Peter Jentsch
Senior Extension Associate
pjj5@cornell.edu

Research Links

Areas of Expertise

Research and extension on arthropod pests of pome fruit, vegetables and grape in Eastern NY.

Research

Our research efforts on pome fruit, onion and grape, has been to study the efficacy of newly developed pest management tools, employing them in a cost-effective, environmentally sound manner. We continue to study the impact on fruit production of employing a non-organophosphate pest management tools on standard commercial pome fruit varieties. We are increasing our efforts in evaluating cultivars with disease resistant traits with the intention of increasing agricultural sustainability by reducing chemical inputs. We are furthering our studies on the development of optimum timing and use of insecticide rate reductions, while developing insecticide resistance management strategies specific to the spectrum of pest and beneficial insect complexes. We continue to test a variety of alternative control technologies for insect pest management including the use of reduced risk and organic alternatives, exclusion netting and augmentation of predatory arthropods to manage insect pests. In cooperation with the laboratory plant pathologist, we are evaluating the development of transitional organic management tactics in apple and pear production for both insect and disease management.

Extension and Outreach

Our goal in extension outreach is to continually improve the venues of communication to fruit growers regarding the continually changing knowledge base so as to improve on farm insect pest management strategies. In conjunction with the Hudson Valley Regional Fruit Program Extension Agent, we are employing digital and web based communication technologies to broadcast concise text and video to highlight timely issues of insect development. We continue to reach stakeholders using traditional newsletters, formal fruit schools and informal field workshops and presentations throughout the growing season. We have and continue to educate farm managers in the use of the biological control agent T. pyri, to provide phytophagous mite control while reducing the need for yearly miticide applications.

Publications

• Rosenberger, D.A., Jentsch, P.J., Meyer,  F.W., and Rugh, A.L. 2008. Effects of oil sprays on development of  Fabraea leaf spot in pears.   Plant Disease Management Reports (online). The American Phytopathological Society, St. Paul, MN.