrogen per acre after incorporation. size, normally several weeks after flowering starts, but
Avoid hairy vetch if lesion nematode is a problem since both incorporated before the seeds become brown and hard
hairy vetch and lettuce serve as hosts (reference 23). See indicating they are mature. To minimize loss of biofumigant,
more about managing these pests in Section 2: Soil Health. finely chop the tissue early in the day when temperatures are
low. Incorporate immediately by tilling, preferably with a
3.3 Non-legume Cover Crops second tractor following the chopper. Lightly seal the soil
Barley, rye grain, rye grass, Sudangrass, wheat, oats, and other surface using a culti-packer and/or 1/2 inch of irrigation or
grain crops left on the surface as dead plant residues, or rain water to help trap the volatiles and prolong their
plowed under in the spring as green manures, are beneficial persistence in the soil. Wait at least two weeks before
because these plants take up nitrogen that otherwise might be planting a subsequent crop to reduce the potential for the
leached from the soil, and release it back to the soil when as breakdown products to harm the crop, also known as
they decompose. If incorporated, allow two weeks or more phytotoxicity. Scratching the soil surface before planting will
for decomposition prior to planting. release the remaining biofumigant. This biofumigant effect is
not predictable or consistent. The levels of the active
3.4 Combining Legumes and Non-legumes.
compounds and suppressiveness can vary by season, cover
Interseeding a legume with non-legume cover crop combines crop variety, maturity at incorporation, amount of biomass,
the benefits of both. An oat and field pea combination is a fineness of chopping, how quickly the tissue is incorporated,
quick cover crop that can be grown and incorporated in the soil microbial diversity, soil tilth, and microbe population
same season as a lettuce crop. They supply extensive organic density.
matter and nitrogen when incorporated. Growing these cover
crops together reduces the overall nitrogen contribution but Green-chopped Sudangrass, incorporated prior to planting,
is offset by the improvement in soil organic matter. has been shown to suppress root-knot nematodes and
improve lettuce yields. The effect is best when Sudangrass is
3.5 Biofumigant Cover Crops grown for 1 to 2 months, then incorporated before frost
Certain cover crops have been shown to inhibit weeds, (reference 23).
pathogens, and nematodes by releasing toxic volatile Reference
chemicals when tilled into the soil as green manures and Crop Rotations on Organic Farms: A Planning Manual (reference 3).
degraded by microbes or when cells are broken down by Northeast Cover Crops Handbook (reference 22).
finely chopping. Degradation is quickest when soil is warm Cover Crops for Vegetable Production in the Northeast (reference 23).
and moist. These biofumigant cover crops include Cover Crops for Vegetable Growers: Decision Tool (reference 24).
Sudangrass, sorghum-sudangrasses, and many in the brassica
family. Varieties of mustard and arugula developed with high
2016
Table 3.1 Leguminous Cover Crops: Cultural Requirements, Nitrogen Contributions and Benefits.
DROUGHT
FIXED (lb/A)a
PREFERENCE
PREFERENCE
SHADE
NITROGEN
HARDINESS
ZONE HEAT
SOIL TYPE
LIFE CYCLE
PLANTING
SEEDING
(LB/A)
DATES
COLD
pH
SPECIES TOLERANCES COMMENTS
CLOVERS
Alsike April-May Biennial/ 4 5 5 6 6.3 Clay to 4-10 60-119 +Endures waterlogged soils & greater
Perennial silt pH range than most clovers
Berseem Early spring Summer 7 6-7 7-8 5 6.5-7.5 Loam to 9-25 50-95 +Good full-season annual cover crop
annualb/ silt
Winter ann.
Crimson Spring Summer 6 5 3 7 5.0-7.0 Most if 9-40 70-130 +Quick cover
annualb/ well- +Good choice for overseeding (shade
Winter drained tolerant)
annual + Sometimes hardy to zone 5.
Red Very early Short-lived 4 4 4 6 6.2-7.0 Loam to 7-18 100-110 +Strong taproot, good heavy soil
spring or perennial clay conditioner
late summer +Good choice for overseeding (shade
tolerant)
White Very early Long-lived 4 6 7 8 6.2-7.0 Loam to 6-14 <130 +Good low maintenance living cover
spring or perennial clay +Low growing
late summer +Hardy under wide range of
conditions
SWEET CLOVERS
Annual White Very early Summer NFT 6-7 6-7 6 6.5-7.2 Most 15-30 70-90 +Good warm weather smother &
spring annualb catch crop
+Rapid grower
+High biomass producer
Biennial White Early spring- Biennial 4 6 7-8 4 6.5-7.5 Most 9-20 90-170 +Deep taproot breaks up compacted
and Yellow late summer soils & recycles nutrients
+Good catch crop
+High biomass producer
OTHER LEGUMES
Cowpeas Late spring- Summer NFT 9 8 6 5.5-6.5 Sandy 25-120 130 +Rapid hot weather growth
late summer annualb loam to
loam
Faba Beans April-May or Summer 8 3 4 NI 5.5-7.3 Loam to 80-170 71-220 +Strong taproot, good conditioner for
July- August annualb silty clay small compacted soils
seed + Excellent cover & producer in cold
70-300 soils
lg seed +Efficient N-fixer
Hairy Vetch Late August- Summer 4 3 7 5 6.0-7.0 Most 20-40 80-250 +Prolific, viney growth
early Sept. annual/ (110 ave.) +Most cold tolerant of available
Winter ann. winter annual legumes
Field Peas March-April Winter 7 3 5 4 6.5-7.5 Clay 70-220 172-190 +Rapid growth in chilly weather
OR late annual/ loam
summer Sum. annb
NI=No Information, NFT=No Frost Tolerance. Drought, Heat, Shade Tolerance Ratings: 1-2=low, 3-5=moderate, 6-8=high, 9-10=very high.
a Nitrogen fixed but not total available nitrogen. See Section 8 for more information. b Winter killed. Reprinted with permission from Rodale Institute
,http://www.rodaleinstitute.org/, M. Sarrantonio. 1994. Northeast Cover Crop Handbook (reference 22).
2016
Table 3.2 Non-Leguminous Cover Crops: Cultural Requirements and Crop Benefits
Cold Hardiness
Planting dates
Drought
Preference
Preference
Shade
Life Cycle
Soil Type
Heat
Seeding
(Lb/A)
Zone
pH
Species Tolerance Comments
Brassicas April or late Annual / 6-8 4 6 NI 5.3-6.8 Loam to 5-12 +Good dual purpose cover & forage
e.g. mustards, August-early Biennial b clay +Establishes quickly in cool weather
canola Sept. +Biofumigant properties
Buckwheat Late spring- Summer NFT 7-8 4 6 5.0-7.0 Most 35-134 +Rapid grower (warm season)
summer annual b +Good catch or smother crop
+Good short-term soil improver for poor
soils
Cereal Rye August-early Winter annual 3 6 8 7 5.0-7.0 Sandy to 60-200 +Most cold-tolerant cover crop
October clay +Excellent allelopathic weed control
loams +Good catch crop
+Rapid germination & growth
+Temporary N tie-up when turned
under
Fine Fescues Mid March- Long-lived 4 3-5 7-9 7-8 5.3-7.5 Most 16-100 +Very good low-maintenance
mid-May OR perennial (red) permanent cover, especially in infertile,
late Aug.- 5.0-6.0 acid, droughty &/or shady sites
late Sept. (hard)
Oats Mid Sept- Summer 8 4 4 4 5.0-6.5 Silt & 110 +Rapid growth
early annualb clay +Ideal quick cover and nurse crop
October loams
Ryegrasses August-early Winter annual 6 (AR) 4 3 7 (AR) 6.0-7.0 Most 14-35 +Temporary N tie-up when turned
Sept. (AR)/ 4 (PR) 5 (PR) under
Short-lived +Rapid growth
perennial (PR) +Good catch crop
+Heavy N & moisture users
Sorghum- Late spring- Summer NFT 9 8 NI Near NI 10-36 +Tremendous biomass producers in hot
Sudangrass summer Annual b neutral weather
+Good catch or smother crop
+Biofumigant properties
NI-No Information, NFT-No Frost Tolerance. Drought, Heat, Shade Tolerance Ratings: 1-2=low, 3-5=moderate, 6-8=high, 9-10=very high. AR=Annual Rye,
PR=Perennial Rye. b Winter killed. Reprinted with permission from Rodale Institute, www.rodaleinstitute.org, M. Sarrantonio. 1994. Northeast Cover Crop
Handbook (reference 22)
non-certified land. For example, use of high-pressure spray
4. FIELD SELECTION equipment or aerial pesticide applications in adjacent fields
For organic production, give priority to fields with excellent will increase the buffer zone size. Pollen from genetically
soil tilth, high organic matter, good drainage and airflow. engineered crops can also be a contaminant. An organic crop
should not be grown near a genetically engineered crop of the
4.1 Certification Requirements same species. Check with your certifier for specific buffer
Certifying agencies have requirements that affect field requirements. Buffer zones commonly range between 20 and
selection. Fields cannot be treated with prohibited products 250 feet depending on adjacent field practices.
for three years prior to the harvest of a certified organic crop.
4.2 Crop Rotation Plan
Adequate buffer zones are required between certified organic
and conventionally grown crops. Buffer zones must be a A careful crop rotation plan is the cornerstone of organic
barrier, such as a diversion ditch or dense hedgerow, or be a crop production because it allows the grower to improve soil
distance large enough to prevent drift of prohibited materials quality and proactively manage pests. Although growing a
onto certified organic fields. Determining what buffer zone is wide range of crops complicates the crop rotation planning
needed will vary depending on equipment used on adjacent process, it ensures diversity in crop residues in the soil, and a
2016
greater variety of beneficial soil organisms. Individual organic Growing a cover crop, preferably one that includes a legume,
farms vary widely in the crops grown and their ultimate goals, prior to or after a lettuce crop will help to renew soil nitrogen,
but some general rules apply to all organic farms regarding improve soil structure, and diversify soil organisms. Include
crop rotation. Rotating individual fields away from crops deep rooted crops in the rotation to help break up compacted
within the same family is critical and can help minimize crop- soil layers.
specific disease and non-mobile insect pests that persist in the Table 4.2.1 Crop Nutrient Requirements
soil or overwinter in the field or field borders. Pests that are Nutrient Needs
persistent in the soil, have a wide host range, or are wind- Lower Medium Higher
borne, will be difficult to control through crop rotation. Crop Bean Cucumber Broccoli
Conversely, the more host specific, non-mobile, and short- Beet Eggplant Cabbage
lived a pest is, the greater the ability to control it through crop Carrot Brassica greens Cauliflower
rotation. The amount of time required for a crop rotation is Herbs Pepper Corn
based on the particular pest and its severity. Some particularly Pea Pumpkin Lettuce
Radish Spinach Potato
difficult pests may require a period of fallow. See specific
Chard Tomato
recommendations in the disease and insect sections of this Squash
guide (sections 11, 12, 14). Partitioning the farm into Winter squash
management units will help to organize crop rotations and From NRAES publication Crop Rotation on Organic Farms: A Planning
ensure that all parts of the farm have sufficient breaks from Manual, Charles L. Mohler and Sue Ellen Johnson, editors (reference 3).
each type of crop.
Crop rotation information specific to lettuce
A well-planned crop rotation is key to weed management. Growers are encouraged to rotate lettuce with another crop
Short season crops such as lettuce and spinach are harvested whenever possible. This aids in the management of many
before many weeds go to seed, whereas vining cucurbits, with pests that affect lettuce. Double-cropping lettuce on the same
their limited cultivation time and long growing season, allow field may greatly increase problems such as Sclerotinia drop,
weeds to go to seed before harvest. Including short season corky root rot, root-knot nematode, and virus diseases in the
crops in the rotation will help to reduce weed populations second planting. For most diseases, maintaining at least 3
provided the field is cleaned up promptly after harvest. Other years between lettuce crops is recommended, although heavy
weed reducing rotation strategies include growing mulched infestations of pathogens causing diseases like drop may
crops, competitive cash crops, short-lived cover crops, or require longer rotations.
crops that can be intensively cultivated. Individual weed
species emerge and mature at different times of the year, Sclerotinia sclerotiorum (lettuce drop): Broccoli grown
therefore alternating between spring, summer, and fall prior to lettuce helps to reduce lettuce drop. Rotate away
planted crops helps to interrupt weed life cycles. from bean, potato, and pea which are all especially susceptible
to Sclerotinia.
Cash and cover crop sequences should also take into account
the nutrient needs of different crops and the response of Rhizoctonia: Highly susceptible crops include beans, lettuce,
weeds to high nutrient levels. High soil phosphorus and cabbage, and potato. Rotate away from these crops for at
potassium levels can exacerbate problem weed species. A least 3 years. Other host crops include broccoli, kale, radish,
cropping sequence that alternates crops with high and low turnip, carrot, cress, cucumber, eggplant, pepper, and tomato.
nutrient requirements can help keep nutrients in balance. The Cereal crops are not susceptible and are useful for reducing
crop with low nutrient requirements can help use up nutrients Rhizoctonia.
from a previous heavy feeder. A fall planting of a non- Colletotrichum coccodes: Lettuce can be a symptomless
legume cover crop will help hold nitrogen not used by the carrier of the pathogen causing anthracnose in tomato and
previous crop. This nitrogen is then released when the cover black dot in potato.
crop is incorporated in the spring. See Section 3: Cover Crops
and Section 5: Weeds for more information. Root-knot Nematode: This nematode feeds on many plants
including weeds and cover crops. Nutsedge is a weed
Rotating crops that produce abundant organic matter, such as particularly prone to root-knot nematode and hairy vetch is a
hay and grain-legume cover crops, with ones that produce highly susceptible cover crop. Many vegetables also are hosts,
less, such as vegetables, will help to sustain organic matter therefore rotating with sorghum, small grains, or grasses is
levels and promote good soil tilth (see Section 2: Soil Health recommended. Green-chopped Sudangrass, incorporated
and Section 8: Crop and Soil Nutrient Management). Lettuce prior to planting, has been shown to suppress root-knot
generally has a high nutrient requirement (Table 4.2.1). nematodes and improve lettuce yields. The effect is best
2016
when Sudangrass is grown for 1 to 2 months, then to the same pathogens and nematodes. Careful planning and
incorporated before frost (reference 23). See Section 3.5: monitoring is required when double cropping vegetables in
Biofumigant Cover Crops for more information. the same season.
Multiple plantings: The short growing season for lettuce Weeds: Growing a short season crop, like lettuce, helps
makes it a good choice for double cropping with longer reduce the weed population within a field prior to planting
season crops such as cucurbits, tomato, eggplant, pepper, longer season crops which are more prone to weed
beet, carrot, or onion. Residues from the lettuce crop act as a infestations on organic farms.
green manure for subsequent crops. Growing root crops,
such as beets, in rotation with lettuce is common. Fall lettuce Cover crops: Red clover, field peas, bell beans and fava beans
can be planted in the same field as spring peas within the host a related Sclerotinia disease that can infect lettuce, pea and
same growing season. The lettuce benefits from the elevated possibly other plants.
nitrogen provided by the pea crop. While multiple plantings For more details, see Crop Rotation on Organic Farms: A
of vegetable crops may fit well into the rotation, this practice Planning Manual(reference 3)
can increase pest pressures on crops that share susceptibility
Table 4.2.2 Potential Interactions of Crops Grown in Rotation with Lettuce

Potential Rotation
Crops Consequences Comments
Onion, leek, carrot, tomato, Reduced weeds Alternate growing a short season crop such as lettuce with a long-season crop
eggplant, pepper, cucurbits to break weed cycles and make efficient use of fields. An early season lettuce
crop can act as a cover crop for crops planted later in the same season.
Bean, carrot, cabbage, tomato, Increased Sclerotinia Sclerotinia has a wide host range including lettuce, bean, carrot, cabbage,
celery, pea tomato, celery, and pea. Rotate away from these crops for 3 years. Instead
plant sweet corn or grain crops such as barley, oat, wheat, field corn, or grain
cover crops.
Pea, fava bean, bell bean, red Increase Sclerotinia of Sclerotinia trifoliorum can attack a wide range of hosts including lettuce.
clover broadbean
Tomato Increase Colletotrichum Lettuce, cabbage and cress can be silent carriers of this pathogen that causes
coccodes tomato anthracnose and black dot in potato.
Excerpt from Appendix 2 of Crop Rotation on Organic Farms: A Planning Manual (reference 3).
4.3 Pest History populations in heavily infested fields or minimize their

Knowledge about the pest history of each field is important increase in fields that have little to no infestation. Refer to
for planning a successful cropping strategy. For example, Section 12 for more information on nematodes.
germination may be reduced in fields with a history of Pythium 4.4 Soil and Air Drainage
or Rhizoctonia. Avoid fields that contain heavy infestations of
Most fungal and bacterial pathogens need free water on the
perennial weeds such as nutsedge, bindweed, and quackgrass
plant tissue or high humidity for several hours in order to
as these weeds are particularly difficult to control. One or
infect. Any practice that promotes leaf drying or drainage of
more years focusing on weed population reduction using
excess water from the root zone will minimize favorable
cultivated fallow and cover cropping may be needed before
conditions for infection and disease development. Fields
organic crops can be successfully grown in those fields.
with poor air movement, such as those surrounded by
Susceptible crops should not be grown in fields with a history
hedgerows or woods, creates an environment that favors
of Sclerotinia without a rotation of several years with sweet
prolonged leaf wetness. Plant rows parallel to the prevailing
corn or grain crops. Treat with Contans to reduce fungal
winds, which is typically in an east-west direction, and avoid
sclerotia in the soil immediately after an infected crop is
overcrowding to promote drying of the soil and reduce
harvested and/or before planting lettuce.
moisture in the plant canopy.
Lettuce is a favored host for root-knot nematode, Meloidogyne
hapla, and can also host the root lesion nematode, Pratylenchus 5. WEED MANAGEMENT
penetrans, but the degree of damage is not known. Knowing Weed management can be one of the biggest challenges on
whether or not these nematodes are present aids organic farms, especially during the transition and the first
development of cropping sequences that either reduce the several years of organic production. To be successful, use an
2016
integrated approach to weed management that includes crop caused by leaving the soil surface bare, plan to mow and
rotation, cover cropping, cultivation, and planting design, incorporate a heavy cover crop, for example, rye with hairy
based on an understanding of the biology and ecology of vetch, before beginning the fallow. This will leave some small
dominant weed species. A multi-year approach that includes pieces of cover crop residue on the surface to intercept rain
strategies for controlling problem weed species in a sequence drops and create a spongy soil consistency that will absorb
of crops will generally be more successful than attempting to rain and avoid crusting. Avoid hairy vetch in fields with a
manage each years weeds as they appear. Relying on history of lesion nematodes. If planting will be as late as
cultivation alone to manage weeds in an organic system is a August, include a short term cover crop of buckwheat in the
recipe for disaster. fallow to maintain soil organic matter.
Management plans should focus on the most challenging and For early cultivations after planting, use vegetable knives on a
potentially yield-limiting weed species in each field. Be sure, belly mounted cultivator. Set the knives shallow, 1 to 1.5
however, to emphasize options that do not increase other inches below the soil surface, with the blades pointed away
species that are present. Alternating between early and late- from the row. Cultivate as closely as possible. Use sweeps or
planted crops, and short and long season crops in the rotation duck foot shovels with at least 25% overlap to clean weeds
can help minimize buildup of a particular weed or group of out of the inter-row areas and loosen soil behind the tractor
weeds with similar life cycles or growth habits, and will also tires. Cultivate at about 10-day intervals to avoid letting
provide windows for a variety of cover crops. weeds grow larger than 2 inches. To minimize root pruning,
set knives to run as shallowly as possible without creating
5.1 Record Keeping skips. If field preparation has created a highly uniform
Scout and develop a written inventory of weed species and surface, a cultivation depth of 3/4 to 1 inch is
their severity for each field. Accurate identification of weeds sufficient. Continue cultivating until the crop canopy is too
is essential. Weed fact sheets provide a good color reference closed to allow tractor traffic or harvest is imminent. Usually
for common weed identification. See Cornell weed ecology two to three cultivations are sufficient, but note that with
and Rutgers weed gallery websites (references 37-38). lettuce, the objective of weed management is not just
reduction in competition. Untangling grass leaves and
5.2 Weed Management Methods chickweed from lettuce during harvest can add to the cost of
Planting and cultivation equipment should be set up on the labor.
same number of rows to minimize crop damage during
cultivation. Specialized equipment may be needed to To control weeds between plants in the row, hand hoe once,
successfully control weeds in some crops. See the resources typically just after the second machine cultivation, but before
at the end of this section to help fine-tune your weed the biggest weeds are 2 inches tall. The goal is to kill weeds
management system. Reduce disease pressure by planting while they are still small. Hoe soon after cultivation since
lettuce in fields that have been free from weeds that serve as breaking the soil between the rows will ease penetration of
alternate hosts to many lettuce diseases such as dandelion, the hoe. Use a stirrup hoe (shuffle hoe) pulling toward the
prickly lettuce, sowthistles, wild sunflower and common plant stalk. Try to throw about 1 inch of soil in around base
groundsel for two to three years. of the plant to cover small weeds that are too close to the
crop plants to cut with the hoe. For maximum effectiveness,
Heading types of lettuce grown on organic farms should be keep both the edges and curved shoulders of the stirrup blade
transplanted to provide them with an advantage over the sharp. Following the above practices, only one hand hoeing
weeds and to allow for earlier cultivation. See more in Section should be required.
7: Planting. Information on weed control for baby greens is
generally not addressed in this guide. Straw or hay mulch is not recommended for lettuce since the
sharp ends can damage lettuce leaves and it promotes the
If weed pressure is high, precede plantings for late summer or buildup of slugs and snails. If using plastic mulch, cultivate
fall harvest with a one month cultivated fallow to reduce the along the edges of the mulch with hilling discs or rolling
weed seed bank. Till early enough to prevent winter annual gangs and between the plastic beds with overlapping sweeps.
weeds like chickweed and shepherd's purse from going to Hand pull larger weeds growing next to the lettuce plants
seed. Prepare a seed bed by harrowing thoroughly but when the crop is 2/3 through its development.
shallowly at two week intervals until planting time. Use
shallow tillage to prepare the final seedbed to avoid bringing Clean up the field soon after harvest. Lettuce can be an
new weed seeds to the soil surface. A cultivated fallow will effective component in the overall weed control program on
greatly reduce species like pigweed and galinsoga that often a vegetable farm since it is generally harvested before weeds
plague summer plantings. To minimize damage to the soil have time to set seed. It can act as a "cleaning" crop,
2016
reducing the seed bank following weed control failures and Flame Weeding for Vegetable Crops (reference 41)
preceding crops in which weed management is difficult. But Vegetable Farmers and their Weed-Control Machines (reference 42)
to receive these benefits from the lettuce, weeds must be Twelve Steps toward Ecological Weed Management in Organic
Vegetables (reference 43)
destroyed soon after harvest before they can go to seed.
High soil phosphorus and potassium levels can exacerbate 6. RECOMMENDED VARIETIES
problem weed species. For example, high phosphorus Variety selection is important, both for the horticultural
promotes common purslane and high potassium promotes
characteristics specified by the market, and the pest resistance
dandelion. See Section 8 for more information on balancing
profile that will be the foundation of a pest management
nutrients on organic farms.
program. If a field has a known disease history, Table 6.1 can
Resources help to determine which varieties will be more successful in
Crop Rotation on Organic Farms: A Planning Manual (reference 3) reducing disease problems. Consider the market when
Steel in the Field (reference 35) choosing varieties, selecting those with some level of disease
New Cultivation Tools for Mechanical Weed Control in Vegetables resistance if possible.
(reference 36)
Cornell Weed Ecology website (reference 37) A certified organic farmer is required to plant certified organic
New Jersey Weed Gallery (reference 38) seed. If, after contacting at least three suppliers, organic seed
Principles of Sustainable Weed Management for Croplands (reference 39) is not available for a particular variety, then the certifier may
Weed Em and Reap Videos (reference 40) allow untreated conventional seed to be used.
Table 6.1 Disease Resistance in Lettuce Varieties.

Downy Mildew
Lettuce Mosaic
Corky Root Rot
Bacterial Spot
Bottom Rot
Brown Rib
Tip Burn
Bolting
Virus
Drop
Heat
Variety Name (days to harvest) Type Comments

BUTTERHEAD and BIBB
Adriana (48) Butter X X X X X
Escale Bibb X X X
Barracuda Bibb X
Bennett MI (64) Butter X
Buttercrunch (60) 1, 2 Butter X Open pollinated
Ermosa (48) 1, 2 Butter X X X X X
Esmeralda (68) 1, 2 Butter X X X X
Fireball (51) Butter X
Focea (45) Butter X X
Harmony (68) Butter X X X X
Kagraner Sommer 2 Butter X
Kweik (55) Butter X X X
Lucan X X X
Margarita (68) Boston X X X X Open pollinated
Nancy (62) 1 Boston X X Open pollinated
Odyssey MI (62) Butter X X Open pollinated
Optima (68-70) Butter X X X X X Open pollinated
Pirat (55) 2 Butter X X X X Heirloom; red tinged.
Rex (50) Butter X X X Better for greenhouses.
Speckled 2 Butter German heirloom
2016
Downy Mildew
Lettuce Mosaic
Corky Root Rot
Bacterial Spot
Bottom Rot
Brown Rib
Tip Burn
Bolting
Virus
Drop
Heat
Summer Bibb (65) 1 Bibb X X X For hotbed and greenhouse growing
Summer Long Salad Mix X Looseleaf, romaine, butter combination
Sylvesta (52) Bibb X X
Tom Thumb (46) Butter X X Open pollinated
Victoria (45) Butter X X Open pollinated
Winter Density (60) 2 Butter/cos X Open pollinated
BUTTERHEAD - RED
Australe (49) Butter - red X X
Lucan Butter - red X X X
Red Cross (48) 2 Butter - red X X
Roxy (50) Butter - red X X
CRISPHEAD
Fallgreen (70) Crisphead X X X x
Great Lakes (70+) 1 X X Heirloom
Igloo (70) X
Ithaca (72-85) 1 X X X X
Salinas 88 Supreme (50) X
Santa Fe (55) X
Summer Time (75) X X X X Open Pollinated
Sun Devil (60) X X X
LOOSE LEAF - GREEN
Baby Oakleaf (50) Oakleaf X
Berenice (50) Oakleaf X X X
Bergam's Green (57) Loose X X X X
Black Seeded Simpson (44) 2 Loose X X X X X
Deer Tongue (48) Loose X Heirloom
Emerald (50-54) Oakleaf X
Galisse (48) 2 Loose X X Sensitive to short daylength
Grand Rapids (45) 1 Loose X X Open pollinated
Green Bay (48) Loose X
Green Deer Tongue (48) Loose X X Open pollinated
Green Ice (45) Loose X For early plantings. Bolts rapidly
Green Star (52) Loose X X X X
Green Vision (54) Loose X
Heatwave (50-60) Loose X X
Lasting Green MI (65) Loose X X Open pollinated
Lettony (29-51) Loose X Baby or mature
Loma (46) Loose X X Open pollinated
Nevada (28-48) Loose X X X X X Open pollinated, baby or mature head.
2016
Downy Mildew
Lettuce Mosaic
Corky Root Rot
Bacterial Spot
Bottom Rot
Brown Rib
Tip Burn
Bolting
Virus
Drop
Heat
North Star Loose X X
Prizeleaf (48) Loose X X
Reine Des Glaces (57) Batavia X Open pollinated
Royal Oak Leaf (47) 2 Oakleaf X X
Salad Bowl (49) Loose X X
Simpson Elite (41-53) 2 Loose X Open pollinated
Slobolt (50) 1, 2 Loose X X X
Seacrest Oakleaf X
Star Fighter (58) Loose X X X
Sulu (28) Oakleaf X Baby greens
Tango (28-45) Loose X Baby or mature heads
Tehama (53) Loose X X X
Tiara (46) 1 Loose
Tropicana (52) 2 Loose X X X X
Two Star (51) 2 Loose X Open pollinated
Waldmann's Dark Green (60) 1 Loose X X X
Blade (30) Oakleaf X X Baby greens
Bronze Arrowhead 2 Oakleaf
Brunia 2 Oakleaf
Cherokee (48) 2 Loose X X X X
Cocarde (49) 2 Oakleaf X
Continuity (56) Loose X
Antago (30-53) Lollo rossa X
Fides Lollo rossa X
Dark Lolla Rossa (53) Lollo rossa X
De Morges Braun (64) Loose X Open pollinated
Ferrari (44) Oakleaf X
Firecracker (28) Loose X X For baby greens
Flashy 2
Forte red Oakleaf X

Galactic (58) Loose X X
Garrison (28) Oakleaf X For baby greens
Jamai (45) Oakleaf X
Magenta red Loose X X X X X
Malawi (28/51) Oakleaf X
Mascara (65) Loose X Open pollinate
Mercury (55) Loose X
Mottistone (55) Loose X
Nestorix (21-28) Loose X For baby greens
New Red Fire MI (48) 1 Loose X X X X X Open pollinated
2016
Downy Mildew
Lettuce Mosaic
Corky Root Rot
Bacterial Spot
Bottom Rot
Brown Rib
Tip Burn
Bolting
Virus
Drop
Heat
Oscarde (28-55) Oakleaf X
Prizehead (45) 2 Loose X
Ravessa Batavia X X
Red Oakleaf (50) Oakleaf X X X X
Red Sails (45) 1, 2 Loose X X X Open pollinated
Red Salad Bowl (51) 2 Oakleaf X
Red Tide (28/48) Loose X X
Red Velvet (55) Loose Open pollinated
Revolution (48) Lollo rossa X X
Rustica (28/60) Batavia X X
Sierra (50) 1 Batavia
Sunfire (28) Oakleaf X For baby greens
Teide (48) Batavia X
Vulcan (52) 2 Loose X X
High Mowing Salad Blend X Open pollinated
ROMAINE/COS
Brune dHiver 2
Claremont (28-46) Cos X Baby or mature

Coastal Star (65) X X
Dark Green Cos (70) 1
Defender (28) X For baby greens
Freckles Forellenschluss (55) X X
Green Forest (70) X X
Green Towers (70) 1 X
Ideal Cos (75) 1 X X
Jericho (57) 2 X X hybrid
King Henry X
Little Caesar (70) X
Noga X
Paramount (67) X
Parris Island (76) 1 X X
PIC 714 (28-57) X X
Pinecrest X X
Plato II (53) X X
Raptor MI (75) X
Rome 37 X
Rouge d' Hiver (60) 2 X X
Rubicon X X X X X
Tall Guzmaine (65) X X X
Tigress (65) X X X
2016
Downy Mildew
Lettuce Mosaic
Corky Root Rot
Bacterial Spot
Bottom Rot
Brown Rib
Tip Burn
Bolting
Virus
Drop
Heat
Triton (75) X
Valmaine (70) X Open pollinated
Vivian (28/70) 2 X
COS RED
Annapolis (28) Red cos X
Breen (45) X
Eruption (28/50) X X
Red Rosie (28/56) X
Red Zin X X For baby greens
Rubane (28/56) X
Spock (28) X For baby greens
1- Recommended for New York growers in the Cornell Crop and Pest Management Guidelines, 2- Recommended from organic grower experience, X= tolerant or
resistant to the disease or disorder.
(iceberg) lettuce is especially sensitive to heat, although some
7. PLANTING new varieties are more tolerant.
On average, a lettuce crop reaches maturity in 60 days. On
organic farms in New York, lettuce types with a long growing 7.1 Direct Seeding
season should be transplanted, not direct seeded. The small Lettuce will germinate at soil temperatures as low as 320F, but
lettuce seed establishes more slowly than many the optimum and maximum soil temperature is 750F. Above
weeds. Transplanting the crop makes it more competitive 800F, seed will remain dormant until temperatures cool.
relative to weeds and allows earlier cultivation. For lettuce Because lettuce withstands cold temperatures, the season can
crops with a shorter cropping interval, such as baby greens, be extended through use of high tunnels or unheated
direct seeding into a well prepared seedbed is preferable. greenhouses. Early spring plantings, and fall plantings held
Planting information for baby greens is not addressed in this through the winter, target the lucrative early markets.
guide. Once-over harvesting is done on most large commercial
Spacing both between and within rows should allow adequate acreage, so every effort should be made to promote uniform
air movement to minimize grey mold, bottom rot, and drop. maturity. Purchase the best quality seed available to help
Rows generally are spaced about 15 inches apart and in-row ensure uniformity of the crop. Using precision seeding and
spacing is determined by variety and desired size of the coated seed can enhance uniformity. Irrigation immediately
marketed lettuce (see Table 7.0.1). Uniform spacing is following seeding promotes consistent emergence. Where
important for achieving uniform maturity. Growing on 4 irrigation is not possible, deep plowing followed immediately
wide and 4 high raised beds enhances air movement and soil by fitting and seeding is helpful. Washington State University
drying for improved disease control. has information on organic seed treatments (reference 52).
Table 7.0.1 Recommended Spacing 7.2 Transplant Production
Between Row In-row Transplants can be started in the greenhouse in February or
Type (inches) (inches) March, and set out in April. Germination rates are generally
Crisphead 12-24 12-18 better in seed planted the greenhouse than seed planted
directly into the field. Floating row covers over the bed, used
Other lettuce 10-18 10-16
in combination with early transplanting, can produce lettuce
Lettuce is a cool-season crop, and high temperatures, for the early market. A good transplant is healthy, stocky, and
particularly at night, are detrimental, leading to disorders such relatively young. Planting transplants that are at the same
as premature bolting, tipburn, and brown rib. Crisphead stage of growth will help reduce variability at harvest time.
Producing such plants requires good light, proper
2016
temperature, adequate moisture and a uniform, fertile but the NOP limits the chlorine concentration in discharge
planting mix. Maintaining optimum soil temperature and water. If you plan to use chlorine, check with your certifier
moisture will also help to prevent damping-off losses in to determine its proper use. Thoroughly rinse flats after using
seedlings. Harden transplants near the end of their growing sanitizers. Table 7.3.1 lists sanitizers. Use new flats to help
period by reducing water and moving them outside to a avoid carry-over of pathogens if disease was severe the
sheltered area. See Section 7.5: Transplanting. previous season.
Using cell or plug flats will improve transplant uniformity and IPM Strategies in the Greenhouse: Keep the greenhouse weed-
reduce plant shock at field setting. Plug flats are sold based free. Some pathogens survive on weed hosts and then move
upon the number of cells per flat (24 to 800 cell plug trays are to transplants in the greenhouse. Scout greenhouses weekly
available). Generally, the more cells per flat, the smaller the for any sign of disease and remove diseased plants
volume per cell. Selection of cell number depends on several immediately. If a diseased plant is identified in a flat, remove
factors including desired final plant size, fertility options and the whole flat. Control insects that may spread viruses. Keep
the estimated time between seeding and transplanting. Plants foliage as dry as possible to prevent infection. Water in the
grown in smaller cells will require more careful monitoring of morning since foliage is likely to dry quickly during the day.
nutrients and water, but will be ready to transplant sooner. Do not brush against or trim when plants are wet to reduce
Larger cells provide more soil media, and thus more moisture the spread of pathogens.
and nutrients to developing seedlings, but make less efficient
use of greenhouse bench space. If using smaller cells, time Table 7.3.1 Disinfectants
planting to avoid plants from becoming root bound. Lettuce Compound
is commonly grown in flats with 96-200 cells. Seeds are Trade Name
placed singly in individual cells, either by hand or via seeders. Active Ingredient Rate
Table 7.2.1 Optimal Temperatures for Growing Transplants CDG Solution 3000 For surfaces, equipment and
Optimal soil germination temperature 750F (chlorine dioxide) structures: use 1:12 dilution.
Minimum soil germination temperature 320F
Optimal day temperature for transplant growth 60-650F For pots, flats, trays and tools:
Optimal night temperature for transplant 500F use 1:6 dilution.
growth *GreenClean PRO 0.5-2 lbs granular/1000 ft2
Weeks from seeding to planting 3-5 (sodium carbonate
peroxyhydrate)
7.3 Greenhouse Sanitation and Disease Management * Restricted-use pesticide in New York State; may be
The greenhouse environment is favorable for plant purchased and used only by certified applicators
pathogens, and these pathogens are difficult to control.
Use power sprayer to wash all surfaces and remove plant debris and other
Plants can become infected as seedlings without showing organic material before treating. Use to disinfect pots, flats and trays,
symptoms until they are maturing in the field. No single surfaces, equipment and structures.
strategy will prevent greenhouse diseases, however by utilizing
multiple management strategies, damage and losses can be 7.4 Transplant Growing Mix
minimized. A good transplant mix is well drained, has good aeration,
supplies a reserve of nutrients, and provides adequate support
Preseason Sanitation: Clean and disinfect all greenhouse to developing seedlings. Most organic transplant mixes are
tables, benches, floors, hoses, flats, containers or anything based upon a combination of peat moss, vermiculite or perlite
that comes in contact with plants. It is important to and a proportion of stable, cured compost. Soil may be
thoroughly clean, even if there was had no disease last included in an organic mix, but could harbor damping-off
year. Persistent pathogens could still be present and spread pathogens. Organic transplant mixes must not contain any
to healthy transplants under optimal environmental materials prohibited by the NOP, including synthetic
conditions. Clean all seedling flats prior to reuse to remove fertilizers and most wetting agents. Commercial organic
any clinging soil or plant material that may be contaminated potting media is available. See the OMRI Products list for
with fungi capable of causing damping-off in seedlings. At a approved media, wetting agents, and soil amendments
minimum, use soap and water with a stiff brush to wash flats (reference 13).
and then dry thoroughly in a hot greenhouse prior to storage.
Alternatively, flats could be steamed or sanitized prior to use.
Chlorine solutions are probably the most effective sanitizers,
2016
7.5 Transplanting compost, cover crops, or crop residues also provides a food
Prior to field setting, reduce temperature, water, and nutrients source for soil microorganisms and when turned into the soil,
for 3-5 days to harden transplants. Gradually expose them to starts the nutrient cycle again.
direct sunlight in a protected location, while watching to During the transition years and the early years of organic
make sure plants are not stressed. This hardening process production, soil amendment with composts or animal
helps greenhouse-grown transplants develop a thicker leaf manure can be a productive strategy for building organic
cuticle that resists water stress. Hardening also helps plants matter, biological activity and soil nutrient levels. This practice
accumulate the food reserves needed to expand the root of heavy compost or manure use is not, however, sustainable
system after field setting. Over mature or stressed transplants in the long-term. If composts and manures are applied in the
usually resume growth slowly and rarely achieve full yields. amounts required to meet the nitrogen needs of the crop,
To transplant, set plants deep enough to completely cover the phosphorous may be added at higher levels than required by
media of the plug and firm the soil around the plants to most vegetable crops. This excess phosphorous will gradually
minimize water loss from the plug. Apply water using the build up to excessive levels, increasing risks of water pollution
transplanter or irrigate immediately after transplanting, or invigorating weeds like purslane and pigweed. A more
especially if the soil is somewhat dry. High temperatures or sustainable, long-term approach is to rely more on legume
strong drying winds at the time of transplanting contribute to cover crops to supply most of the nitrogen needed by the
delayed recovery and increased plant mortality. If possible, crop and use grain or grass cover crops to capture excess
avoid planting under such conditions or be prepared to nitrogen released from organic matter at the end of the
irrigate immediately. season to minimize nitrogen losses to leaching. See Section 3:
Cover Crops. When these cover crops are incorporated into the
7.6 Planting Dates soil, their nitrogen, as well as carbon, feeds soil
Since lettuce is a short-season crop, it can be grown from microorganisms, supporting the nutrient cycle. Harvesting
early spring into late fall, especially when expanding the alfalfa hay from the field for several years can reduce high
season through use of high tunnels, floating row covers, or phosphorus and potassium levels.
other season extension systems. Cold tolerant lettuce varieties
can be planted as soon as the soil is workable in the spring.
Lettuce varieties vary in their tolerance to heat and cold. See Some soils are naturally high in P and K, or have a history of
Table 6.1 or review seed company information to match manure applications that have resulted in elevated levels.
varieties to the climate conditions. Regular soil testing helps monitor nutrient levels, in particular
phosphorus (P) and potassium (K). Choose a reputable soil-
8. CROP AND SOIL NUTRIENT MANAGEMENT testing lab (Table 8.0.1) and use it consistently to avoid
To produce a healthy crop, sufficient soluble nutrients must discrepancies caused by different soil extraction methods.
be available from the soil to meet the minimum requirements Maintaining a soil pH between 6.3 and 6.8 will maximize the
for the whole plant. The total nutrient needs of a crop are availability of all nutrients to plants.
much higher than just the nutrients that are removed from To assess overall impact of organic matter additions on soil
the field when that crop is harvested. All of the roots, stems, health, consider selecting a few target or problem fields for
leaves and other plant parts require nutrients at specific times soil health monitoring over time via the Cornell Standard Soil
during plant growth and development. Restrictions in the Health Analysis Package. This suite of eight tests complements
supply of required plant nutrients will limit growth and reduce a standard soil chemical nutrient analysis by focusing on
crop quality and yields. biological and physical soil health indicators. While the test
The challenge in organic systems is balancing soil fertility to results will provide feedback on how the soil sample
supply these required plant nutrients at a time and at compares to other New York soils, the real power is in the
baseline readings for comparison in the future after
sufficient levels to support healthy plant growth. Soil
implementing new soil health and nutrient management
microbes decompose organic matter to release nutrients and
strategies.
convert organic matter to more stable forms such as humus.
This breakdown of soil organic matter occurs throughout the
growing season, depending on soil temperatures, water
availability and soil quality. The released nutrients are then
held on soil particles or humus making them available to
crops or cover crops for plant growth. Amending soils with
2016
confirm that the products you select are approved for use in
organic by your certifier prior to field application.
Table 8.0.1 Nutrient Testing Laboratories.
8.2 Preparing an Organic Nutrient Budget
REFERENCES
To create a robust organic fertility management plan, develop
COMPOST/
MANURE
a plan for estimating the amount of nutrients that will be
SOIL
TESTING LABORATORY released from soil organic matter, cover crops, compost, and
The Agro One Lab (Cornell x x 32 manure. As these practices are integrated into field and farm
Recommendations) management, the goal is to support diverse microbial
Agri Analysis, Inc. x 29 communities that will help release nutrients from the organic
A&L Eastern Ag Laboratories, Inc. x x 30 matter additions.
Cornell Soil Nutrient Analysis Lab x 34c Remember that with a long-term approach to organic soil
Penn State Ag Analytical Services Lab. x x 31 fertility, the N mineralization rates of the soil will increase.
University of Massachusetts x x 33 This means that more N will be available from organic
University of Maine x x 34 amendments because of increased soil microbial activity and
diversity. Feeding these organisms different types of organic
matter is essential to building this type of diverse biological
8.1 Fertility community and ensuring long-term organic soil and crop
Recommendations from the Cornell Crop and Pest productivity. Included in the Soil Health Test is an analysis of
Management Guidelines (reference 1) indicate that a lettuce soil protein content. As with the other soil health tests, this
crop requires 80-100 lbs. of available nitrogen (N), 120 lbs. of serves as an indicator of soil management and amendment
phosphorus (P), and 150 lbs. of potassium (K) per acre to history. The test measures organic soil N that is in the form
support a good yield. These levels are based on the total of proteins- an important food source for soil microbes. Use
nutrient needs of the whole plant and assume the use of this test to help monitor impact and target future investments
synthetic fertilizers. Research and grower experience suggests of legume cover crops and compost / manure applications.
that somewhat lower levels may be adequate in organic Estimating total nutrient release from the soil and comparing
systems. See Table 8.2.2 for the recommended rates of N, P, it with soil test results and recommendations requires record-
and K based on soil test results. Nitrogen is not included keeping and some simple calculations. Table 8.2.1 below can
because levels of available N change in response to soil be used as a worksheet for calculating nutrients supplied by
temperature, moisture, N mineralization potential, and the soil compared to the total crop needs. Table 8.2.3
leaching. As much of the nutrients as possible should come estimates common nutrient content in animal manures;
from cover crop, manure, and compost additions in previous however actual compost and manure nutrient content should
seasons. be tested just prior to application. Analysis of other
Develop a plan for estimating the amount of nutrients that amendments, as well as cover crops, can be estimated using
will be released from soil organic matter, cover crops, published values (see Tables 8.2.4 to 8.2.6 and 3.1 for
compost, and manure. A strategy for doing this is outlined in examples). Keeping records of these nutrient inputs and
Section 8.2: Preparing an Organic Nutrient Budget. It is important subsequent crop performance will help evaluate if the plan is
to remember that in cool soils, microorganisms are less active, providing adequate fertility during the season to meet
and nutrient release may be too slow to meet the crop needs. production goals.
Once the soil warms, nutrient release may exceed crop needs.
In a long-term organic nutrient management approach, most
of the required crop nutrients would be in place as organic
matter before the growing season starts. Nutrients required
by the crop in the early season can be supplemented by highly
soluble organic amendments such as poultry manure
composts or organically approved bagged fertilizer products
(see Tables 8.2.4 to 8.2.6). These products can be expensive
so are most efficiently used if banded at planting. The
National Organic Standards Board states that no more than
20% of total N can be applied as Chilean nitrate. Be sure to
2016
Table 8.2.1 Calculating Nutrient Credits and Needs applications 120 days or more before harvest, but your farm
Nitrogen Phosphate Potash certifier may have a more restrictive policy.
(N) (P2O5) (K2O)
lbs/A lbs/A lbs/A
Line 3c. Compost: Estimate that between 10 to 25% of N,
1. Total crop nutrient
80% of the phosphorous and 90% of the potassium
needs contained in most compost is available to the crop the first
2. Recommendations Not year. It is important to test each new mix of compost for
based on soil test provided actual amounts of the different nutrients available. Compost
3. Credits maturity will influence how much N is available. If the
a. Soil organic matter --- material is immature, more N tends to be available to the
---
crop in the first year. A word of caution: using compost to
b. Manure provide for a crops nutrient needs is not generally a
c. Compost financially viable strategy. The high total volume needed can
d. Prior cover crop
be very expensive for the units of N available to the crop,
4. Total credits:
especially if trucking is required. Most stable composts should
be considered as soil conditioners, improving soil health,
5. Additional needs (2-4=)
microbial diversity, tilth, and nutrient retention capacity. .
Also keep in mind that manure-based composts are
Line 1. Total Crop Nutrient Needs: Agricultural research
potentially high in salts that could become a problem if used
indicates that an average lettuce crop requires 80-100 lbs.
yearly. Most compost analyses include a measure of electrical
nitrogen (N), 120 lbs. phosphorus (P), and 150 lbs. potassium
conductivity which indicates level of salts present in the
(K) per acre to support a medium to high yield (see section
finished product. Any compost applied on organic farms
8.1:Fertility above).
must be approved for use by the farm certifier. Compost
Line 2. Recommendations Based on Soil Test: Use Table generated on the farm must follow an approved process
8.2.2 to determine the amount of P and K needed based on outlined by the certifier.
soil test results.
Line 3d. Cover Crops: Estimate that 50 percent of the fixed
Table 8.2.2 Recommended Amounts of Phosphorus and N is released for plant uptake during the season it is
Potassium for Lettuce Based on Soil Tests incorporated. Consult Table 3.1 to estimate the amount of N
Nitrogen Soil Phosphorus Soil Potassium fixed by legume cover crops.
Level Level Level
Level shown in Not low med high low med high

Line 4. Total Credits: Add together the various nutrient
soil test provided values from soil organic matter, compost, and cover crops to
N lbs/A Pounds/A P2O5 Pounds/A K2O estimate the total nutrient supplying potential of the soil (see
Total nutrient 80-100 120 80 40 150 100 50 example below). There is no guarantee that these amounts
recommendation will actually be available in the season, since soil temperatures,
water, and crop physiology all impact the release and uptake
Line 3a. Soil Organic Matter: Using the values from your of these soil nutrients. If the available N does not equal the
soil test, estimate that 20 lbs. of nitrogen will be released from minimum requirement for this crop (80-100 lbs/acre), a side-
each percent organic matter in the soil. For example, a soil dress application of organic N may be needed. There are
that has 2% organic matter could be expected to provide 40 several sources of N for organic side-dressing (see Table
lbs N per acre. 8.2.4) as well as pelleted composts. Early in the organic
Line 3b. Manure: Because lettuce is eaten fresh, the use of transition, a grower may consider increasing the N budget
manure as a nutrient supplement is generally not supply by 25%, to help reduce some of the risk of N being
recommended unless it has been composted with an limiting to the crop.
organically certified process. The NOP rules allow manure
2016
Table 8.2.3 includes general estimates of nutrient availability for manures and composts but these can vary widely depending on
animal feed, management of grazing, the age of the manure, amount and type of bedding, and many other factors. See Table 3.1
for estimates of the nitrogen content of various cover crops. Because lettuce is eaten fresh, manure applications may not be
allowed by your certifier or marketer. Check with both these sources prior to making manure applications.
Table 8.2.3 Estimated Nutrient Content of Common Animal Manures and Manure Composts
TOTAL N P2O5 K2O N1 1 N2 2 P2O5 K2O
NUTRIENT CONTENT LB/TON AVAILABLE NUTRIENTS LB/TON IN FIRST SEASON
Dairy (with bedding) 9 4 10 6 2 3 9
Horse (with bedding) 14 4 14 6 3 3 13
Poultry (with litter) 56 45 34 45 16 36 31
Composted dairy manure 12 12 26 3 2 10 23
Composted poultry manure 17 39 23 6 5 31 21
Pelleted poultry manure 3 80 104 48 40 40 83 43
Swine (no bedding) 10 9 8 8 3 7 7
NUTRIENT CONTENT LB/1000 GAL. AVAILABLE NUTRIENTS LB/1000 GAL FIRST SEASON
Swine finishing (liquid) 50 55 25 25a 20b 44 23
NUTRIENT CONTENT LB/1000 GAL. AVAILABLE NUTRIENTS LB/1000 GAL FIRST SEASON
Dairy (liquid) 28 13 25 14a 11b 10 23
1-N1 is an estimate of the total N available for plant uptake when compost is incorporated within 12 hours of application, 2-N2 is an estimate of the total N
available for plant uptake when manure is incorporated after 7 days. 3 Pelletized poultry manure compost (available in New York from Krehers). a injected, b
incorporated. Table adapted from Using Manure and Compost as Nutrient Sources for Fruit and Vegetable Crops by Carl Rosen and Peter Bierman (reference 27)
and Penn State Agronomy Guide 2015-16 (reference 28)
Tables 8.2.4-8.2.6 lists some commonly available fertilizers, Table 8.2.5 Available Phosphorous in Organic Fertilizers.
their nutrient content. Pounds of Fertilizer/Acre to Provide X
Pounds of P2O5 per Acre
Table 8.2.4 Available Nitrogen in Organic Fertilizer SOURCES 20 40 60 80 100
Pounds of Fertilizer/Acre to Provide X Bonemeal 130 270 400 530 670
Pounds of N per Acre 15% P2O5
Sources 20 40 60 80 100 Rock Phosphate 30% 270 530 800 1100 1300
Blood meal, 13% N 150 310 460 620 770 total P2O5 (x4) a
Soy meal 6% N (x 1.5) a 500 1000 1500 2000 2500 Fish meal, 6% P2O5 330 670 1000 1330 1670
also contains 2% P and 3% (also contains 9% N) (also c
K2O a Application rates for some materials are multiplied to adjust for their slow to very slow
Fish meal 9% N, also 220 440 890 1100 release rates. Adapted by Vern Grubinger from the University of Maine soil testing lab
670
(reference 34).
contains 6% P2O5
Alfalfa meal 2.5% N also 800 1600 2400 3200 4000 Table 8.2.6 Available Potassium in Organic Fertilizers.
contains 2% P and 2% K2O
Pounds of Fertilizer/Acre to Provide X
Feather meal, 15% N (x 200 400 600 800 1000
Pounds of K2O per Acre:
1.5) a
SOURCES 20 40 60 80 100
Chilean nitrate 16% N 125 250 375 500 625
Sul-Po-Mag 22% K2O also 90 180 270 360 450
cannot exceed 20% of
contains 11% Mg also c
crops need.
Wood ash (dry, fine, grey) 400 800 1200 1600 2000
a Application rates for some materials are multiplied to adjust for their slow to very slow 5% K2O, also raises pH 5% K2
release rates. Adapted by Vern Grubinger from the University of Maine soil testing lab
(reference 34). Alfalfa meal 2% K2O 1000 2000 3000 4000 5000
also contains 2.5% N also c
Greensand or Granite dust 8000 16000 24000 32000 40000
1% K2O (x 4) a 1% K2O (x 4)*
Potassium sulfate 40 80 120 160 200
50% K2O
a Application rates for some materials are multiplied to adjust for their slow
to very slow release rates. Adapted by Vern Grubinger from the University of
Maine soil testing lab (reference 34).
2016
An example of how to determine nutrient needs for lettuce. added by applying 135 lbs./A of Sul-Po-Mag, broadcast and
You will be growing an acre of leaf lettuce. The Cornell Crop then incorporated (Table 8.2.6).
and Pest Management Guidelines suggests a total need of 80-
Additional Resources
100 lb. N, 120 lb. P, and 150 lb. K per acre to grow a high Using Organic Nutrient Sources (reference 34a)
yielding crop. Soil tests show a pH of 6.0, with high P. Determining Nutrient Applications for Organic Vegetables
Looking at table 8.2.2, this means 40 lbs P205/A is (reference 34b)
recommended. Potassium levels are medium according to the
soil test, therefore 100 lbs K20/A are recommended. The
field has 2% organic matter. Last fall 3 tons/acre of 9. HARVESTING
composted dairy manure were spread and immediately
incorporated prior to planting a cover crop of oats. Nutrient Care in harvesting and handling is important for lettuce crops
credits for soil organic matter, composted dairy manure, and since they are easily damaged.
cover crops appear in Table 8.2.7. Table 9.0 Average Days to Harvest for Lettuce Types
Average days to harvest
Lettuce Type after seeding
Table 8.2.7 Lettuce Example: Calculating Nutrient Credits Crisphead 70-80
and Needs Based on Soil Test Recommendations. Butter and Bibb 50-60
Nitrogen Phosphate Potash Romaine 60-70
(N) (P2O5) (K2O)
Leaf 50-60
lbs/acre lbs/acre lbs/acre Reference 12a
1. Total crop nutrient 80-100 120 150
needs: 9.1 Harvest Methods
2. Recommendations # not 40 100 Crisphead: Harvest when the full-sized head can be slightly
based on soil test provided compressed with moderate hand pressure. Loose heads are
3. Credits immature, and overly hard heads are past maturity. Over
a. Soil organic matter 40 --- --- mature heads tend to lack flavor and have increased
2% postharvest problems. Leave 3 to 4 wrapper leaves to protect
b. Manure the heads. Properly harvested and trimmed heads should
c. Compost dairy 9 30 69 have a bright green color and be crisp.
manure 3T/A
d. Cover crop oat - - - Romaine: Harvest romaine when mature heads have about 35
4. Total credits: 49 30 69 leaves per head after trimming, and are not too loose or tight.
5. Additional needed 40 10 31 Romaine loses its flavor when over mature, and has more
(2-4) = postharvest problems. The marketable head should have
brightly colored outer leaves. Romaine hearts are the tender
Estimate nitrogen first. Each percent organic matter will inner leaves trimmed from plants that are slightly immature.
release about 20 lbs of N, so the 2% organic matter will Leaves of all harvested lettuce should be crisp and free from
supply 40 lbs/A (line 3a). Line 3c is calculated using Table insect, decay, or mechanical damage. Varieties differ in flavor
8.2.3 which indicates about 9 lbs N will be released in the first at maturity, so consider the desires of the target market when
season from the 3 tons/A of composted dairy manure (N1). choosing varieties to plant (reference 12b).
The total estimated N released and available for plant uptake Freeze damage to leaves can cause subsequent decay in many
is 49 lbs per acre (line 4). Line 5 suggests that 40 lbs/A of N lettuce types. Damage can occur in storage if temperatures
is still needed, which can be added by side-dressing with 1,000 drop below 31.7F. Damaged tissue looks water-soaked and
lbs/A of soy meal. will deteriorate after thawing (reference 12b).
Phosphorus and potassium will also need to be See US Department of Agriculture standards for
supplemented. Looking at P, the compost supplies 30 of the Lettuce grades (reference 12c).
40 lbs/A recommended based on the soil test. Apply 65 Field grown leaf lettuce (reference 12d).
lbs/A of bonemeal to meet the 10 lb/A phosphorus deficit
(Table 8.2.5). About 70 lbs/A of the potassium needs are 9.2 Storage
supplied by the composted dairy manure out of the 100 Non-crisphead varieties are more susceptible to damage
lbs/A recommended. The remaining 30 lbs K2O/A can be during harvest and transit and therefore have a shorter shelf
life than crisphead varieties. Optimum storage conditions are
2016
32F with at least 95 percent relative humidity. Air flow Practices can be used to identify and possibly reduce
through and around boxes is essential. Vacuum cooling is microbial risks.
effective at quickly reducing the field temperature of the
produce, but forced-air cooling can also be successful Implementing just a few simple practices can reduce risks
significantly. One of these is to wash hands prior to any
(reference 1 and 12b). Rapid cooling will improve market
contact with the crop using potable water and sanitizer,
quality and shelf life. Use top ice during packaging to supply
particularly after using the restroom or eating. Do not
moisture and remove heat. Always use ice made from potable
allow workers who are ill to handle produce. If they are
water.
able to work, assign jobs that do not involve contact with
Average Shelf-life Average Shelf-life produce or customers. Prevent animals or animal manure
Lettuce Type at 32F at 41F from contacting produce, by discouraging animals
(including pets) from entering production fields and by
Crisphead 21-28 14
not using irrigation water that may have been
Romaine 21 days 14 contaminated with manure. Manure must be properly
Leaf and butterhead 7-14 na composted or applied well in advance of harvesting a
References 12a and 12b fresh market crop such as lettuce, but check with your
certifier or marketer for separate restrictions for manure
9.3 Microbial Food Safety use on lettuce. Ensure that picking containers are clean
Attention to microbial food safety is important for crops that and free from animal droppings. Following these steps can
are eaten raw. Continuing produce-associated foodborne dramatically reduce risks of pathogen contamination.
illness outbreaks have resulted in many buyers requiring the Conduct a full assessment of your farm to identify other
implementation of food safety practices on the farm and the high risk practices.
development of the first ever produce safety regulations as
part of the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA).
Pathogens can contaminate food during all phases of The Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) will apply
production, harvesting, and packing. Wild and domesticated to farms that grow, harvest, pack or hold most fruits and
animals, manure, irrigation water, inadequate worker hygiene, vegetables when those fruits and vegetables are in an
unclean picking containers, unsanitized post-harvest water, unprocessed state, and will govern practices affecting:
water, worker hygiene, manure and other soil additions,
and unclean packaging materials are all potential vectors of
animals in the growing area, and equipment, tools and
microbiological contaminants. Growers should conduct a buildings When the FSMA is finalized, the Food and
risk assessment to identify microbial hazards and then Drug Administration (FDA) will be mandated to enforce
implement appropriate practices to reduce risks. There are preventive control measures, and to conduct inspections
many resources available to help including those at the across the food supply system. Updates and
National GAPs Program (reference 10) or the Produce Safety information on this proposed rule are available at the
Alliance (reference 10a). Regardless of farm size, United States Food and Drug Administrations Food
commodities or cultural practices, Good Agricultural Safety Modernization Act webpage.
2016
At the time this guide was produced, the following materials were available in New York State as sanitizers allowable for organic production. Listing
a pest on a pesticide label does not assure the pesticides effectiveness. The registration status of pesticides can and does change. Pesticides must
be currently registered with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) to be used legally in NY. However, pesticides
meeting the federal requirements for minimum-risk (25(b)) pesticides do not require registration. Current NY pesticide registrations can be checked
on the Pesticide Product, Ingredient, and Manufacturer System (PIMS) website (Link 2). ALWAYS CHECK WITH YOUR CERTIFIER before using a new
product.
Table 9.3.1 Rates for Sanitizers for Postharvest Carrots and/or Postharvest Facilities
Active ingredient Uses
Product name Food contact Hard surface, non- Vegetable surface (spray Vegetable rinse water
surfaces1 food contact1 or drench)
chlorine dioxide
CDG Solution 3000 50 ppm solution 500 ppm dilution - 5 ppm solution
Oxine2 100 ppm solution 500 ppm solution In tanks, use a 5 ppm solution;
for process waters use a
- chemical feed pump or other
injector system at 3 fl oz per
10 gal water.3
Pro Oxine2 50-200 ppm 500 ppm solution
- -
solution
hydrogen peroxide/peroxyacetic acid
Enviroguard - 2.5-20 fl oz/5 gal
1 fl oz/20 gal water 1 fl oz/20 gal water
Sanitizer water
Oxonia Active 1-1.4 oz/4 gal water 1 oz/8 gal water. - -
Peraclean 5 1-1.5 fl oz/5 gal
- - -
water
Peraclean 15 0.33 fl oz/5 gal
- - -
water
Perasan A 1-6.1 oz/6 gal - 4 oz/20 gal water -
Per-Ox 1-2.25 fl oz/5 gal 1-10 fl oz/15 gal
1 fl oz/5 gal water 1 fl oz/5 gal water
water water
SaniDate 5.0 1.6 fl oz/ 5 gal 1.6 fl oz/ 5 gal 59.1 to 209.5 fl oz/ 1,000 59.1 to 209.5 fl oz/ 1,000
water water gallons water gallons water
SaniDate 12.0 - - 25.6 to 89.6 fl oz / 1,000 25.6 to 89.6 fl oz / 1,000
gallons water gallons water
Shield-Brite PAA 5.0 1.6fl oz/5 gal water 1.6fl oz/5 gal water 59.1 to 209.5 fl. 59.1 to 209.5 fl. oz./1,000 gal
oz./1,000 gal water water
Shield-Brite PAA 25.6 to 107 fl.oz/1,000 25.6 to 107 fl.oz/1,000 gal
12.0 gal water water
StorOx 2.0 1:220 1:1,000 dilution
(on process/packing
0.5 fl oz/1 gal water 0.5 fl oz/1 gal water line); .035-0.58 fl.
oz./gal water (post-
harvest spray treatment)
Tsunami 100 2.5-6.7 fl oz/100 gal 2.5-6.7 fl oz/100 gal water
- -
water
Victory - - 1 fl oz/16.4 gal water 1 fl oz/16.4 gal water
VigorOx 15 F & V 0.31-0.45 fl oz/5 gal 1.1-9.5 fl oz/5 gal 1 fl oz/ 16 gal water as 0.54 fl oz/ 16 gal water
water- water - spray or dip (processing water)
VigorOx LS-15 0.31-0.45 fl oz/5 gal 1.1-9.5 fl oz/5 gal
- -
water water
sodium hypochlorite
San-I-King No. 451 100 ppm chlorine in
- - -
solution
1. Thoroughly clean all surfaces and rinse with potable water prior to treatment. 2. Requires acid activator. 3. After treatment, rinse
with potable water.
2016
pesticide. At the time of publication, the pesticides

10. USING ORGANIC PESTICIDES mentioned in this guide meet New York State
Given the high cost of many pesticides and the limited Department of Environmental Conservation (NYS DEC)
amount of efficacy data from replicated trials with requirements for use in New York State. See Cornells
organic products, the importance of developing an Product, Ingredient, and Manufacturer System website
effective system of cultural practices for insect and (reference 11) for pesticides currently registered for use in
disease management cannot be emphasized strongly NYS. Additional products may be available for use in
enough. Pesticides should not be relied on as a other states.
primary method of pest control. Scouting and To maintain organic certification, products applied must
forecasting are important for detecting symptoms of also comply with the National Organic Program (NOP)
pests at an early stage. When conditions do warrant an regulations as set forth in 7 CFR Part 205, sections 600-
application, proper choice of materials, proper timing, 606 (reference 18). The Organic Materials Review Institute
and excellent spray coverage are essential. (OMRI) (reference 13) is one organization that reviews
products for compliance with the NOP regulations and
10.1 Sprayer Calibration and Application
publishes lists of compliant products, but other entities
Calibrating sprayers is especially critical when using also make product assessments. Organic growers are not
organic pesticides since their effectiveness is sometimes required to use only OMRI listed materials, but the list is a
limited. For this reason, they tend to require the best good starting point when searching for allowed pesticides.
spraying conditions to be effective. Read the label
carefully to be familiar with the unique requirements of Finally, farms grossing more than $5,000 per year and
some products, especially those with live biocontrol labeling products as organic must be certified by a NOP
organisms as their active ingredient (e.g. Contans). The accredited certifier who must approve any material applied
active ingredients of some biological pesticides (e.g. for pest management. ALWAYS check with the certifier
Serenade ) are actually a metabolic by product of the before applying any pest control products. Some certifiers
organism. Calculating nozzle discharge and travel speed will review products for NOP compliance.
are two key components required for applying an
accurate pesticide dose per acre. Applying too much Note that "home remedies" may not be used. Home
pesticide is illegal, can be unsafe and is costly, while remedies are products that may have properties that
applying too little can fail to control pests or lead to reduce the impact of pests. Examples of home remedies
pesticide resistance. include the use of beer as bait to reduce slug damage in
strawberries or dish detergent to reduce aphids on plants.
Resources These materials are not regulated as pesticides, are not
Calibrating Backpack Sprayers (reference 45) exempt from registration, and are therefore not legal to
Cornell Crop and Pest Management Guidelines: Pesticide use.
Information and Safety (reference 46)
Pesticide Environmental Stewardship: Calibration (reference 47) Do you need to be a certified pesticide applicator?
Knapsack Sprayers General Guidelines for Use (reference 48) The Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide
Herbicide Application Using a Knapsack Sprayer (reference 49) This Act (FIFRA) defines two categories of pesticides:
publication is also relevant for non-herbicide applications.
Pesticide Environmental Stewardship, Coop Extension (reference
general-use and-restricted use. NYS DEC also defines
49a) additional restricted-use pesticides. Pesticide
Pesticide Environmental Stewardship, CIPM (reference 49b) applicator certification is required to purchase and use
Vegetable Spraying (reference 49c) restricted-use pesticides. Restricted-use pesticides
mentioned in this guide are marked with an asterisk
(*). Farmers who purchase and use only general-use
10.2 Regulatory Considerations pesticides on property they own or rent do not need
Organic production focuses on cultural, biological, and to be certified pesticide applicators. However, we do
mechanical techniques to manage pests on the farm, but encourage anyone who applies pesticides to become
in some cases pesticides, which include repellents, allowed certified.
for organic production are needed. Pesticides mentioned
in this organic production guide are registered by the Worker Protection Standard training. If the farm
United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) or has employees who will be working in fields treated
meet the EPA requirements for a minimum risk with a pesticide, they must be trained as workers or
handlers as required by the federal Worker Protection
2016
Standard (WPS). Having a pesticide applicator mentioned in this publication meeting this criteria are
certification is one of the qualifications needed to be a noted with a bee symbol ( ).
WPS trainer. Certified pesticide applicators meet the
WPS training requirements. For more information on For more information on pollinator protection, visit
www.epa.gov/opp00001/ecosystem/pollinator/index.html
the Worker Protection Standard see: How To Comply
and pesticidestewardship.org/PollinatorProtection/Pages/
with the Worker Protection Standard (reference 21b). default.aspx
See Revisions To the Worker Protection Standard for
a summary of new worker protection standards that 10.4 Optimizing Pesticide Effectiveness
will take effect January 2017. Find more information Information on the effectiveness of a particular pesticide
on pesticide applicator certification from the list of against a given pest can sometimes be difficult to find.
State Pesticide Regulatory Agencies (reference 21c) or, Some university researchers include pesticides approved
in New York State, see the Cornell Pesticide for organic production in their trials; some
Management Education Program website manufacturers provide trial results on their web sites;
at http://psep.cce.cornell.edu (reference 21d). some farmers have conducted trials on their own.
Efficacy ratings for pesticides listed in this guide were
10.3 Pollinator Protection
summarized from university trials and are only provided
Honey bees, wild bees, and other insects are important
for some products. The Resource Guide for Organic
for proper pollination of many crops. Poor pollination
Insect and Disease Management (reference 2) provides
results in small or odd-shaped fruit as well as low
efficacy information for many approved materials.
yields.
In general, pesticides allowed for organic production may
To avoid harming bees with insecticides, remember kill a smaller percentage of the pest population, could
these general points: have a shorter residual, and may be quickly broken down
Always read the label before use. in the environment. Microbial-based products often have
Do not spray blooming crops; a shorter shelf life than other products, so be sure to use
Mow blooming weeds before treatment or them by the expiration date. Read the pesticide label
spray when the blossoms are closed; carefully to determine if water pH or hardness will
Avoid application during the time of day negatively impact the pesticides effectiveness. Use of a
when bees are most numerous; and surfactant may improve organic pesticide performance.
Make application in the early morning or Check the OMRI Products List for adjuvants, under
evening. Crop Management Tools and Production Aids (reference 13).
Regular scouting and accurate pest identification are
If pesticides that are highly toxic to bees are used in essential for effective pest management. Thresholds used
strict accordance with label directions, little or no for conventional production may not be useful for
harm should be done to bees. Label statements on organic systems because of the typically lower percent
pesticides that are highly toxic to honey bees may mortality and shorter residual of pesticides allowed for
carry a caution statement such as: This product is organic production. When pesticides are needed, it is
highly toxic to bees exposed to direct treatment or important to target the most vulnerable stages of the
residues on blooming crops or weeds. Do not apply pest. The use of pheromone traps or other monitoring or
this product or allow it to drift to blooming crops or prediction techniques can provide an early warning for
weeds if bees are visiting the treatment area. pest problems, and help effectively focus scouting
efforts. When using pesticides, be sure you have
In early 2015 the EPA proposed new pollinator sufficient coverage to provide adequate control. Consult
protection label language to protect managed bees the pesticide label for guidance.
under contract pollination services. The intent of this
new language is to protect bees from contact exposure
to pesticides that are acutely toxic to bees. Once the 11. DISEASE MANAGEMENT
new language is finalized, pesticide labels will include In organic systems, cultural practices form the basis of a
the new wording and requirements. As part of this disease management program. Promote plant health by
proposal, EPA identified certain active ingredients maintaining a biologically active, well-structured,
that are acutely toxic to bees. Active ingredients adequately drained and aerated soil that supplies the
requisite amount and balance of nutrients. Choose
varieties resistant to important diseases whenever
2016
possible (see Section 6: Varieties). Plant only clean, infected plants during scouting is possible on a small
vigorous and pathogen-free seed or transplants and farm operation. Accurate identification of disease
maintain the best growing conditions possible. problems, especially recognizing whether they are caused
by a bacterium or fungus, is essential for choosing an
Rotation is an important management practice for
effective control strategy. Anticipate which diseases are
pathogens that overwinter in soil or crop debris. Rotating
likely to be problems that could affect yield and be ready
between crop families is useful for many diseases, but
to take action as soon as symptoms are seen. Allowing
may not be effective for pathogens with a wide host
pathogen populations to build can quickly lead to a
range, such as Pythium, Rhizoctonia, and Sclerotinia.
situation where there are few or no options for control.
Rotation with a grain crop, preferably a crop or crops
that will be in place for one or more seasons, deprives All currently available fungicides allowed for organic
many disease-causing organisms of a host, and also production are protectants, meaning they must be
contributes to a healthy soil structure that promotes present on the plant surface before disease inoculum
vigorous plant growth. The same practices are effective arrives to effectively prevent infection. They have no
for preventing the buildup of root damaging nematodes activity on pathogens once they are inside the plant.
in the soil, but keep in mind that certain grain crops are Biological products must be handled carefully to keep
also hosts for some nematode species. See more on crop the microbes alive. Follow label instructions carefully to
rotation in Section 4.2: Crop Rotation Plan. achieve the best results.
Other important cultural practices can be found under Contact your local cooperative extension office to see if
each individual disease listed below. Maximizing air newsletters and pest management updates are available
movement and leaf drying is a common theme. Many for your region. For example, in western New York, the
plant diseases are favored by long periods of leaf Cornell Vegetable Program offers subscriptions to VegEdge,
wetness. Any practice that promotes faster leaf drying, a report that gives timely information regarding crop
such as orienting rows parallel to the prevailing wind, development, pest activity and control. Enrollment in
using a wider row spacing, or controlling weeds can slow the Eastern New York Commercial Horticulture Program
disease development. Fields surrounded by trees or includes a subscription to Produce Pages and weekly
brush that tend to hold moisture after rain, fog or dew seasonal newsletters for vegetables, tree fruit, grapes and
should be avoided. small fruit. On Long Island, see the Long Island Fruit and
Vegetable Update.
Scouting fields weekly is key to early detection and
evaluation of control measures. The earlier a disease is Organic farms must comply with all regulations
detected, the more likely it can be suppressed with regarding pesticide applications. See Section 10: Using
organic fungicides. When available, scouting protocols Organic Pesticides for details. ALWAYS check with your
can be found in the sections listed below for each organic farm certifier when planning pesticide
individual disease. While following a systematic scouting applications.
plan, keep watch for other disease problems. Removing
At the time this guide was produced, the following materials were available in New York State for managing this pest and were allowable for
organic production. Listing a pest on a pesticide label does not assure the pesticides effectiveness. The registration status of pesticides can and
does change. Pesticides must be currently registered with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) to be used legally
in NY. However, pesticides meeting the federal requirements for minimum-risk (25(b)) pesticides do not require registration. Current NY pesticide
registrations can be checked on the Pesticide Product, Ingredient, and Manufacturer System (PIMS) website (Link 2). ALWAYS CHECK WITH
YOUR CERTIFIER before using a new product.
Table 11.0.1 Pesticides for Disease Management in Organic Lettuce
Anthracnose
Damping-off
Bottom Rot
Gray Mold
Mildew
Viruses
Downy
Drop
CLASS OF COMPOUND
Product name active ingredient
MICROBIAL
Actinovate AG Streptomyces lydicus X X X X X X
Actinovate STP Streptomyces lydicus X X
BIO-TAM Trichoderma asperellum, Trichoderma gamsii X X
2016
Anthracnose
Damping-off
Bottom Rot
Gray Mold
Mildew
Viruses
Downy
Drop
CLASS OF COMPOUND
Product name active ingredient
BIO-TAM 2.0 Trichoderma asperellum, Trichoderma gamsii X X X
Contans WG Coniothyrium minitans X
Double Nickel 55 Biofungicide Bacillus amyloliquefaciens str. D747 X X X X
Double Nickel LC Biofungicide Bacillus amyloliquefaciens str. D747 X X X X
Mycostop Biofungicide Streptomyces griseoviridis X X
Mycostop Mix Streptomyces griseoviridis X
Optiva Bacillus subtilis str. QST 713 X
Prestop Biofungicide Gliocladium catenulatum str. J1446 X X X
Regalia Biofungicide Reynoutria sachalinensis X X
RootShield Granules Trichoderma harzianum X X
RootShield PLUS+ Granules Trichoderma harzianum str. T-22, X X
Trichoderma virens str. G-41
Rootshield WP Trichoderma harzianum Rifai str. KRL-AG2 X X
RootShield PLUS+ WP Trichoderma harzianum str. T-22, Trichoderma X X
virens str. G-41
Serenade ASO Bacillus subtilis str QST 713 X X
Serenade MAX Bacillus subtilis str QST 713 X X
Serenade SOIL Bacillus subtilis str QST 713 X X
Serenade Opti Bacillus subtilis str QST 713 X
X
SoilGard Gliocladium virens X X
Taegro Biofungicide Bacillus subtilis X
Taegro ECO Bacillus subtilis X X
BOTANICAL
Trilogy neem oil X X X
COPPER
Badge X2 copper oxychloride, copper hydroxide X X
Basic Copper 53 basic copper sulfate - X
ChampION++ copper hydroxide X
Cueva Fungicide Concentrate copper octanoate X X
Nordox 75 WG copper hydroxide X
Nu-Cop 50 WP copper hydroxide X
Nu-Cop 50DF copper hydroxide X
Nu-Cop HB cupric hydroxide X
OIL
PureSpray Green mineral oil X
Organic JMS Stylet Oil paraffinic oil X
Organocide 3-in-1 sesame oil X
MilStop potassium bicarbonate X X X
OTHER
Agricure potassium bicarbonate X X X
Green Cure potassium bicarbonate X X X
OxiDate 2.0 hydrogen dioxide, peroxyacetic acid X X
PERpose Plus hydrogen peroxide/dioxide X X X X X X
TerraClean 5.0 hydrogen dioxide, peroxyacetic acid X X X
X Product for use on lettuce in New York state and OMRI listed.
Active ingredient meets EPA criteria for acute toxicity to bees
2016
11.1 Anthracnose, Microdochium panattonianum

Time for concern: Cool wet weather favors this fungus.
Key characteristics: Water-soaked, circular spots first appear on the undersides of leaves that when dry, give a shot hole
appearance. These spots are often angular in shape, bounded by the larger leaf veins. Lesions on the midrib begin as water-
soaked spots, but become markedly sunken. Young plants can be killed and older plants disfigured. The fungus survives in the
soil and on crop debris and is spread locally by wind and rain (Reference 50).
Relative Risk: sporadic and normally of minor importance
Management Option Recommendation for Anthracnose
Scouting/thresholds Scouting: Look for spots on the outermost foliage and along the midrib on the lower leaf surface.
Thresholds for organic production have not been established.
Crop rotation Maintain a minimum of 1 year without lettuce or other susceptible crops.
Resistant varieties Anthracnose affects most lettuce varieties.
Planting Plant rows in the direction of the prevailing winds to promote quick drying of plants.
Seed selection This pathogen is seed-borne. Plant disease-free seed. See reference 52 for treatment options for
seed lots with suspected infestations.
Weed control Remove alternate host weeds in the genus Lactuca such as prickly lettuce and wild lettuce, from
areas in and around lettuce fields. Do not cultivate when plants are wet to reduce the spread of
disease.
Cultural controls Wet weather and irrigation provide conditions conducive to spore production and dispersal.
Ground level irrigation is preferred over sprinklers. Irrigate early in the day when sun or wind are
likely to dry leaves quickly. Avoid working in fields when the foliage is wet.
Harvest Packing infected plants with healthy ones can spread disease.
Postharvest The fungus survives in the soil and on crop debris. Fields should be deep plowed after harvest to
bury infested plant debris.
At the time this guide was produced, the following materials were available in New York State for managing this pest and were allowable for organic production.
Listing a pest on a pesticide label does not assure the pesticides effectiveness. The registration status of pesticides can and does change. Pesticides must be
currently registered with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) to be used legally in NY. However, pesticides meeting the federal
requirements for minimum-risk (25(b)) pesticides do not require registration. Current NY pesticide registrations can be checked on the Pesticide Product,
Ingredient, and Manufacturer System (PIMS) website (Link 2). ALWAYS CHECK WITH YOUR CERTIFIER before using a new product.
Table 11.1 Pesticides for Management of Anthracnose
Class of Compounds
Product Name (Active PHI2 REI
Ingredient) Product Rate (Days) (Hours) Efficacy Comments
Actinovate AG (Streptomyces 3-12 oz/acre 0 1 or ? The label recommends use of a spreader
Lydicus WYEC 108) until sticker.
dry
Agricure (potassium 2-5 lb/acre 0 1 ?
bicarbonate)
Badge X2 (copper hydroxide, 0.75-1.5 lb/acre 0 48 ?
copper oxychloride)
Milstop (Potassium 2-5 lb/acre 0 1 ?
bicarbonate)
2016
Table 11.1 Pesticides for Management of Anthracnose

PERpose Plus (hydrogen 1 fl.oz./ gal - until ? For initial or curative use, apply higher rate for
peroxide) (initial/curative) dry 1 to 3 consecutive days. Then follow with
weekly/preventative treatment.
PERpose Plus (hydrogen 0.25-0.33 fl.oz./ gal - until ? For weekly or preventative treatments, apply
peroxide) (weekly/preventative) dry lower rate every five to seven days. At first
signs of disease, use curative rate then resume
weekly preventative treatment.
Trilogy ( neem oil) 0.5-1% solution up to 4 ? Apply no more than 2 gallons of Trilogy per
day acre per application. Bee Hazard. This product
is toxic to bees exposed to direct contact
PHI = pre-harvest interval, REI = restricted entry interval - = pre-harvest interval isn't specified on label Efficacy: 1- effective in half or more of recent university
trials, 2- effective in less than half of recent university trials, 3-not effective in any known trials, ?- product for use on lettuce, but efficacy not known. 2Note that
when the REI is longer than the PHI, Worker Protection Standard requirements may necessitate waiting until after REI to harvest.
11.2 Botrytis Gray Mold, Botrytis cinerea

Time for concern: The fungus grows within a wide range of temperatures, but is favored by cool (65o to 75oF), moist
conditions, either in greenhouses or field locations. Plants are susceptible at all stages.
Key characteristics: Gray mold is especially common in the cool moist conditions of greenhouses or high tunnels. Symptoms
of affected seedlings are similar to those of damping-off. The pathogen initially develops on damaged or dead tissue when wet,
or tissue that is touching soil. It can then spread to adjacent healthy tissue. Initial symptoms are brownish to black water-soaked
lesions that become a mushy rot. The pathogen can spread from lesions on the margins of outer leaves to the stem. Profuse gray-
brown conidia (spores) develop and may be followed by black resting bodies (sclerotia). Affected plant parts rapidly turn soft and
rot. The fungus can also grow up the stem and rot the inside of a head causing the plant to collapse before any outward
symptoms are visible. Infection can spread through heads after harvest affecting marketability. The gray mold fungus is
widespread, surviving on the dead or dying tissue of many plants. Consequently management is largely dependent on selecting
sites and planting dates which provide warmer and drier conditions. View photos (reference 2, page 93, reference 55 and reference
1).
Relative Risk: Gray mold is one of the three most important diseases of head lettuce, particularly in greenhouse or high tunnel
lettuce. Because the fungus is ubiquitous, the risk of gray mold can be widespread dependent on favorable weather conditions.
Management Option Recommendation for Gray Mold
Scouting/thresholds Scout plantings weekly. Thresholds for organic production have not been established.
Site selection Select a well-drained field with good air flow that will help dry leaves and soil quickly.
Crop rotation Rotation alone will not manage this ubiquitous fungus, although it may help reduce the pathogen
population.
Resistant varieties Resistant varieties are not known.
Seed This fungus is not seed-borne.
Planting Orient rows parallel to the prevailing winds and use wide row spacing to encourage quick drying of
leaves and soil. Plant in fields where crop debris is well decomposed at planting time. Wounded
transplants are more prone to gray mold development: transplant before seedlings are large and
overly mature. Since Romaine is particularly susceptible, direct seeding is recommended over
transplanting.
Weed control Avoid wounding plants during early cultivation to prevent infection.
2016
Management Option Recommendation for Gray Mold

Cultural controls Maintain low moisture and humidity levels in greenhouse and high tunnel production. Strict hygiene
is essential in plant bed and greenhouse settings
Harvest Trim off affected leaves. Keep harvested plants refrigerated between 32oF and 36oF.
Postharvest Plow under debris after harvest.
Note(s) Avoid use of overhead irrigation to prevent extended periods of leaf wetness. If watering is
necessary, irrigate early in the day when sun or wind are more likely to quickly dry leaves. Damage
from frost, heat or other disease can predispose lettuce to infection by Botrytis cinerea as can
physiological disorders such as tipburn.
Table 11.2 Pesticides for Management of Botrytis Gray Mold
Class of Compounds Product PHI2 REI
Name (Active Ingredient) Product Rate (Days) (Hours) Efficacy Comments
Actinovate AG (Streptomyces 3-12 oz/acre 0 1 or ? The label recommends use of a spreader sticker.
ydicus WYEC 108) until
dry
Agricure (potassium bicarbonate) 2-5 lb/acre 0 1 ?
Milstop (potassium bicarbonate) 2-5 lb/acre 0 1 ?
MycoStop (Streptomyces 0.1% solution by - 4 ? Only provides suppression of botrytis. Apply to
grieoviridis str. K61) weight runoff. Labeled only for greenhouse use.
Oxidate 2.0 (hydrogen dioxide, 128 fl oz/100 gal 0 until ? Apply consecutive applications until control is
peroxyacetic acid) water dry achieved and then follow directions for
preventative treatment. Bee Hazard. This product
Oxidate 2.0 (hydrogen dioxide, 32 fl oz/100 gal 0 until ? Begin when plants are small. Apply first three
peroxyacetic acid) water dry treatments using the curative rate at 5-day
intervals. Reduce to preventative rate after the
completion of the third treatment and maintain 5-
day interval spray cycle. Bee Hazard. This product
PERpose Plus (hydrogen 1 fl.oz./ gal - until ? For initial or curative use, apply higher rate for 1 to
peroxide) initial/curative dry 3 consecutive days. Then follow with
0.25-0.33 fl.oz./ weekly/preventative treatment.
gal For weekly or preventative treatments, apply
weekly/prevent lower rate every five to seven days. At first signs of
ative disease, use curative rate then resume weekly
preventative treatment.
Prestop (Gliocladium 1.4-3.5 oz/ 2.5 - 0 ? Treat only the growth substrate when above-
catenulatum) gal water soil ground harvestable food commodities are present.
treatment
2016
Table 11.2 Pesticides for Management of Botrytis Gray Mold

Trilogy ( neem oil) 0.5-1% solution up to 4 ? Apply no more than 2 gallons of Trilogy per acre
day per application. Bee Hazard. This product is toxic
to bees exposed to direct contact
PHI = pre-harvest interval, REI = restricted entry interval. - = pre-harvest interval isn't specified on label.
Efficacy: 1- effective in half or more of recent university trials, 2- effective in less than half of recent university trials, 3-not effective in any known trials, ?-
product for use on lettuce, but efficacy not known. 2Note that when the REI is longer than the PHI, Worker Protection Standard requirements may necessitate
waiting until after REI to harvest.
11.3 Bottom Rot and Wirestem, Rhizoctonia solani

Time for concern: Warm, wet conditions favor this fungus. It is most prevalent soon after planting and as heads begin to form.
Key characteristics: Bottom rot and wirestem are two phases of the same disease.
Bottom rot is generally seen in late plantings near the time of harvest, on leaves that are in direct contact with the soil. Rust-
colored lesions appear on the leaf midrib and may expand to the whole leaf. Lesions turn brown and desiccate when conditions
are dry, but will resume infection when moisture increases. Bottom rot symptoms are similar to other fungal infections. Lettuce
drop has white mycelium, but bottom rot does not, and gray mold has gray spore masses which are absent in bottom rot. The
fungus overwinters in the soil or on decaying plants as either mycelia or sclerotia. See photo (reference 56) and reference 50.
Wirestem is a late damping-off disease. See Section 11.4.
Relative Risk: Bottom rot is one of the most important fungal diseases of lettuce.
Management Option Recommendation for Bottom Rot and Wirestem
Scouting/thresholds Scout plantings weekly. Thresholds have not been established for organic production.
Site selection Select a well-drained field with good air flow to encourage quick drying of leaves and soil. In fields
with a history of bottom rot, use 4 raised beds to create a drier field situation. Do not plant in fields
with a significant quantity of incompletely decomposed crop residues.
Crop rotation Rotate away from lettuce and endive for a minimum of 3 years. Cover crops in the grass family will
help to reduce the pathogen population in the soil. Highly susceptible alternate hosts include beans,
lettuce, cabbage, and potato, although many others are hosts too including broccoli, carrot, cress,
cucumber, eggplant, endive, escarole, kale, pepper, potato, radish, tomato, and turnip.
Seed selection This disease is not seed-borne.
Resistant varieties A few resistant varieties are available (see Section 6: Varieties). Upright varieties are less susceptible
because their leaves do not touch the soil.
Planting Plant in widely spaced rows, parallel with the prevailing winds to encourage quick leaf drying.
Weed control Control weeds to improve air flow and shorten leaf wetness periods throughout the field. Many
common weeds serve as alternate hosts: barnyardgrass, field bindweed, annual bluegrass, wild
buckwheat, corn chamomile, chickweed, large crabgrass, green foxtail, goosegrass, field horsetail,
kochia, common lambsquarters, prickly lettuce, Venice mallow, black medic, common milkweed,
mouseear, wild mustard, eastern black nightshade, common purslane, shepherds purse, tumble
pigweed, redroot pigweed, prostrate pigweed, common ragweed, Italian ryegrass, perennial
sowthistle, and witchgrass (reference 3).
Cultural controls Planting on raised beds improves air circulation and can reduce disease incidence. Avoid use of
overhead irrigation to prevent extended periods of leaf wetness especially near the time of harvest.
2016
Management Option Recommendation for Bottom Rot and Wirestem

Postharvest Deep plow to bury plant debris after harvest. Sclerotia do not survive well at deep soil depths, and
the pathogen is less likely to come into contact with host plants.
Table 11.3 Pesticides for Management of Bottom Rot
Class of Compounds Product PHI2
Name (Active Ingredient) Product Rate (Days) REI (Hours) Efficacy Comments
Actinovate AG (Streptomyces lydicus 3-12 oz/acre soil 0 1 or until ?
WYEC 108) treatment dry
BIO-TAM (Trichoderma asperellum, 1.5-3 oz/1000 row feet - 1 ?
Trichoderma gamsii) in-furrow treatment
BIO-TAM (Trichoderma asperellum, 2-3 lb/acre band - 1 ?
Trichoderma gamsii)
BIO-TAM 2.0 (Trichoderma 2.5-5 lb/acre - 4 ?
asperellum, Trichoderma gamsii)
Double Nickel 55 (Bacillus 0.125-1 lb/acre soil 0 4 ?
amyloliquefaciens str D747) treatment
Double Nickel LC (Bacillus 0.5-4.5 pts/acre soil 0 4 ?
PERpose Plus (hydrogen peroxide) 1 fl.oz./ gal - until dry ? For initial or curative use, apply
(initial/curative) higher rate for 1 to 3
0.25-0.33 fl.oz./ gal consecutive days. Then follow
(weekly/preventative) with weekly/preventative
treatment.
For weekly or preventative
treatments, apply lower rate
every five to seven days. At first
signs of disease, use curative
rate then resume weekly
Prestop (Gliocladium catenulatum) 1.4-3.5 oz/ 2.5 gal water - 0 ? Treat only the growth substrate
soil drench when above-ground harvestable
food commodities are present.
RootShield Granules (Trichoderma 2.5-6 lb/half acre in- - 0 ?
harzianum) furrow treatment
RootShield PLUS+ Granules 2.5-6 lb/half acre in- - 0 ?
(Trichoderma harzianum, furrow treatment
Trichoderma virens)
RootShield PLUS+ WP (Trichoderma 0.25-1.5 lb/ 20 gal water 0 4 ? Do not apply when above-
harzianum, Trichoderma virens) dip ground harvestable food
commodities are present.
RootShield PLUS+ WP (Trichoderma 16-32 oz/acre in-furrow 0 4 ? Do not apply when above-
harzianum, Trichoderma virens) treatment ground harvestable food
2016
Table 11.3 Pesticides for Management of Bottom Rot

Class of Compounds Product PHI2
Name (Active Ingredient) Product Rate (Days) REI (Hours) Efficacy Comments
RootShield WP (Trichoderma 16-32 oz/acre - until dry ? In-furrow or transplant starter
harzianum) solution.
Serenade Soil1 (Bacillus subtilis str 2-6 qt/acre soil drench 0 4 ?

QST 713)
Soilgard (Gliocladium virens) 1/2-2 lb/100 gal water - 0 ? At transplant.
Soilgard (Gliocladium virens) 2-10 lb/acre - 0 ? Used as a directed spray or
drench at the base of the plant
after transplanting.
Taegro (Bacillus subtilis) 2.6 oz/100 gal water in- - 24 ? Soil drench or over furrow at
furrow treatment time of planting.
Taegro ECO (Bacillus subtilis var. 2.6-5.2 oz/acre in-furrow - 24 ? In furrow with seed or at
amyloliquefaciens str. FZB2) treatment planting.
TerraClean 5.0 (hydrogen dioxide, 128 fl.oz./100 gal water up to 0 ? Soil treatment prior to
peroxyacetic acid) Soil treatment day seeding/transplanting.
TerraClean 5.0 (hydrogen dioxide, 25 fl.oz./ 200 gal water up to 0 ? Soil drench with established
peroxyacetic acid) soil drench day plants.
product for use on lettuce, but efficacy not known. 1Serenade Opti and Serenade ASO (labeled for foliar and soil uses) will be the only formulations in the
future. Formulations may differ in efficacy, especially older and newer ones. 2Note that when the REI is longer than the PHI, Worker Protection Standard
requirements may necessitate waiting until after REI to harvest.
11.4 Damping-off, Pythium spp., Rhizoctonia solani

Time for concern: Most common when conditions are excessively moist such as in a site that drains poorly in combination
with cool temperatures that slow seed germination and early plant growth.
Key characteristics: These soil borne fungi are present in most soils, but are often kept in balance by other beneficial fungi in
well-managed, biologically active soils. They can kill seeds and young seedlings. Damping-off is expressed as seed decay, rot of
newly germinated roots, and infections of seedling stems at the soil line after emergence. See the Compendium of Lettuce
Diseases (reference 50.)
Relative risk: Although rarely seen, given the right conditions, plantings can be severely reduced especially in early spring in
direct seeded fields.
Management Option Recommendation for Damping-off
Seed selection Because fresh seed is generally more vigorous than older seed, plants from fresh seeds may grow
faster and exit the highly susceptible seedling state sooner.
Site selection Avoid compacted, heavy, or poorly drained soils. High levels of decomposing organic matter can
increase damping-off and reduce germination rates.
Weeds Several weeds host Pythium: wild-proso millet, shattercane, barnyardgrass, quackgrass, and yellow
foxtail (reference 3).
2016
Table 11.4 Pesticides for Management of Damping-off
Actinovate AG (Streptomyces lydicus 3-12 oz/acre 0 1 or ?
WYEC 108) soil treatment until
dry
Actinovate AG (Streptomyces lydicus 2-18 oz/acre 0 1 or ? 2-18 oz/4 oz water per acre of seed (seed
WYEC 108) seed treatment until spray). 2-18 oz/acre of seed (hopper box
dry dry coating).
Actinovate STP (Streptomyces lydicus) 4-32 oz/cwt seed - 1 or ?
seed treatment until
dry
BIO-TAM (Trichoderma asperellum, 1.5-3 oz/ 1000 row - 1 ?
Trichoderma gamsii) feet in-furrow
treatment
BIO-TAM (Trichoderma asperellum, 2-3 lb/acre band - 1 ?
Trichoderma gamsii)
BIO-TAM 2.0 (Trichoderma asperellum, 2.5-5 lb/acre - 4 ?
Trichoderma gamsii)
Double Nickel 55 (Bacillus 0.125-1 lb/acre soil 0 4 ?
Double Nickel LC (Bacillus 0.5-4.5 pts/acre soil 0 4 ?
MycoStop (Streptomyces grieoviridis .176 oz/ 1.5 lbs - 4 ? Greenhouse use only. Provides
str K61) seed suppression.
seed treatment
MycoStop (Streptomyces grieoviridis .07 oz/ 100-200 sq - 4 ? Greenhouse use only. Provides
str K61) ft soil treatment suppression. Irrigate within 6 hours after
soil spray or drench with enough water to
move Mycostop Biofungicide into the root
zone.
MycoStop Mix (Streptomyces 0.015-0.03 oz/lb - 4 ?
grieoviridis str K61) seed
seed treatment
MycoStop Mix (Streptomyces 0.0175-0.07 oz/ 100 - 4 ?
grieoviridis str K61) sq ft soil treatment
PERpose Plus (hydrogen peroxide) 1 fl oz/ gal - until ? For initial or curative use, apply higher rate
initial/curative dry for 1 to 3 consecutive days. Then follow
0.25-0.33 fl oz/ gal with weekly/preventative treatment.
weekly/preventative For weekly or preventative treatments,
apply lower rate every five to seven days.
At first signs of disease, use curative rate
then resume weekly preventative
treatment.
2016
Table 11.4 Pesticides for Management of Damping-off

Prestop (Gliocladium catenulatum) 1.4-3.5 oz/ 2.5 gal - 0 ? Treat only the growth substrate when
water soil drench above-ground harvestable food
RootShield Granules (Trichoderma 2.5-6 lb/half acre in- - 0 ?
harzianum) furrow treatment
RootShield PLUS+ Granules 2.5-6 lb/half acre - 0 ?
(Trichoderma harzianum, Trichoderma in-furrow treatment
virens)
RootShield PLUS+ WP (Trichoderma 0.25-1.5 lb/ 20 gal 0 4 ? Do not apply when above-ground
harzianum, Trichoderma virens) water dip harvestable food commodities are present.
16-32 oz/acre in-
furrow treatment
RootShield WP (Trichoderma 16-32 oz/acre - until ? In-furrow or transplant starter solution.
harzianum) dry
Soilgard (Gliocladium virens) 0.5-2 lb/100 gal - 0 ? Before transplanting, apply 4 fl oz of
water soil drench finished drench per plant in flats 1 week
prior to transplanting. At transplanting,
apply 4-8 fl oz of finished drench in each
transplant hole.
Soilgard (Gliocladium virens) 2-10 lb/acre - 0 ? Used as a directed spray or drench at the
base of the plant after transplanting.
TerraClean 5.0 (hydrogen dioxide, 128 fl.oz./100 gal up to 0 ? Soil treatment prior to
peroxyacetic acid) water soil day seeding/transplanting.
treatment
PHI = pre-harvest interval, REI = restricted entry interval. - = pre-harvest interval isn't specified on label. Efficacy: 1- effective in half or more of recent university
11.5 Downy Mildew, Bremia lactucae

Time for concern: Ideal conditions for disease development include night temperatures of 43 to 500F and day temperatures of
55 to 700F with 100% humidity or long periods of leaf wetness. As temperatures increase, the disease subsides.
Key characteristics: Downy mildew first appears on leaves as light green lesions, turning yellow and chlorotic. Older lesions are
tan and papery. White sporangia and spores emerge on the underside of leaves and provide an avenue for other pathogens to
enter. Downy mildew overwinters in New York on decomposing residue of infected plants. Spores can be spread by winds. See
Cornell photo (reference 57).
Relative Risk: Downy mildew is sporadic but very destructive when present. Plants are susceptible at all stages of growth.
Management Option Recommendation for Downy Mildew
Scouting/thresholds Thresholds for organic production have not been established.
Site selection Select a well- drained field with good air flow that encourages leaves and soil to dry quickly
especially for early and late season plantings. Plant in fields where crop debris is well decomposed at
planting time.
2016
Management Option Recommendation for Downy Mildew

Crop rotation Crop rotation is the first line of defense. Rotate away from lettuce for a minimum of 2 to 3 years.
Seed selection This fungus is not seed-borne.
Resistant varieties Breeding resistant varieties is a challenge since the fungus readily produces new races. See resistant
varieties in Section 6.
Planting Orient rows parallel with the prevailing winds and use wide row spacing to promote quick drying of
leaves and soil.
Cultural practices Avoid overhead irrigation to prevent extended periods of leaf wetness. If watering is necessary,
irrigate early in the day when sun or wind are likely to dry leaves rapidly.
Weed control Control alternate hosts such as perennial sowthistle, annual sowthistle, and prickly lettuce
(reference 3). Control weeds to improve air flow and shorten leaf wetness periods throughout the
field.
Postharvest Plow, rather than disk, to deeply bury diseased crop residue.
Table 11.5 Pesticides for Management of Downy Mildew
Class of Compounds
Actinovate AG (Streptomyces 3-12 oz/acre 0 1 or ? The label recommends use of a spreader
lydicus WYEC 108) until sticker.
dry
Agricure (potassium 2-5 lb/acre 0 1 ?
bicarbonate)
Badge X2 (copper hydroxide, 0.75-1.5 lb/acre 0 48 ?
copper oxychloride)
Basic Copper 53 (basic copper 1-1.9 lb/acre up to 48 ? Copper will leave a visible residue on
sulfate) day leaves.
ChampION++ (copper 0.75-1.5 lb/acre 0 48 ?
hydroxide)
Cueva Fungicide Concentrate 0.5-2 gal/acre up to 4 ? Use lower rate for copper-sensitive lettuce
(copper octanoate) day varieties.
Double Nickel 55 (Bacillus 2-3 lb/acre 0 4 ?
amyloliquefaciens str D747)
Double Nickel LC (Bacillus 0.5-6 qt/acre foliar spray 0 4 ?
Milstop (potassium 2-5 lb/acre 0 1 ?
bicarbonate)
Nordox 75 WG (cuprous 0.66-1.25 lb/acre - 12 ?
oxide)
2016
Table 11.5 Pesticides for Management of Downy Mildew

Class of Compounds
Nu-Cop 50 WP (copper 1-2 lb/acre 1 24 ? Copper will leave a visible residue on
hydroxide) leaves.
Nu-Cop 50DF (copper 1-2 lb/acre 1 48 ? Copper will leave a visible residue on
hydroxide) leaves.
Nu-Cop HB (copper 1/2-1 lb/acre - 48 ? Copper will leave a visible residue on
hydroxide) leaves.
Organocide (sesame oil) 1-2 gal/100 gal water 0 0 ? 25(b) pesticide.
Oxidate 2.0 (hydrogen 128 fl oz/100 gal water 0 until ? Apply consecutive applications until control
dioxide, peroxyacetic acid) Curative dry is achieved and then follow directions for
32 fl oz/100 gal water
Begin when plants are small. Apply first
Preventative
three treatments using the curative rate at
5-day intervals. Reduce to preventative
rate after the completion of the third
treatment and maintain 5-day interval
spray cycle. Bee Hazard. This product is
toxic to bees exposed to direct contact
PERpose Plus (hydrogen 1 fl.oz./ gal - until 3 For initial or curative use, apply higher rate
peroxide) initial/curative dry for 1 to 3 consecutive days. Then follow
0.25-0.33 fl.oz./ gal with weekly/preventative treatment.
weekly/preventative For weekly or preventative treatments,
apply lower rate every five to seven days.
At first signs of disease, use curative rate
then resume weekly preventative
treatment. Hydrogen peroxide effective in
0/1 trial.
Regalia (Reynoutria 0.5-4 qt/acre 0 4 ?
sachalinensis)
Serenade ASO1 (Bacillus 2-6 qt/acre 0 4 ?

subtilis str QST 713)
Serenade MAX1 (Bacillus 1-3 lb/acre 0 4 ?

subtilis str QST 713)
Taegro ECO (Bacillus subtilis 2.6-5.2 oz/acre - 24 ?
var. amyloliquefaciens str.
FZB2)
Trilogy ( neem oil) 0.5-1% solution Up to 4 ? Apply no more than 2 gallons of Trilogy per
day acre per application. Bee Hazard. This
product is toxic to bees exposed to direct
contact.
product for use on lettuce, but efficacy not known. 1Serenade Opti and Serenade ASO (labeled for foliar and soil uses) will be the only formulations in the
2016
11.6 Drop, Sclerotinia sclerotiorum, Sclerotinia minor

Time for concern: This fungus is favored by warm, wet conditions and is primarily noticed at or near crop maturity, but may
occur at any time during the season.
Key characteristics: Also referred to as lettuce drop, white mold, or watery soft rot. The fungus attacks the petioles of outer
leaves that contact soil causing the outer leaves to wilt. It quickly progresses inward until the entire plant wilts. Look for soft
watery decay, snowy white mycelium, and hard, seed-size, black sclerotia (Sclerotinia minor sclerotia are the size of mustard seed;
Sclerotinia sclerotiorum are the size of pea seed). Sclerotia drop to the ground from decaying plant tissue where they can remain
dormant for up to 5 years. Under favorable conditions, the fungus becomes active and spreads throughout soil. Preventing a
buildup of the sclerotia in the soil is important, but can be difficult since Sclerotinia has many plant hosts. View University of
California fact sheet (reference 58) and Cornell photo(reference 59) and reference 50.
Relative risk: Sclerotinia drop is one of the three most serious fungal diseases of lettuce, found wherever inoculum is present
and weather is warm and wet. It can cause the entire plant to collapse in days.
Management Option Recommendation for Drop
Site selection Growers who experience only occasional outbreaks during seasons of prolonged wet weather can
adequately control lettuce drop with practices that promote quick leaf drying such as controlling
weeds, planting in areas of good air movement and adequate drainage. Avoid fields with a history of
Sclerotinia infections in other crops.
Crop rotation Sclerotinia has a wide host range, making it difficult to manage with crop rotation alone. Under low to
moderate disease pressure, a 3-year rotation with non-hosts, particularly grains such as corn, cereal,
or forage grass is best, although rotations with onions and potatoes can also be used. In severe
situations, a 5-year rotation is necessary. Drop has many hosts including weeds and vegetables such
as carrots, cabbage, beans, tomatoes and celery. It is a major disease of chicory and endive.
Although broccoli can be an alternate host for Sclerotinia, research has shown that planting late-
season lettuce after a spring broccoli crop decreases the amount of lettuce drop if the broccoli
residue is incorporated prior to planting. A biofumigant mustard cover crop may have a similar effect.
See Section 3.5: Biofumigant Cover Crops.
Resistant varieties A few varieties have shown some tolerance to lettuce drop. See section 6: Varieties.
Seed selection This fungus is not seed-borne, but the seed-like fruiting structures (sclerotia) can contaminate seed
lots. Do not plant seed if contaminated.
Planting Orient rows with the prevailing winds and use wide row spacing to encourage quick drying of leaves
and soil. Plant in fields where crop debris is well decomposed at planting time.
Weed control Control weeds to improve air flow and shorten leaf wetness periods throughout the field. Weed
hosts of S. sclerotiorum include common chickweed, green foxtail, common lambsquarters, prickly
lettuce, wild mustard, eastern black nightshade, field pennycress, redroot pigweed, wild radish,
common ragweed, shattercane, annual sowthistle, common sunflower, and Canada thistle. S. minor
is hosted by yellow nutsedge (reference 3).
Cultural controls Too much nitrogen causes excess quick growing tissue which is more susceptible to lettuce drop.
Remove infected plants to prevent spread throughout the field.
Harvest Trim outer leaves before packing to avoid spreading rot in storage. Refrigerate plants after harvest.
Postharvest Immediately plow under plant residues after harvest. For extreme cases, flood the field between
crops for 23-45 days to reduce inoculum. Flooding causes spores to release when no host is present.
2016
Management Option Recommendation for Drop

Note(s) Avoid use of overhead irrigation to prevent extended periods of leaf wetness. If watering is
necessary, irrigate early in the day when leaves are likely to dry quickly in the sun and wind.
Table 11.6 Pesticides for Management of Drop
Actinovate AG (Streptomyces 3-12 oz/acre 0 1 or 3 The label recommends use of a spreader
lydicus WYEC 108) until sticker. Streptomyces lydicus products
dry effective in 0/2 trials. Foliar spray and soil
treatment.
Bio-Tam 2.0 (Trichoderma 2.5-5 lb/acre - 4 ?
asperellum, Trichoderma
gamsii)
Contans WG (Coniothyrium 2 lb/acre soil - 4 2 Contans effective in 9/22 trials. See label for
minitans) treatment specific use instructions.
Double Nickel 55 (Bacillus 0.25-3 lb/acre foliar 0 4 ? Make second application at thinning or
amyloliquefaciens str D747) spray cultivation in sufficient water and multiple
nozzles to ensure thorough coverage of
lower leaves and surrounding soil surface.
Incorporation with light irrigation after
application may improve disease control.
Repeat at 10-14 day intervals if conditions
promoting disease persist.
Double Nickel 55 (Bacillus 0.125-1 lb/acre band 0 4 ? Banded seedline treatment.
Double Nickel LC (Bacillus 0.5-4.5 pts/acre band 0 4 ? Banded seedline treatment.
Double Nickel LC (Bacillus 0.5-6 qt/acre foliar 0 4 ? Make second application at thinning or
amyloliquefaciens str D747) spray cultivation in sufficient water and multiple
nozzles to ensure thorough coverage of
lower leaves and surrounding soil surface.
Incorporation with light irrigation after
application may improve disease control.
Repeat at 10-14 day intervals if conditions
promoting disease persist.
Optiva (Bacillus subtilis str. QST 14-24 oz/acre 0 4 ? Repeat applications on 10-14 day intervals if
713) conditions for disease development persist.
Foliar spray and soil treatment.
PERpose Plus (hydrogen 1 fl.oz./ gal - until ? For initial or curative use, apply higher rate
peroxide) initial/curative dry for 1 to 3 consecutive days. Then follow with
weekly/preventative treatment.
PERpose Plus (hydrogen 0.25-0.33 fl.oz./ gal - until ? For weekly or preventative treatments,
peroxide) weekly/preventative dry apply lower rate every five to seven days. At
first signs of disease, use curative rate then
resume weekly preventative treatment.
2016
Table 11.6 Pesticides for Management of Drop

Regalia (Reynoutria 0.5-4 qt/acre 0 4 ?
sachalinensis)
Serenade ASO1 (Bacillus subtilis 2-6 qt/acre 0 4 ? Foliar spray and soil treatment.
str QST 713)
Serenade MAX1 (Bacillus subtilis 1-3 lb/acre 0 4 ? Foliar spray and soil treatment.
str QST 713)
Serenade Opti 1 (Bacillus subtilis 14-20 oz/acre 0 4 ? Foliar spray and soil treatment.
str QST 713)
Serenade Soil1 (Bacillus subtilis 2-6 qt/acre Soil 0 4 ?

str QST 713) treatment
Taegro ECO (Bacillus subtilis var. 2.6-5.2 oz/acre in- - 24 ? In furrow with seed or at planting.
amyloliquefaciens str. FZB2) furrow treatment
product for use on lettuce, but efficacy not known. 1 Serenade Opti and Serenade ASO (labeled for foliar and soil uses) will be the only formulations in the
11.7 Aster Yellows aster yellows phytoplasma, vectored by the aster leafhopper.
Time for concern: June through September; the occurrence of aster yellows (AY) follows the migration pattern of leafhoppers
(Section 14.1).
Key characteristics: The disease is caused by a unicellular phytoplasma which overwinters in the body of the aster leafhopper as
well as in perennial and biennial host plants, particularly grains. The disease is transmitted during leafhopper feeding. Leafhoppers
must feed on an infected plant for about 8 hours to ingest enough phytoplasma to become infective, and can remain infectious
for nearly 100 days. Symptoms include strikingly yellowed, blanched, or chlorotic leaves. Leaves are short and thick in the middle
of the head, and the outside leaves become yellow, bitter, and unmarketable. See photo (reference 60), factsheet (reference 61)
and reference 50.
Relative risk: Aster yellows causes plants to be severely stunted and yellowed, making them unmarketable. Damage varies from
year to year according to the level of aster leafhopper present.
Management Option Recommendations for Aster Yellows

Site selection Do not plant in fields with a previous history of aster yellows. Weeds surrounding these fields often
harbor the pathogen.
Crop rotation The aster yellows phytoplasma has a wide host range, including lettuce, carrot, escarole, endive, and
celery. The aster leafhopper tends to overwinter on wheat, rye, barley and some grasses, therefore
plant lettuce away from grain fields grown during the previous season. Over 300 species of plants are
susceptible, including many ornamentals (reference 3).
Seed selection Aster yellows phytoplasma is not seed-borne.
2016
Management Option Recommendations for Aster Yellows

Weed control Weed hosts are the primary site where the disease overwinters. Control alternate weed host
reservoirs including wild chicory, dandelion, fleabane, galinsoga, wild lettuce, plantain, common
purslane, common ragweed, shepherds purse, perennial sowthistle, Russian thistle, Canada thistle,
and many others (reference 3). Ornamental hosts include gladiolus, poppy, chrysanthemum, phlox,
and veronica.
Postharvest Plow under lettuce fields immediately after harvest to reduce inoculum for future crops.
Note(s) See aster leafhopper section (14.1) for management strategies of this important disease vector.
11.8 Lettuce Viruses, Lettuce Mosaic Virus (LMV), Cucumber Mosaic Virus (CMV), Broadbean Wilt Virus
(BBWV), transmitted by aphids
Time for concern: Aphids can carry inoculum into and from fields during the entire season, especially when plantings overlap.
Key characteristics: See factsheet (reference 61), photo (reference 62) and reference 50.
LMV: Symptoms of LMV vary considerably depending on the age of the plant at infection, the variety, and temperature.
"Mother" plants, grown from infected seeds, show mosaic symptoms, stunting, and lack of development as early as the
seedling stage. They serve as an initial source of virus which is then spread by aphids to other plants. Secondary infected
plants show mosaic, leaf puckering, yellow-green mottling, and deep or accentuated serration of the leaf margins, with leaf
lettuce showing these symptoms most notably. Leaf edges may turn brown and die. Holding young leaves up to the sun
illuminates brown flecks in the smaller veins. Roll back of leaves is especially diagnostic in crisphead varieties.
CMV: Symptoms of CMV are similar to LMV, but the mosaic is more pronounced than LMV. Veinal browning and necrosis
occurs when temperatures are in the mid-50's or lower. It is transmitted by aphids and mechanical wounding. BBWV:
Symptoms are similar to those of LMV and CMV, but at lower field temperatures, the infected plants develop severe veinal
necrosis. BBWV is also aphid transmitted in a non-persistent manner.
Relative risk: Viruses can be serious when they occur.
LMV: is one of the most common and damaging viruses causing lettuce to be discolored and fail to form a head.
CMV: is very difficult to control and damaging when present.
BBWV: can be serious in susceptible varieties.
Management Option Recommendations for Viruses

Site selection Plant upwind from weedy border areas or previous lettuce plantings to reduce inoculum from these
areas which may serve as virus reservoirs.
Crop rotation LMV: This virus affects all types of lettuce and many other hosts including other greens, pea, spinach,
aster, marigold, and zinnia.
CMV: can infect more than 775 plant species including weeds, therefore is very difficult to control.
Resistant varieties LMV: See resistant varieties in Section 6.

CMV: resistant varieties are not known.
BBMV: Some varieties are highly susceptible while others show high tolerance. Check with seed
suppliers for resistance information.
2016
Management Option Recommendations for Viruses

Seed selection LMV is seed-borne in all lettuce types, but not in endive, and infected seed is the most common route
for LMV to be introduced into a field. Purchase lettuce seed designated mosaic tolerance zero (MTO),
meaning a sample shows zero infested seeds in 30,000.
CMV: is not seed-borne.
BBMV: is not seed-borne.
Weed control LMV: Many weeds are hosts including cheeseweed, chickweed, common groundsel, henbit, common
lambsquarters, milkweed, ox tongue, purslane, scarlet pimpernel, shepherds purse, sowbane, annual
sow-thistle, and milk thistle. Controlling weed hosts in and around the field can slow the rate of
infection.
CMV: Perennial weed sources include hedge bindweed, white campion, common chickweed, corn
cockle, burr cucumber, hairy galinsoga, common groundsel, horsenettle, jimsonweed, common
lambsquarters, prickly lettuce, marshcress, common milkweed, pitted morning glory, tall morning
glory, wild mustard, eastern black nightshade, field pennycress, prostrate pigweed, redroot pigweed,
common purslane, wild radish, common ragweed, yellow rocket, shepherds purse, annual
sowthistle, corn speedwell, Canada thistle, and marsh yellowcress (reference 3).
BBWV: The major perennial weed sources are broadleaf plantain and buckhorn plantain.
Postharvest Plow under early lettuce fields immediately after harvest to reduce inoculum for later-planted crops.
Note(s) This disease is transmitted by aphids in a non-persistent manner. The aphid acquires the virus from
infected plants almost immediately. However, it is only able to infect healthy plants for a short time,
usually a few days to a week. Suppressing aphid populations aids virus control.
Oil sprays in the field and on weedy field borders can help to control viruses. See Section 14.2:
Aphids.
Table 11.8 Pesticides for Management of Viruses
Class of Compounds
Organic JMS Stylet-Oil 3 qt/100 gal water 0 4 ? Oil products effective against aphids in 2/5 trials.
(paraffinic oil) May reduce transmission of stylet-borne
pathogens such as LMV and CMV.
PureSpray Green (white 0.75 gal/acre up to 4 ? See comment for Organic JMS Stylet-Oil
mineral oil) day
2016
12. NEMATODES
12.1 Northern Root-Knot Nematode, Meloidogyne hapla
Time for concern: Seedling through harvest, but control measures are only effective before or at planting.
Key characteristics: This nematode spends most of its life living in the roots of its host, although the eggs and second stage
juveniles can be found in the soil. Larvae travel through the soil in search of host roots, attaching most often near the root tip to
feed. Root cells near the feeding site swell into visible galls (knots). Infected roots often exhibit extensive secondary root
formation. Severely infected plants are stunted and exhibit wilting in the middle of hot and sunny days. See Cornell Bulletin
(reference 64) and photo of root-knot nematode (reference 65).
Relative risk: Lettuce is the second most sensitive crop to root-knot nematode after carrots. Severely infected plants can be
stunted and grow unevenly. Heads are often loose and small, making them unsuitable for some markets. Yield weights in
experimental research plots showed a 26 percent reduction due to root-knot nematode damage (reference 64).
Management Options Recommendations for Root-Knot Nematode
Scouting/thresholds Scouting: Record the occurrence and severity of root-knot nematode infection on roots. Threshold:
Damage threshold for lettuce is 2 eggs/cc of soil.
Site selection Use a soil bioassay with lettuce to assess soil root-knot nematode infestation levels. Or, submit the soil
sample(s) for nematode analysis at a public or private nematology lab (reference 63). See Section 4:
Field Selection for more information or refer to the following Cornell publications for instructions:
Soil Sampling For Plant Parasitic Nematodes (reference 66).
Visual Assessment of Root-Knot Nematode Soil Infestation Levels Using a Lettuce Bioassay (ref 67).
Crop rotation Root-knot nematodes can be reduced through crop rotation, but because of their large host range, are
unlikely to be eliminated. Particularly sensitive hosts are carrot and onion, but also alfalfa, soybean and
clover. Many grain crops are non-hosts including corn, barley, oats, annual ryegrass, rye grain, tall
fescue, and wheat. These crops are effective at reducing root-knot nematode populations. Sudangrass
is not only a non-host, but if incorporated as a chopped green residue, may further suppress
populations.
Cover crops Winter grain cover crops, such as winter rye and oat, are non-hosts for the northern root-knot
nematode, thus they are effective at reducing the population. Biofumigant cover crops, used as green
manure, may be effective in reducing both root-knot nematode populations and lesion nematodes in
soil populations. Many biofumigant crops will increase root-lesion nematode populations while the
crop is growing, and exhibit their biofumigant effects when they are incorporated into the soil.
Research suggests that Sudangrass hybrid Trudan 8 as well as selections of white clover and flax can
be used effectively as a biofumigant to reduce nematode populations. Nemat is an arugula variety
that functions as a trap crop, attracting nematodes but not enabling reproduction on its roots. Crucifer
green manures are also effective as bio-fumigants. See Section 3: Cover Crops for more information.
Weed management The following weeds host root-knot nematodes and should be controlled when possible: wild
buckwheat, large crabgrass, dandelion, hairy galinsoga, common groundsel, prostrate knotweed,
common lambsquarters, prickly lettuce, mallow, black medic, wild mustard, yellow nutsedge, field
pennycress, field pepperweed, tumble pigweed, redroot pigweed, plantain, shepherds purse,
purslane, yellow rocket, speedwell, Canada thistle, and velvetleaf (references 3 and 64).
Cultural controls Avoid moving soil from infested fields to uninfested fields on equipment and vehicles. Wash
equipment after use in infested fields. Prevent surface run-off from infested fields.
Postharvest If possible, plow under crop debris and plant a grain cover crop.
2016
Table 12.1 Pesticides for Management of Nematodes
Class of Compounds Product Name PHI2 REI
(Active Ingredient) Product Rate (Days) (Hours) Efficacy Comments
AzaGuard ( azadirachtin) 15 fl oz/acre 0 4 ? Apply in sufficient amount of water to
soil drench penetrate soil to a depth of 12.
DiTera DF (Myrothecium verrucaria) 13-100 lb/acre - 4 ?
soil treatment
Ecozin Plus 1.2% ME ( azadirachtin) 15-30 fl 0 4 ? Foliar spray and soil treatment.
oz/acre
MeloCon (Paecilomyces lilacinus str. 251) 2-4 lb/acre soil - 4 ?
treatment
Molt-X ( azadirachtin) 15 oz/acre 0 4 ?

PHI = pre-harvest interval, REI = restricted entry interval. - = pre-harvest interval isn't specified on label
13. NONPATHOGENIC DISORDERS

Environmental factors can cause symptoms that appear to be diseases but are actually not caused by a pathogen or insect. See
Section 6 for information on varieties resistant to the following disorders.
Table 13.1 Nonpathogenic Disorders of Lettuce
Disorder Cause Options
Tipburn Tipburn is caused by insufficient calcium in plant Plant resistant varieties. Irrigate with drip irrigation systems.
tissue due to rapid plant growth, excessive fertilizer,
or uneven water availability.
Poor stand One cause is thermodormancy due to soil Irrigate when seeding in hot weather.
temperatures >80F. Other causes include planting
too deep, old seed, and seed rots.
Bolting High night temperatures during early summer and Plant heat tolerant varieties. Avoid summer plantings.
summer. Lettuce also bolts naturally when mature.
Russeting Ethylene exposure during storage especially in Do not store lettuce with ethylene producing crops.
crisphead varieties.
levels of pest damage and a familiarity with allowable control

practices, in other words, Integrated Pest Management (IPM).
14. INSECT MANAGEMENT Regular scouting and accurate pest identification are essential
Effective insect management relies on accurate identification for effective insect management. Thresholds used for
of pests and beneficial insects, an understanding of their conventional production may not be useful for organic
biology and life cycle, knowledge of economically important systems because of the typically lower percent mortality and
shorter residual of control products allowed for organic
2016
production. The use of pheromone traps or other monitoring control some pests, but sometimes these biocontrol agents
and prediction techniques can provide an early warning for simply leave the area. For more information, see Cornells
pest problems, and help effectively focus scouting efforts. Natural Enemies of Vegetable Insect Pests (reference 68) and
A Guide to Natural Enemies in North America (reference
The contribution of crop rotation as an insect management
70).
strategy is highly dependent on the mobility of the pest. Crop
rotation tends to make a greater impact on reducing pest Regulations
populations if the pest has limited mobility. In cases where Organic farms must comply with all regulations regarding
the insects are highly mobile, leaving a greater distance pesticide applications. See Section 10: Using Organic Pesticides
between past and present plantings is better. for details. ALWAYS check with your organic farm
certifier when planning pesticide applications.
Natural Enemies
Learn to identify naturally occurring beneficial insects, and Efficacy
attract and conserve them in your fields by providing a wide In general, insecticides allowed for organic production kill a
variety of flowering plants in or near the field, and avoiding smaller percentage of the pest population and have a shorter
broad-spectrum insecticides. In most cases, a variety of residual than non-organic insecticides. University-based
natural enemies are present in the field, each helping to efficacy testing is not available for many organic pesticides.
reduce pest populations. The additive effects of multiple See Section 10.3: Optimizing Pesticide Effectiveness for more
species of natural enemies, attacking different host stages, is information.
more likely to make an important contribution to reducing Resources:
pest populations than an individual natural enemy species Biological Control: A Guide to Natural Enemies in North America
operating alone. Natural enemies need a reason to be present (reference 70)
in the field, either a substantial pest population, alternative Resource Guide for Organic Insect and Disease Management
hosts, or a source of pollen or nectar, and may not respond to (reference 2).
the buildup of pests quickly enough to keep pest populations Natural Enemies of Vegetable Insect Pests (reference 68).
below damaging levels. Releasing insectary-reared beneficial
organisms into the crop early in the pest outbreak may help
At the time this guide was produced, the following materials were available in New York State for managing this pest and were allowable for organic
production. Listing a pest on a pesticide label does not assure the pesticides effectiveness. The registration status of pesticides can and does change.
Pesticides must be currently registered with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) to be used legally in NY. However,
pesticides meeting the federal requirements for minimum-risk (25(b)) pesticides do not require registration. Current NY pesticide registrations can be
checked on the Pesticide Product, Ingredient, and Manufacturer System (PIMS) website (Link 2). ALWAYS CHECK WITH YOUR CERTIFIER before using a
new product.
Table 14.0.1 Pesticides for Insect Control in Organic Lettuce
Cabbage Looper
Leafhopper
Tarnished
Plant Bug
Aphid
CLASS OF COMPOUND
Product name (Active ingredient)
MICROBIAL
Agree (Bt aizawai) X
Biobit (Bt kurstaki str. ABTS-351) X
Deliver (Bt kurstaki) X
DiPel DF (Bt kurstaki) X
Grandevo (Chromobacterium subtsugae str. PRAA4-1) X X
Javelin WG (Bt kurstaki) X
Entrust ( spinosad) X
Entrust SC ( spinosad) X
PFR-97 20% WDG (Isaria fumosorosea Apopka str. 97) X X X
Preferal(Isaria fumosorosea Apopka str. 97) X X X
XenTari (Bacillus thuringiensis) X
2016
Cabbage Looper
Leafhopper
Tarnished
Plant Bug
Aphid
CLASS OF COMPOUND
BOTANICAL
Aza-Direct ( azadirachtin) X X X
AzaGuard ( azadirachtin) X X X X
AzaMax ( azadirachtin) X X X X
AzaSol ( azadirachtin) X X X
Azatrol EC ( azadirachtin) X X X X
Azera ( azadirachtin, pyrethrins) X X X X
BioLink Insect Repellant (garlic juice) X X X X
BioLink Insect & Bird Repellant (garlic juice) X X X X
BioRepel (garlic oil) X X
Cedar Gard (cedar oil) X X
Ecozin Plus ( azadirachtin) X X X X
Envirepel 20 (garlic juice) X X X
GC-Mite (cottonseed, clove and garlic oils) X
Molt-X ( azadirachtin) X X X X
Neemix 4.5 ( azadirachtin) X X X
Trilogy ( neem oil) X
PyGanic EC 5.0 II ( pyrethrin) X X X X
PyGanic EC 1.4 II( pyrethrin) X X X X
Garlic Barrier AG (garlic juice ) X X X
SOAP
DES-X (insecticidal soap) X X
M-Pede (potassium salts of fatty acids) X X X
Safer Brand #567 Pyrethrin & Insecticidal Soap Concentrate II ( pyrethrins, potassium salts
X X X X
of fatty acids)
OIL
GrasRoots (cinnamon oil) X
Oleotrol-I (soybean oil) X
Omni Supreme Spray (mineral oil) X X X X
Organic JMS Stylet Oil (paraffinic oil) X
Glacial Spray Fluid (mineral oil) X X
Organocide 3-in-1 (sesame oil) X
PureSpray Green (petroleum oil) X X X
SuffOil-X (mineral oil) X X X X
TriTek(mineral oil) X X X X
OTHER
Ecotec (rosemary and peppermint oil) X X X
Nuke Em (citric acid) X
2016
Cabbage Looper
Leafhopper
Tarnished
Plant Bug
Aphid
CLASS OF COMPOUND
Sil-Matrix (potassium silicate) X
14.1 Aphids primarily Green Peach Aphid, Myzus persicae

Time for concern: Mid-July through the end of the growing season.
Key characteristics: Adult green peach aphids come in a range of color including light green, pink, red, and dark brown. Adults
can be winged or wingless depending on the time of year and the density of the aphid population. They range in length from
1/32 to 1/16 inch. Aphids are characterized by two cornicles or tailpipes on their abdomen. Their host range is wide including
weeds, ornamentals, and other vegetable crops. See photos and more information about aphids in the Ontario fact sheet
(reference 72).
Relative risk: This annual, but sporadic, pest primarily serves as a vector of damaging virus diseases although large populations
can contaminate the crop at harvest.
Management Options Recommendations for Aphids
Scouting/thresholds Scouting: Scout plantings weekly. Dispersal flights of winged adult aphids can be monitored using
yellow sticky boards placed along the field borders. Monitor field populations by visually inspecting
30 plants, checking undersides of leaves and tender new growth. Thresholds: Thresholds depend on
market tolerance. Community supported agriculture (CSA) outlets are normally more tolerant than
the general market.
Resistant varieties Resistant varieties are not available.
Cultural controls Row covers can protect lettuce plants from infestation. Cover rows during planting with fine netting
or floating row covers to protect them from egg-laying. Hoops may be needed to support the
netting to prevent it from damaging the crop. Anchor the edges of the row cover to prevent insects
from entering at the edges. Row covers may be left on until harvest.
Biological controls Numerous natural enemies prey on aphids and can reduce the overall populations. However, some
natural enemies can also be contaminants if present in the harvested product. Ladybird beetle
larvae, lacewing larvae, cecidomyid fly larvae, syrphid fly larvae, and parasitic wasps are common
parasites of aphids (reference 72). Choose practices that preserve these insects. See reference 68 or
70 for more information on natural enemies.
Chemical controls Spraying aphids within a field will not eliminate the introduction of mosaic viruses borne by aphids
immigrating from sources outside of the field, but may reduce virus spread from plant to plant
within the field.
Postharvest Plow under or remove all lettuce plant debris in the field immediately after harvest.
Note(s) New York State lettuce entering the export market must be kept clean of aphids and other insect
contaminants.
2016
Table 14.1 Pesticides for Management of Aphids
Class of Compounds
Aza-Direct ( azadirachtin) 1-2 pts/acre 0 4 1 Azadirachtin based products effective in 4/7
trials against the green peach aphid. Up to 3.5 pts
per acre can be used under extreme pest
pressure.
AzaGuard ( azadirachtin) 10-16 fl oz/acre 0 4 1 Azadirachtin based products effective in 4/7

trials against the green peach aphid. Apply with
OMRI approved spray oil.
AzaMax ( azadirachtin) 1.33 fl oz/1000 ft2 0 4 1 Azadirachtin based products effective in 4/7
trials against the green peach aphid.
AzaSol ( azadirachtin) 6 oz/acre - 4 1 See comment for AzaMax
Azatrol-EC ( azadirachtin) 0.24-0.96 fl/ 1000 ft2 0 4 1 See comment for AzaMax
Azera ( azadirachtin, 1-3.5 pts/acre - 12 1 See comment for AzaMax
pyrethrins)
BioLink (garlic juice) 0.5-2 qt/acre - - ? 25(b) pesticide. Repellent.
BioLink Insect & Bird 0.5-4 qt/acre - - ? 25(b) pesticide. Repellent.
Repellant (garlic juice)
BioRepel (garlic oil) 1 part BioRepel with - - 2 25(b) pesticide. Oil products effective in 2/5
100 parts water trials.
DES-X (insecticidal soap) 2% solution sprayed at 1/2 12 ?
75-200 gallons/acre
Ecotec (Rosemary oil, 1-4 pts/acre - - ? 25(b) pesticide.
Peppermint oil)
Ecozin Plus 1.2% ME 15-30 oz/acre 0 4 1 See comment for AzaMax Crops can be harvested
( azadirachtin) as soon as spray has dried. May slow feeding and
affect nymphal development.
Envirepel 20 (garlic juice) 10-32 fl oz/A - - ? 25(b) pesticide.
Garlic Barrier AG (garlic 1-2% solution - - ? 25(b) pesticide.
juice)
GC-Mite (garlic oil, clove 1 gal/100 gal water - - 2 25(b) pesticide. Oil products effective in 2/5
oil, cottonseed oil) trials. Check compatibility by spraying a small
number of plants.
Glacial Spray Fluid (mineral 0.75-1 gal/100 gal up to 4 2 Oil products effective in 2/5 trials. See label for
oil) water day specific application volumes and equipment.
Grandevo 2-3 lb/acre 0 4 ?
(Chromobacterium
subtsugae str. PRAA4-1)
GrasRoots (cinnamon oil) 1 part GrasRoots to 9 - - ? 25(b) pesticide.
parts water
Molt-X ( azadirachtin) 10 oz/acre 0 4 1 See comment for AzaMax
2016
Table 14.1 Pesticides for Management of Aphids

Class of Compounds
M-Pede (insecticidal soap) 1-2% solution 0 12 3 Soap based products effective in 0/9 trials against
green peach aphid. Tank mix M-Pede with a
labeled companion insecticide for green peach
aphid control.
Neemix 4.5 5-7 fl oz/acre 0 4 1 See comment for AzaMax. May slow feeding and
( azadirachtin) affect nymphal development. Only labeled for
green peach aphid.
Nuke Em (citric acid) 1 fl oz/ 31 fl ozwater - - ?
to 2 fl oz/30 fl oz
water
Oleotrol-I Bio-Insecticide 43-45 fl oz/100 gal - - 2 25(b) pesticide. Oil products effective in 2/5
Concentrate (soybean oil) water trials.
Omni Supreme Spray 1-2 gal/acre - 12 2 Oil products effective in 2/5 trials. Use in
(mineral oil) combination with other insecticides registered
for use on lettuce.
Organocide (sesame oil) 1-2 gal/100 gal water 0 0 2 25(b) pesticide. Oil products effective in 2/5 trials.
PFR-97 20% WDG (Isaria 1-2 lb/acre - 4 ? Repeat applications at 3-10 day intervals as
fumosorosea Apopka str. needed to maintain control.
97)
Preferal (Isaria 1-2 lb/acre - 4 ?
fumosorosea Apopka str.
97)
PureSpray Green (white 0.75-1.5 gal/acre up to 4 2 Oil products effective in 2/5 trials.
mineral oil) day
PyGanic EC 1.4 II ( 16-64 fl.oz./acre until 12 ?

pyrethrins) dry
PyGanic EC 5.0 II ( 4.5-17 fl.oz./acre - 12 ?

pyrethrins)
Safer Brand #567 II 6.4 oz/ gal water until 12 ?
(potassium laurate, applied at 1 gal dry
pyrethrins) mix/700 sq ft
Sil-Matrix (potassium 0.5-1% solution 0 4 ? Only provides suppression of aphids.
silicate)
SuffOil-X (aliphatic 1-2 gal/100 gal water up to 4 2 Oil products effective in 2/5 trials. Do not mix
petroleum solvent) day with sulfur products.
Trilogy ( neem oil) 0.5-1% solution Up to 4 ? Apply no more than 2 gallons of Trilogy per acre
day per application. May slow feeding and affect
nymphal development. Bee Hazard. This product
TriTek (mineral oil) 1-2 gal/100 gal water up to 4 2 Oil products effective in 2/5 trials. Apply as
day needed.
waiting until after REI to harvest. Active ingredient meets EPA criteria for acute toxicity to bees
2016
14.2 Aster Leafhopper, Macrosteles quadrilineatus

Time for concern: Mid-June through the end of the growing season.
Key characteristics: Aster leafhoppers transmit the pathogen that causes aster yellows disease. This pest does not appear to
overwinter in New York and early spring populations largely migrate from Gulf Coast states and other southern areas. See
University of Minnesota fact sheet (reference 71). Aster leafhopper has a wide host range feeding on over 100 plant species
although preferring cereals and grasses.
Relative risk: Aster leafhopper itself only causes minimal damage to lettuce, but is more importantly a vector for aster yellows
disease. See Section 11.7: Aster yellows.
Management Options Recommendations for Aster Leafhoppers
Scouting/thresholds Thresholds have not been established for organic production.
Crop rotation Crop rotation is ineffective due to the leafhopper's ability to travel long distances.
Resistant varieties Resistant varieties are not available.
Weed control Control both broadleaf and grassy weeds near lettuce plantings. See Section 11.7: Aster Yellows for
more information on alternate host weeds. Where possible, mow headlands around fields.
Mechanical controls Row covers protect against adult leafhoppers.
Traps Do not place yellow or white sticky traps directly within lettuce fields since they tend to attract
migrating adult leafhoppers.
Note(s) Reducing aster yellows inoculum is more critical than controlling leafhopper populations since the
insect rarely causes direct feeding damage, but instead spreads inoculum throughout the lettuce
fields.
Table 14.2 Pesticides for Management of Aster Leafhopper
Class of Compounds
Product Name (Active REI
Ingredient) Product Rate PHI2(Days) (Hours) Efficacy Comments
Aza-Direct ( azadirachtin) 1-2 pts/acre 0 4 ? Up to 3.5 pts per acre can be used
under extreme pest pressure.
AzaGuard ( azadirachtin) 10-16 fl.oz./acre 0 4 ? Apply with OMRI approved spray oil.
AzaMax ( azadirachtin) 1.33 fl oz/1000 sq ft 0 4 ?
Azatrol-EC ( azadirachtin) 0.24-0.96 fl oz/1000 sq ft 0 4 ?

Azera ( azadirachtin, 1-3.5 pts/acre - 12 ?
pyrethrins)
BioRepel (garlic oil) 1 part BioRepel with 100 - - ? 25(b) pesticide.
parts water
Cedar Gard (cedar oil) 1 qt/acre - - ? 25(b) pesticide.
Ecozin Plus 1.2% ME 15-30 oz/acre 0 4 ? May affect nymphal development.
2016
Table 14.2 Pesticides for Management of Aster Leafhopper

Class of Compounds
( azadirachtin) Crops can be harvested as soon as spray
has dried.
Envirepel 20 (garlic juice) 10-32 fl oz/A - - ? 25(b) pesticide. Repellent.
Garlic Barrier AG (garlic juice) 1-2% solution - - ? 25(b) pesticide. Repellent.
Glacial Spray Fluid (mineral 0.75-1 gal/100 gal water up to 4 ? See label for specific application
oil) day volumes and equipment.
Molt-X ( azadirachtin) 10 oz/acre 0 4 ?
M-Pede (insecticidal soap) 0.25-2% v/v solution 0 12 3 Not effective in 1/1 trial against potato
leafhopper. Spray material must
contact pest to be effective.
Neemix 4.5 ( azadirachtin) 7-16 fl oz/acre 0 4 ? May affect nymphal development.
Omni Supreme Spray 1-2 gal/acre - 12 ? Use in combination with other

(mineral oil) insecticides registered for use on
lettuce.
Organic JMS Stylet Oil 3-6 qt/100 gal water 0 4
PureSpray Green (white 0.75-1.5 gal/acre up to 4 ?
mineral oil) day
PyGanic EC 1.4 II 16-64 fl oz/acre until 12 1 Pyrethrin based products effective in
( pyrethrins) dry 2/3 trials against leafhopper species.
PyGanic EC 5.0 II 4.5-17 fl oz/acre - 12 1 See comment for PyGanic EC 1.4 II.
( pyrethrins)
Safer Brand #567 II 6.4 oz/ gal water applied at 1 until 12 1 See comment for PyGanic EC 1.4 II.
(potassium laurate, gal mix/700 sq ft dry
pyrethrins)
SuffOil-X (aliphatic 1-2 gal/100 gal water up to 4 ? Do not mix with sulfur products.
petroleum solvent) day
TriTek (mineral oil) 1-2 gal/100 gal water up to 4 ? Apply as needed.
day
14.3 Cabbage Looper, Trichoplusia ni

Time for concern: August 1 through harvest. Cold, wet weather conditions will reduce cabbage looper populations. Favorable
weather fronts from the south may suddenly increase populations.
Key characteristics: Because adults are nocturnal, the gray, non-descript moths are seldom seen. Adult moths are mottled gray-
brown, 3/4 inch long, with a distinct silver-white round mark on the wing. White, round eggs, the size of a pinhead, are laid on
the undersides of leaves. Larvae hatch in less than a week and will feed on lettuce for 2 to 4 weeks, chewing ragged holes in the
leaves. Larvae are up to 1 inches long, light green with white stripes along each side of the body and can be distinguished by
2016
the looping movement they use to travel. See Cornell factsheet (reference 73), University of Illinois photos (reference 74), and
references 4 and 75.
Relative risk: Because cabbage looper does not overwinter in New York, infestations are variable and depend on weather
fronts to move them in from areas further south. Both larvae and associated feces are considered contaminants of the crop at
harvest. Loopers are mainly a concern for fall-harvested plantings.
Management Option Recommendation for Cabbage Looper

Crop rotation Since cabbage looper does not overwinter in New York, crop rotation will not help manage this pest.
Planting methods Cabbage loopers dont reach significant levels until late July or early August. Early season lettuce will
escape most cabbage looper damage.
Scouting/thresholds Thresholds and scouting techniques have not been developed for organic lettuce.
Traps Bucket-type pheromone or UV light traps can be used to monitor moth flight. See reference 76,
Pheromone Traps for Insect Pest Management, for more information.
Weed control Cabbage loopers have many broadleaf hosts so weed control may be helpful in reducing field
attractiveness for egg laying by dispersing moths.
Cultural controls Lettuce plantings that are harvested early in the season usually avoid cabbage looper damage.
Biological controls Naturally-occurring predators, parasitoids, and pathogens help suppress infestations. See A Guide to
Natural Enemies in North America (reference 70) for identification of natural enemies.
Floating row covers For smaller plantings, row covers can be used as a barrier to egg-laying adults, provided they are
installed prior to migration of adult moths into the area. Row covers can remain in place until
harvest. See Cornell insect traps and barriers factsheet (reference 77) for more on row covers.
Vacuum/leaf blower Larvae can be vacuumed from leaves using a retail or commercial-duty leaf blower operated for
suction.
Table 14.3 Pesticides for Management of Cabbage Looper
Agree WG (Bacillus thuringiensis) 0.5-2 lb/acre up to 4 1 Bt products effective in 6/7 trials. Good
day coverage is essential.
Aza-Direct ( azadirachtin) 1-2 pts/acre 0 4 1 Up to 3.5 pts per acre can be used under
extreme pest pressure. Azadirachtin based
products effective in 2/4 trials.
AzaGuard ( azadirachtin) 8-16 fl.oz./acre 0 4 1 Apply with OMRI approved spray oil.
Azadirachtin based products effective in 2/4
trials.
AzaMax ( azadirachtin) 1.33 fl oz/1000 0 4 1 Azadirachtin based products effective in 2/4

ft2 trials.
AzaSol ( azadirachtin) 6 oz/acre - 4 1 See comment for AzaMax.
Azatrol-EC ( azadirachtin) 0.19-0.96 fl 0 4 1 See comment for AzaMax.
2016

oz/1000 ft2
Azera ( azadirachtin, 1-3.5 pts/acre - 12 1 See comment for AzaMax.
pyrethrins)
Biobit HP (Bacillus thuringinensis 0.5-1 lb/acre 0 4 1 Bt products effective in 6/7 trials.
subsp. Kurstaki)
BioLink Insect & Bird Repellant 0.5-4 qt/acre - - ? 25(b) pesticide. Repellent.
(garlic juice)
Deliver (Bacillus thuringinensis 0.25-1.5 lb/acre 0 4 1 Bt products effective in 6/7 trials.
subsp. Kurstaki)
Dipel DF (Bacillus thuringinensis 0.5-2 lb/acre 0 4 1 Bt products effective in 6/7 trials.
subsp. Kurstaki)
Ecotec (rosemary oil, Peppermint 1-4 pts/acre - - ? 25(b) pesticide.
oil)
Ecozin Plus 1.2% ME 15-30 oz/acre 0 4 1 Crops can be harvested as soon as spray has
( azadirachtin) dried.Azadirachtin based products effective in
2/4 trials.Will not control adults.
Entrust ( spinosad) 1-2 oz/acre 1 4 1 Spinosad products effective in 41/47 trials
against caterpillar species including cabbage
looper.
Entrust SC ( spinosad) 3-6 fl.oz./acre 1 4 1 See comment for Entrust.
Envirepel 20 (garlic juice) 10-32 fl oz/A - - ? 25(b) pesticide. Repellent.

Garlic Barrier AG (garlic juice) 1-2% solution - - ? 25(b) pesticide. Repellent.
Grandevo (Chromobacterium 1-3 lb/acre 0 4 ?
subtsugae str. PRAA4-1)
Javelin WG (Bacillus thuringinensis 0.12-1.5 lb/acre 0 4 1 Bt products effective in 6/7 trials.
subsp. Kurstaki)
Molt-X ( azadirachtin) 8 oz/acre 0 4 1 See comment for AzaMax.
Neemix 4.5 ( azadirachtin) 7-16 fl oz/acre 0 4 1 See comment for AzaMax.
Omni Supreme Spray (mineral oil) 1-2 gal/acre - 12 ? Use in combination with other insecticides
registered for use on lettuce.
PureSpray Green (white mineral 0.75-1.5 up to 4 ?
oil) gal/acre day
PyGanic EC 1.4 II ( pyrethrins) 16-64 fl oz/acre until 12 ?

dry
PyGanic EC 5.0 II ( pyrethrins) 4.5-17 fl oz/acre - 12 ?
Safer Brand #567 II (potassium 6.4 oz/ gal of until 12 ?

laurate, pyrethrins) water applied at dry
1 gal mix/700 sq
ft
SuffOil-X (aliphatic petroleum 1-2 gal/100 gal up to 4 ? Do not mix with sulfur products.
solvent) water day
2016

TriTek (mineral oil) 1-2 gal/100 gal up to 4 ? Apply as needed.
water day
XenTari (Bacillus thuringiensis, var. 0.5-1.5 lb/acre 0 4 1 Bt products effective in 6/7 trials.
aizawai)
PHI = pre-harvest interval, REI = restricted entry interval. - = pre-harvest interval isn't specified on label. Efficacy: 1- effective in half or more of recent university
14.4 Tarnished Plant Bug, Lygus lineolaris

Time for concern: Throughout the season
Key characteristics: The tarnished plant bug (TPB) introduces a plant toxin while feeding that causes brown lesions along the
midrib. After overwintering as adults in plant debris, they lay eggs in early spring which hatch in about a week and become adults
in approximately 30 days. There are normally 3 generations per season, peaking from mid-June to mid-July. Feeding by the
nymphs is the main source of damage. See Cornell fact sheet with photos (reference 78) and Ontario photo of damage to lettuce
(reference 79).
Relative Risk: Brown spots on the mid-rib reduce marketability.
Management Options Recommendations for Tarnished Plant Bug
Scouting/thresholds Thresholds and scouting protocols have not been established for organic production.
Crop rotation Crop rotation is not a useful management tool since TPB is very mobile and has many hosts
including most legumes, flowering buckwheat, pigweed, brassicas, a number of plants in the
Rosaceae family, and many more.
Weed control Control weeds and keep headlands mowed to prevent TPB buildup.
Cultural controls Row covers may raise temperatures too much to be useful for summer lettuce crops. TPB can
harbor in cover crops, neighboring plantings, or weeds surrounding fields and, when mowed or
harvested, will then move to lettuce fields. Legume cover crops, such as hairy vetch, can lure TPB
out of lettuce fields or prevent them from entering. Managing TPBs requires an approach to limit
their overall population and movement throughout the farm. Be aware of high populations that can
quickly move from field to field. Consider strip cutting of crops harboring large populations of TPB.
Biological controls Natural enemies of the TPB include the big-eyed bug (Geocoris punctipes), and various wasps
(Peristenus digoneutis, Leiophron uniformis, Anaphes ovijentatus, and Peristenus pallipes). Peristenus
digoneutis is non-native but is becoming established as a biological control in some areas. See
reference 68 and 70 for more information on natural enemies.
Traps Yellow and white sticky ribbons may reduce adult populations.
Note(s) Most organic pesticides have not been effective against TPB.
2016
Table 14.4 Pesticides for Management of Tarnished Plant Bug
Class of Compounds
AzaGuard ( azadirachtin) 10-16 fl oz/acre 0 4 3 Apply with OMRI approved spray oil.
Azadirachtin based products effective in 0/2
trials.
AzaMax ( azadirachtin) 1.33 fl oz/1000 ft2 0 4 3 Azadirachtin based products effective in 0/2
trials.
AzaSol ( azadirachtin) 6 oz/acre - 4 3 See comment for AzaMax. Nymphs only.
Azatrol-EC ( azadirachtin) 0.24-0.96 fl oz/1000 0 4 3 See comment for AzaMax.

ft2
Azera ( azadirachtin, 1-3.5 pts/acre - 12 3 See comment for AzaMax.
pyrethrins)
Cedar Gard (cedar oil) 1 qt/acre - - ? 25(b) pesticide.
DES-X (insecticidal soap) 2% solution sprayed at 1/2 12 ?
75-200 gallons/acre
Ecotec (Rosemary oil, 1-4 pts/acre - - ? 25(b) pesticide.

Peppermint oil)
Ecozin Plus 1.2% ME ( 15-30 oz/acre 0 4 3 Crops can be harvested as soon as spray has
azadirachtin) dried. Will not control adults. Azadirachtin
based products effective in 0/2 trials.
Molt-X ( azadirachtin) 10 oz/acre 0 4 3 See comment for AzaMax.
M-Pede (insecticidal soap) 0.25-2% v/v 0 12 ? Spray material must contact pest to be effective.
solution Activity of this product is directly related to the
solution concentration and contact with the pest,
not the amount of product applied per acre.
Omni Supreme Spray 1-2 gal/acre - 12 ? Use in combination with other insecticides
(mineral oil) registered for use on lettuce.
PFR-97 20% WDG (Isaria 1-2 lb/acre - 4 ? Repeat applications at 3-10 day intervals as
fumosorosea Apopka str. 97) needed to maintain control.
Preferal (Isaria fumosorosea 1-2 lb/acre - 4 ?
Apopka str. 97)
PyGanic EC 1.4 II (pyrethrins) 16-64 fl.oz./acre until 12 3 Pyrethrin based products effective in 0/1 trial.
dry
PyGanic EC 5.0 II ( 4.5-17 fl.oz./acre - 12 3 Pyrethrin based products effective in 0/1 trial.
pyrethrins)
2016
Table 14.4 Pesticides for Management of Tarnished Plant Bug

Class of Compounds
Safer Brand #567 II 6.4 oz/ gal of water until 12 ?
(potassium laurate, applied at 1 gal dry
pyrethrins) mix/700 sq ft
SuffOil-X (aliphatic petroleum 1-2 gal/100 gal up to 4 ? Do not mix with sulfur products.
solvent) water day
TriTek (mineral oil) 1-2 gal/100 gal up to 4 ? Apply as needed.
water day
15. SLUGS
Time for concern: Early spring and fall or when conditions are moist.
Key characteristics: Adult slugs are between one and two inches in length. Slugs can overwinter at any stage of development.
Although slugs cannot survive prolonged subzero temperatures or desiccation, the burrows of small mammals and worms
provide shelter. Slugs begin to move, hatch, feed, and lay eggs in the spring when temperatures are consistently above 40F.
There is often little or no slug activity in the field during periods of dry weather; however, there may be extensive feeding in
damp areas or during wet years. Slug damage is often worse in fields where organic matter is decomposing. See Cornell fact
sheet(reference 80).
Relative risk: Contamination by, and damage from, slugs in the marketable product is the biggest concern, although slugs can
also injure young seedlings.
Management Options Recommendations for Slugs
Scouting/thresholds Scouting and thresholds for slugs have not been established for organic production.
Weed Control Control weeds to deprive slugs of protected resting sites.
Cultural Controls Practices that dry the soil surface (e.g. conventional tillage and weed control) will reduce slug
populations. Fields with higher levels of decomposing organic matter are more prone to slug damage.
Pesticides for Management of Slugs
Class of Compounds
2016
Pesticides for Management of Slugs

Bug-N-Sluggo ( spinosad, 20-44 lb/acre soil 1 4 ?
iron phosphate) treatment
Sluggo AG (iron phosphate) 24-44 lb/acre soil - 0 ? Scatter bait around perimeter of plantings to
treatment provide a barrier from entry. If slugs are inside
the rows, scatter bait on the soil around and
between the rows.
Sluggo Slug and Snail Bait 20-44 lb/acre soil 0 0 ?
(iron phosphate) treatment
Efficacy: 1- effective in half or more of recent university trials, 2- effective in less than half of recent university trials, 3-not effective in any known trials, X-
16. PESTICIDES AND ABBREVIATIONS MENTIONED IN THIS PUBLICATION
Table 16.1 Insecticides and Molluscides

TRADE NAME ACTIVE INGREDIENTS EPA REG. NO.
Agree Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. aizawai str.GC-91 70051-47
Aza-Direct azadirachtin 71908-1-10163
AzaGuard azadirachtin 70299-17
Azamax azadirachtin 71908-1-81268
AzaSol azadirachtin 81899-4
Azatrol EC azadirachtin 2217-836
Azera azadirachtin, pyrethrins 1021-1872
Biobit HP Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. kurstaki 73049-54
BioLink Insect Repellant garlic juice Exempt - 25(b) pesticide
BioLink Insect & Bird Repellant garlic juice Exempt - 25(b) pesticide
BioRepel garlic oil Exempt - 25(b) pesticide
Bug-N-Sluggo Insect, Slug and Snail Bait iron phosphate and spinosad 67702-24-70051
Cedar Gard cedar oil Exempt - 25(b) pesticide
Deliver Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. kurstaki 70051-69
DES-X insecticidal soap 67702-22-70051
DiPel DF Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. kurstaki 73049-39
Ecotec rosemary and peppermint oil Exempt - 25(b) pesticide
Ecozin Plus azadirachtin 5481-559
Entrust spinosad 62719-282
Entrust SC spinosad 62719-621
Envirepel 20 garlic juice Exempt - 25(b) pesticide
GC-Mite cottonseed, clove and garlic oils Exempt - 25(b) pesticide
Garlic Barrier AG garlic juice Exempt - 25(b) pesticide
Glacial Spray Fluid mineral oil 34704-849
Grandevo Chromobacterium subtsugae str. PRAA4-1 84059-17
GrasRoots cinnamon oil Exempt - 25(b) pesticide
Javelin WG Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. kurstaki 70051-66
M-Pede potassium salts of fatty acids 10163-324
Molt-X azadirachtin 68539-11
Neemix 4.5 azadirachtin 70051-9
Nuke Em citric acid Exempt - 25(b) pesticide
Oleotrol-I soybean oil Exempt - 25(b) pesticide
Omni Supreme Spray mineral oil 5905-368
2016
Table 16.1 Insecticides and Molluscides

Organic JMS Stylet-Oil paraffinic oil 65564-1
Organocide 3-in-1 sesame oil Exempt - 25(b) pesticide
PFR-97 20% WDG Isaria fumosorosea Apopka str. 97 70051-19
Preferal Isaria fumosorosea Apopka str. 97 70051-19-67690
PureSpray Green petroleum oil 69526-9
PyGanic EC 1.4II pyrethrin 1021-1771
PyGanic EC 5.0 II pyrethrin 1021-1772
Safer Brand #567 Pyrethrin & pyrethrins + potassium salts of fatty acids 59913-9
Insecticidal Soap Concentrate II
Sil-Matrix potassium silicate 82100-1
Sluggo AG iron phosphate 67702-3-54705
Sluggo Slug and Snail Bait iron phosphate 67702-3-70051
SuffOil-X mineral oil 48813-1-68539
Trilogy neem oil 70051-2
TriTek mineral oil 48813-1
XenTari Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. aizawai 73049-40
Table 16.2 Fungicides and Nematicides

Actinovate AG Streptomyces lydicus WYEC 108) 73314-1
Actinovate STP Fungicide Streptomyces lydicus WYEC 108 73314-4
Agricure potassium bicarbonate 70870-1
AzaGuard Azadirachtin 70299-17
Badge X2 copper oxychloride, copper hydroxide 80289-12
Basic Copper 53 basic copper sulfate 45002-8
BIO-TAM Trichoderma asperellum, Trichoderma gamsii 80289-9-69592
BIO-TAM 2.0 Trichoderma asperellum, Trichoderma gamsii 80289-9
ChampION++ copper hydroxide 55146-115
Contans WG Coniothyrium minitans 72444-1
Cueva Fungicide Concentrate copper octanoate 67702-2-70051
DiTera DF Myrothecium verrucaria str. AARC-0255 73049-67
Double Nickel 55 Biofungicide Bacillus amyloliquefaciens str. D747 70051-108
Double Nickel LC Biofungicide Bacillus amyloliquefaciens str. D747 70051-107
Ecozin Plus azadirachtin 5481-559
*GreenClean PRO sodium carbonate peroxyhydrate 70299-15
MeloCon WG Biological Nematicide Paecilomyces lilacinus str. 251 72444-2
MilStop potassium bicarbonate 70870-1-68539
Mycostop Biofungicide Streptomyces griseoviridis 64137-5
Mycostop Mix Streptomyces griseoviridis 64137-9
Nordox 75 WG copper hydroxide 48142-4
Nu-Cop 50DF cupric hydroxide 45002-4
Nu-Cop 50 WP cupric hydroxide 45002-7
Nu-Cop HB cupric hydroxide 42750-132
Optiva Bacillus subtilis str. QST 713 69592-26
Organic JMS Stylet Oil paraffinic oil 65564-1
Organocide 3-in-1 sesame oil Exempt 25(b) pesticide
OxiDate 2.0 hydrogen dioxide, peroxyacetic acid 70299-12
PERpose Plus hydrogen peroxide/dioxide 86729-1
Prestop Biofungicide Gliocladium catenulatum str. J1446 64137-11
Regalia Biofungicide Reynoutria sachalinensis 84059-3
RootShield WP Trichoderma harzianum Rifai str. KRL-AG2 68539-7
RootShield PLUS+ WP Trichoderma harzianum str. T-22, Trichoderma 68539-9
2016
Table 16.2 Fungicides and Nematicides

virens str. G-41
RootShield Granules Trichoderma harzianum str. T-22 68539-3
RootShield PLUS+ Granules Trichoderma harzianum str. T-22, Trichoderma 68539-10
virens str. G-41
Serenade ASO Bacillus subtilis str QST 713 69592-12 and 264-1152
Serenade MAX Bacillus subtilis str QST 713 69592-11 and 264-1151
Serenade Opti Bacillus subtilis str. QST 713 264-1160
Serenade SOIL Bacillus subtilis str QST 713 69592-12 and 264-1152
SoilGard Gliocladium virens 70051-3
Taegro Biofungicide Bacillus subtilis var. amyloliquefaciens str. 70127-5
FZB24
Taegro ECO Bacillus subtilis var. amyloliquefaciens str. 70127-5-100
FZB24
TerraClean 5.0 hydrogen dioxide, peroxyacetic acid 70299-13
Trilogy neem oil 70051-2
* Restricted-use pesticide in New York State; may be purchased and used only by certified applicators
Table 13.4 Sanitizers mentioned in this publication

TRADE NAME COMMON NAME EPA REG. NO.
CDG Solution 3000 chlorine dioxide 75757-2
Enviroguard Sanitizer hydrogen peroxide/peroxyacetic acid 63838-1-527
Oxine chlorine dioxide 9804-1
Oxonia Active hydrogen peroxide/peroxyacetic acid 1677-129
Peraclean 5 hydrogen peroxide/peroxyacetic acid 54289-3
Peraclean 15 hydrogen peroxide/peroxyacetic acid 54289-4
Perasan A Peroxy acetic acid/hydrogen peroxide 63838-1
Per-Ox Peroxy acetic acid/hydrogen peroxide 833-4
Pro Oxine chlorine dioxide 9804-9
SaniDate 5.0 hydrogen peroxide/peroxyacetic acid 70299-19
SaniDate 12.0 hydrogen peroxide/peroxyacetic acid 70299-18
San-I-King No. 451 sodium hypochlorite 2686-20001
Shield-Brite PAA 5.0 Peroxy acetic acid/hydrogen peroxide 70299-19-64864
Shield-Brite PAA 12.0 hydrogen peroxide/peroxyacetic acid 70299-18-64864
StorOx 2.0 hydrogen peroxide/peroxyacetic acid 70299-7
Tsunami 100 hydrogen peroxide/peroxyacetic acid 1677-164
Victory hydrogen peroxide/peroxyacetic acid 1677-186
VigorOx 15 F & V hydrogen peroxide/peroxyacetic acid 65402-3
VigorOx LS-15 hydrogen peroxide/peroxyacetic acid 65402-3
Abbreviations Used in This Publication
A acre NI no information
ASO aqueous suspension-organic NOP National Organic Program
EC emulsifiable concentrate OMRI Organic Materials Review Institute
G granular P phosphorus
HC high concentrate REI restricted-entry interval
K potassium WP wettable powder
L liquid WPS Worker Protection Standard
N nitrogen WG, WDG water dispersible granular
2016
17. REFERENCES AND RESOURCES

Links checked May 1, 2016
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2016
20 Rodale Institute. Kutztown, PA. (http://www.rodaleinstitute.org/).

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Cover Crops, Soil Health and Nutrition

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31 The Pennsylvania State University, Agricultural Analytical Services Laboratory. (http://aasl.psu.edu).
32 Agro-One Services, Dairy One Cooperative, Ithaca, NY. (http://dairyone.com/analytical-services/agronomy-services/soil-testing/ ).
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Weed Management
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2016
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Calibration
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2016
58 Koike, S. T. and Davis, R. M. (2012) UC IPM Pest Management Guidelines: Lettuce: Lettuce Drop. UC ANR Publication 3450. Statewide
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Managing Nematodes
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Managing Lettuce Insects
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2016
80 Wilsey, W.T., Weeden, C.R., Shelton, A.M. (updated 2007). Cornell University. Pests in the Northeastern United States. Slugs Life Cycle.
(http://web.entomology.cornell.edu/shelton/veg-insects-ne/pests/slugs.html ).
This guide is published by the New York State Integrated Pest Management Program, which is funded through Cornell University, Cornell Cooperative
Extension, the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, and USDA-NIFA.
Cornell Cooperative Extension provides equal program and employment opportunities. NYS IPM Publication number 136. June 2016
www.nysipm.cornell.edu.
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2016

Organic Production and IPM Guide for

NYS IPM Publication No. 136

Integrated Pest Management

Contributors and Resources

Editing for the 2016 update

11.5 Downy Mildew, Bremia lactucae .......................................................................................................................................... 33

T his guide for organic production of lettuce provides an

Table 4.2.2 Potential Interactions of Crops Grown in Rotation with Lettuce

4.3 Pest History populations in heavily infested fields or minimize their

Table 6.1 Disease Resistance in Lettuce Varieties.

Variety Name (days to harvest) Type Comments

Table 6.1 Disease Resistance in Lettuce Varieties.

Table 6.1 Disease Resistance in Lettuce Varieties.

Forte red Oakleaf X

Table 6.1 Disease Resistance in Lettuce Varieties.

Claremont (28-46) Cos X Baby or mature

Table 6.1 Disease Resistance in Lettuce Varieties.

Level shown in Not low med high low med high

pesticide. At the time of publication, the pesticides

11.1 Anthracnose, Microdochium panattonianum

Resistant varieties Anthracnose affects most lettuce varieties.

Table 11.1 Pesticides for Management of Anthracnose

11.2 Botrytis Gray Mold, Botrytis cinerea

Resistant varieties Resistant varieties are not known.

Seed This fungus is not seed-borne.

Management Option Recommendation for Gray Mold

Postharvest Plow under debris after harvest.

Table 11.2 Pesticides for Management of Botrytis Gray Mold

11.3 Bottom Rot and Wirestem, Rhizoctonia solani

Seed selection This disease is not seed-borne.

Management Option Recommendation for Bottom Rot and Wirestem

Table 11.3 Pesticides for Management of Bottom Rot

Serenade Soil1 (Bacillus subtilis str 2-6 qt/acre soil drench 0 4 ?

11.4 Damping-off, Pythium spp., Rhizoctonia solani

Resistant varieties Resistant varieties are not known.

Table 11.4 Pesticides for Management of Damping-off

11.5 Downy Mildew, Bremia lactucae

Management Option Recommendation for Downy Mildew

Seed selection This fungus is not seed-borne.

Table 11.5 Pesticides for Management of Downy Mildew

Serenade ASO1 (Bacillus 2-6 qt/acre 0 4 ?

Serenade MAX1 (Bacillus 1-3 lb/acre 0 4 ?

11.6 Drop, Sclerotinia sclerotiorum, Sclerotinia minor

Management Option Recommendation for Drop

Table 11.6 Pesticides for Management of Drop

Serenade Soil1 (Bacillus subtilis 2-6 qt/acre Soil 0 4 ?

Management Option Recommendations for Aster Yellows

Seed selection Aster yellows phytoplasma is not seed-borne.

Management Option Recommendations for Aster Yellows

Management Option Recommendations for Viruses

Resistant varieties LMV: See resistant varieties in Section 6.

Management Option Recommendations for Viruses

Molt-X ( azadirachtin) 15 oz/acre 0 4 ?

13. NONPATHOGENIC DISORDERS

levels of pest damage and a familiarity with allowable control

14.1 Aphids primarily Green Peach Aphid, Myzus persicae

Resistant varieties Resistant varieties are not available.

AzaGuard ( azadirachtin) 10-16 fl oz/acre 0 4 1 Azadirachtin based products effective in 4/7