A new invasive insect pest of onion and its relatives, known as the Allium leafminer, is infesting farms throughout the northeastern US, and growers are concerned about its impact on their billion dollar industry.
Researchers at Cornell University received funding from the Foundation for Food and Agriculture Research and the New York Farm Viability Institute to identify immediate solutions for managing Allium leafminer before it spreads much further. Field research trials are currently underway and also planned for this fall.
Implementation of a successful management strategy should maintain profitability and sustainability of onion production on both organic and conventional farms.
– Brian Nault, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Cornell University